CytopointⓇ Injection for Dogs: What to Know About the Allergy Shot       

Did you know dogs can have skin allergies? They’re just like us! And like in humans, dog skin allergies can be incredibly irritating. But a relatively new allergy injection for dogs called Cytopoint^Ⓡ promises relief from the itchiness of allergic dermatitis. How does Cytopoint^Ⓡ work, and how safe is it for your pup? Keep reading to find out!

What Is Cytopoint^Ⓡ Injection for Dogs?

Cytopoint^Ⓡ is given as a subcutaneous injection. That means it’s injected just beneath the skin rather than intravenously or intramuscularly. If prescribed, your vet will administer a dose once every 4 – 8 weeks. The size of the dosage depends on your dog’s weight.¹

According to Zoetis, the company behind Cytopoint^Ⓡ, this drug was designed to “target and neutralize one of the main proteins that send itch signals to your dog’s brain.”²  The University of Wisconsin-Madion’s College of Veterinary Care goes into a little more detail, explaining that Cytopoint^Ⓡ uses “engineered antibodies” to supplement the ones produced by your dog’s own immune system.³

To get even more specific, those engineered antibodies are called lokivetmab.¹ It’s a protein created in a lab to bind with IL-31, a chemical messenger that sends signals to your dog’s brain when it’s time to be itchy. Skin allergies like atopic dermatitis cause an excess of IL-31 to be produced, leading to pruritus (the medical term for itchiness).^1,2 By binding with IL-31, lokivetmab prevents it from interacting with the receptors in the brain, thus stopping the itch signals from firing.¹

Cytopoint^Ⓡ Injection for Dogs: Side Effects

It’s natural to be uncertain about any new drug, especially if you’re going to be giving it to your beloved pet. So are there any side effects to be concerned about?

Early clinical trials observed, at worst, that Cytopoint^Ⓡ eventually lost its effectiveness.² More recent research has shown that, while rare, some dogs may experience additional side effects, including:¹

• Pain at the injection site
• Limping
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Low appetite

The most extreme side effects can be triggered by — ironically enough — allergies. If your dog is allergic to Cytopoint^Ⓡ, they could experience severe lethargy, weakness, trouble breathing, facial swelling, or hives.¹ Your vet will likely want to observe your dog after their first injection to see how they react to the drug (that’s why you can’t get Cytopoint^Ⓡ for dogs at home), but keep an eye on them once they return home, too.¹ Any adverse reaction should be reported to your vet immediately.

How Long Can a Dog Stay on Cytopoint^Ⓡ?

Cytopoint^Ⓡ is meant to be administered as needed when symptoms arise.¹ That means, depending on the severity of your dog’s allergies, it could become a lifelong treatment. Your vet will want to schedule a follow-up between 4 and 8 weeks after the first injection.¹ They’ll assess how well the treatment is working and, if necessary, schedule another dose in 4 – 8 weeks’ time.

What Is the Average Cost of a Cytopoint^Ⓡ Injection?

The price per injection will vary depending on your dog’s size and weight. The larger the dog, the higher the dose, and the more expensive it’s likely to be. That said, Barron’s Magazine reports the average annual cost of Cytopoint^Ⓡ ranges from $1,200 – $2,400.³

Does Dog Insurance Cover Cytopoint^Ⓡ Injections?

Yes! Most dog insurance policies will cover qualifying prescriptions recommended by your vet, including Cytopoint^Ⓡ. With a plan from MetLife Pet, you could get reimbursed for this and other qualifying expenses, from the routine to emergency. Find out if pet insurance is worth it for you and your dog, or fetch a free quote to see how much you could be saving on the care your pup deserves!