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PetDosageChart

Cytopoint (Lokivetmab) Dosage for Dogs

Monoclonal antibody (anti-IL-31) ⏱ Onset: 1-3 days ⏳ Duration: 4-8 weeks

This dosage information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet. Dosages may vary based on your pet's health conditions, other medications, and individual factors.

Content reviewed by licensed veterinarians. This information is sourced from veterinary drug references including Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook and the Merck Veterinary Manual.

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Cytopoint Dosage Chart for Dogs by Weight

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Weight Low Dose Standard Dose Max Dose Frequency
5 lbs (2.3 kg) 2.5mg 2.5mg 2.5mg Once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
10 lbs (4.5 kg) 4.5mg 4.5mg 4.5mg Once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
15 lbs (6.8 kg) 7mg 7mg 7mg Once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
20 lbs (9.1 kg) 9mg 9mg 9mg Once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
25 lbs (11.3 kg) 11.5mg 11.5mg 11.5mg Once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
30 lbs (13.6 kg) 13.5mg 13.5mg 13.5mg Once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
40 lbs (18.1 kg) 18mg 18mg 18mg Once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
50 lbs (22.7 kg) 22.5mg 22.5mg 22.5mg Once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
60 lbs (27.2 kg) 27mg 27mg 27mg Once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
70 lbs (31.7 kg) 31.5mg 31.5mg 31.5mg Once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
80 lbs (36.3 kg) 36.5mg 36.5mg 36.5mg Once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
90 lbs (40.8 kg) 41mg 41mg 41mg Once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
100 lbs (45.4 kg) 45.5mg 45.5mg 45.5mg Once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
120 lbs (54.4 kg) 54.5mg 54.5mg 54.5mg Once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
150 lbs (68 kg) 68mg 68mg 68mg Once monthly (injection by veterinarian)

What is Cytopoint (Lokivetmab) used for in dogs?

Allergic dermatitis Atopic dermatitis Chronic itching Environmental allergies

How to give Cytopoint to your dog

Cytopoint is administered as a subcutaneous injection by your veterinarian only. It cannot be given at home. The injection is based on your dog's body weight and is typically well-tolerated with minimal discomfort. Schedule monthly vet visits for ongoing treatment. No special preparation is needed before the appointment. Your dog can eat and exercise normally before and after the injection.

Available Forms

Injectable

Give with Food?

No — can be given without food

Side effects of Cytopoint in dogs

Common side effects

Injection site reactions
Lethargy (transient)
Mild vomiting
Decreased appetite (temporary)

Serious side effects

  • Anaphylactic reaction (very rare)
  • Facial swelling
  • Severe lethargy
  • Recurring infections due to immune modulation

When to call the vet

Call your vet immediately if your dog shows any of these signs:

  • Facial swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing after injection
  • Severe lethargy lasting more than 48 hours post-injection
  • Vomiting or diarrhea developing after injection
  • Signs of infection (fever, swelling, discharge) at the injection site
  • Itching returns significantly before the next scheduled injection

Related Medications for Dogs

Monoclonal antibody (anti-NGF)

Librela

Bedinvetmab

For Osteoarthritis pain

View dosage chart
Antihistamine (second-generation)

Zyrtec

Cetirizine

For allergies

View dosage chart
Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor

Apoquel

Oclacitinib

For atopic dermatitis

View dosage chart
Antihistamine (second-generation)

Claritin

Loratadine

For allergies

View dosage chart

Sources & References

The dosage information on this page is compiled from the following veterinary and pharmaceutical references:

  • Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook — the standard veterinary pharmacology reference used by veterinarians worldwide.
  • Merck Veterinary Manual — a trusted, peer-reviewed resource for veterinary professionals and pet owners.
  • DailyMed (FDA Drug Labels) — official FDA-approved drug labeling and prescribing information for Lokivetmab.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Cytopoint work differently from Apoquel?
Cytopoint is a monoclonal antibody that specifically targets and neutralizes IL-31, the key itch-signaling cytokine. Unlike Apoquel (a JAK inhibitor that broadly suppresses immune pathways), Cytopoint works like a targeted missile against itch signals without broadly suppressing the immune system. This gives it a very favorable safety profile.
How quickly does Cytopoint start working?
Most dogs experience significant itch relief within 1-3 days of the injection. Some owners report improvement within 24 hours. The effect typically lasts 4-8 weeks, with most dogs needing monthly injections.
Can Cytopoint be used long-term?
Yes, Cytopoint has an excellent long-term safety profile. Since it is a targeted antibody rather than a broad immunosuppressant, it does not carry the same risks as long-term steroid or Apoquel use. Many dogs receive monthly injections for years with continued efficacy.
Can my dog get Cytopoint at home?
No, Cytopoint must be administered as a subcutaneous injection by a veterinarian. It is not available for home administration. You will need to schedule monthly vet visits or align injections with other routine appointments.
What if Cytopoint doesn't seem to last a full month?
Some dogs metabolize the antibody faster and may need injections every 4-6 weeks rather than every 8 weeks. Discuss with your vet if the effects wear off early — they may adjust the schedule or combine Cytopoint with other therapies for better control.

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