Cytopoint
General Drug Information and Indications
Caninized monoclonal antibody (lokivetmab) targeting IL-31 for atopic dermatitis and pruritus in dogs; monthly injection.
Monoclonal antibody anti-cytokine therapy (lokivetmab). Mechanism: canine-derived monoclonal antibody that specifically binds and neutralizes interleukin-31 (IL-31) — a key pruritogenic cytokine signaling through JAK1/JAK3 pathway. By blocking IL-31, interrupts itch signal transmission. Monthly subcutaneous injection; sustained-release pharmacokinetics.
Key information
Monoclonal antibody (lokivetmab). Subcutaneous injection only. Refrigerate; do not freeze. Single-use vial. Allow to warm to room temperature before administration. Dogs only. Once monthly dosing.
How to Give this Medication
SQ injection: administer SQ, typically in the dorsal neck or scruff region. Administer once monthly. Ensure correct dose is drawn based on body weight. Store refrigerated (2–8°C); do not freeze. Bring to room temperature before injection (15–20 min). Single-use vial.
If a dose is missed
This product is given as a single dose or as part of a defined protocol. Contact your veterinarian if a scheduled administration was missed. Cytopoint is a monthly injection — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.
Side Effects
Injection site reactions (mild, transient — most common adverse effect). GI: vomiting, diarrhea (uncommon). Upper respiratory signs (uncommon). Lethargy (rare). Generally very well tolerated as a biologic therapy. Anaphylaxis (very rare).
Precautions
For animals
Dogs only — not for use in cats (feline formulation is Solensia/frunevetmab). Do not administer concurrently with other monoclonal antibody therapies without veterinary supervision. Post-marketing reports of neurological signs (ataxia, paresis) — monitor closely, especially in neurologically predisposed patients. Not approved for use in food-producing animals.
For people handling this medication
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Monoclonal antibody — Injectable — administered by veterinary staff only. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. If accidentally self-injected, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Standard injection safety. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. Monoclonal antibody — overdose with a single extra dose is unlikely to cause serious harm, but contact your vet for guidance.
Cytopoint dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CYTOPOINT 10MG INJECTABLE | 10 MG | Injectable | 1 | Commercial |
| CYTOPOINT 30 MG INJECTABLE | 30 MG | Injectable | 1 | Commercial |
| CYTOPOINT 40MG INJECTABLE: CYTOPOINT | 40 MG | Injectable | 1 | Commercial |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com); FDA-approved label (Cytopoint, Zoetis)