What is lokivetmab?
Lokivetmab (brand name: Cytopoint®) is an immunotherapeutic/biologic medication used to treat dermatitis (skin inflammation) and itchiness, usually due to skin allergies. The medication works by inactivating an inflammatory protein that causes itchiness. Lokivetmab is only used in dogs.
How is lokivetmab given?
- Lokivetmab is given by an injection under the skin, usually at the veterinary clinic.
- If giving at home, follow your veterinarian’s instructions.
- Measure doses carefully and use a new needle and syringe for each dose.
- Dispose of needles in proper sharps disposal containers.
- Do not reuse vials and discard them immediately after use.
- If your dog is given this medication at a vaccination visit, the medication should be injected at a different site on the body than where the vaccines were injected.
This medication should take effect within 1 to 2 days, and improvements in clinical signs should follow.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then wait the recommended time for the next dose, as prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not give the pet two doses at once.
Are there any potential side effects?
Lokivetmab may cause the following side effects:
- Sleepiness
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lack of appetite
- Pain at the injection site
- Skin redness and ear infection (occasionally seen in safety studies)
Serious adverse reactions, although rare, may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving lokivetmab and contact your veterinarian immediately:
- Allergic reaction characterized by facial swelling, hives, difficulty breathing, or collapse
Drug sensitivities can develop over time, with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.
Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This long-acting medication lasts for at least four to eight weeks and may last longer in pets with kidney or liver disease.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
DO NOT USE lokivetmab in:
- Pets that are allergic to it
USE WITH CAUTION in:
- Pets being vaccinated at the same time (the medication should be injected at a different site on the body than where the vaccines were injected)
- Pets that are pregnant or nursing (safety has not yet been established)
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
There are no documented drug interactions for this medication. During the safety study for lokivetmab, the following medications were used at the same time with no apparent adverse effects: parasiticides, antibiotics, antifungals, antidepressants, antiemetics, corticosteroids, NSAIDs, vaccines, immunotherapy, antihistamines, and other antipruritics.
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking.
Is any monitoring needed with this medication?
- Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
- At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.
How do I store lokivetmab?
- Store this medication in the refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 47°F).
- Protect this medication from freezing and direct sunlight.
- Keep the container out of reach of children and pets.
- Do not store used vials.
- Discard vials after use.
What should I do in case of emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms.
