Cytopoint (lokivetmab) is an injectable treatment for allergic and atopic dermatitis in dogs. Made by Zoetis, it is a monoclonal antibody that targets interleukin-31 (IL-31), the key itch-signalling protein. A single injection provides 4–8 weeks of itch relief for most dogs.

What Does Cytopoint Cost?

  • At your vet: £50–£120 per injection (price varies by dog weight)
  • Online pharmacies: Not available — must be administered by a vet
  • Annual cost (monthly injections): £600–£1,440
  • Annual cost (every 8 weeks): £325–£780

Cytopoint is a vet-administered injection and cannot be bought with a prescription for home use. The injection frequency varies — some dogs get 8 weeks of relief, others only 4.

What Does Cytopoint Treat?

Cytopoint is licensed for the treatment of clinical manifestations of atopic dermatitis in dogs. It rapidly reduces itching, typically within 24 hours, and provides sustained relief. It is particularly useful for dogs with seasonal allergies, food allergies causing skin symptoms, and chronic atopic dermatitis.

How It Works

Lokivetmab is a caninised monoclonal antibody that neutralises IL-31, the main cytokine responsible for sending itch signals to the brain. By blocking IL-31, itching stops without suppressing the immune system. This is a significant advantage over steroids and ciclosporin.

Side Effects

  • Generally very well tolerated with minimal side effects
  • Occasional lethargy for 24–48 hours after injection
  • Rare injection site reactions
  • Very rare vomiting or diarrhoea
  • No significant drug interactions — safe to combine with other medications

Prescription Requirements

Cytopoint is POM-V and must be prescribed and given by a vet. It is a subcutaneous injection.

Cytopoint vs Apoquel

  • Administration: Cytopoint is a vet injection; Apoquel is a daily tablet you give at home
  • Duration: Cytopoint lasts 4–8 weeks; Apoquel must be given daily
  • Cost: Apoquel from online pharmacies (£20–£45/month with prescription) is often cheaper than Cytopoint
  • Side effects: Cytopoint has fewer reported side effects than Apoquel
  • Convenience: Cytopoint wins for owners who cannot give daily tablets

How to Save

  • Compare injection prices: Cytopoint pricing varies significantly between practices — use VetCost to compare
  • Consider Apoquel if suitable: Buying Apoquel from online pharmacies with a written prescription can be 40–70% cheaper than vet prices and may be more economical than Cytopoint
  • Track injection intervals: If your dog gets 6–8 weeks of relief rather than 4, you need fewer injections per year

Last updated: March 2026. Sources: VMD product datasheet, CMA provisional decision (October 2025), VetCost data.