Cytopoint Injection
for Dog Atopic Dermatitis
A monthly injection that targets itch at the source. No tablets, no immune suppression. Compare vet prices using VetCost to find the best deal near you.
Buy Cytopoint at UK pharmacy prices
UK registered pharmacies dispense the same Cytopoint your vet prescribes, often for less. Ask your vet for a written prescription (capped at £21 under the CMA Order, from 2027), then fill it online.
Affiliate link to The Pharm Pet Co., a UK registered veterinary pharmacy. We may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Always follow your vet's guidance on medication choice and dosing.
What is Cytopoint?
Cytopoint (lokivetmab) is a monoclonal antibody injection manufactured by Zoetis for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (allergic skin disease) in dogs. Unlike Apoquel, which is an oral tablet, Cytopoint is administered as a subcutaneous injection at the vet practice.
It works by specifically targeting and neutralising interleukin-31 (IL-31), a key cytokine that triggers the itch sensation in allergic dogs. By neutralising IL-31 before it reaches the itch receptors in the brain, Cytopoint stops the itch cycle at source. Most dogs show improvement within 1-3 days of the injection.
Because Cytopoint is a biological therapy (similar to human treatments like adalimumab), it works very specifically without broadly suppressing the immune system. This makes it one of the safest long-term allergy treatments available for dogs, though the cost is higher than alternatives like Apoquel or steroids.
Single injection at the vet — no daily pills to give
Each injection lasts 4-8 weeks depending on the dog
Blocks IL-31 specifically — no broad immune suppression
Cytopoint Injection Prices
Cytopoint is vet-administered only. Prices vary significantly between practices — always compare.
Small dog (3-10 kg) — 10 mg
Medium dog (10-20 kg) — 20 mg
Large dog (20-40 kg) — 30-40 mg
Giant dog (40+ kg) — 40+ mg
Cannot buy online: Unlike tablets, Cytopoint must be administered by a vet and cannot be purchased for home use. The best way to save money is to compare injection prices between local vet practices using VetCost, or ask about package deals for multiple injections.
Side Effects & Warnings
Cytopoint has one of the best safety profiles of any allergy medication for dogs. Because it specifically targets IL-31 without broadly suppressing the immune system, side effects are rare and generally mild.
Reported Side Effects
- • Mild lethargy for 24-48 hours (uncommon)
- • Vomiting within first day (rare)
- • Injection site reaction (very rare)
- • Anaphylaxis (extremely rare)
Advantages over Apoquel
- • Does not suppress the immune system
- • No increased infection or tumour risk
- • Safe for puppies from 8 weeks
- • Can use alongside other medications safely
Alternatives to Cytopoint
Apoquel (Oclacitinib)
Daily tablet, works within 4 hours. Can be purchased online with a prescription, making it cheaper per month than Cytopoint for most dogs. However, partially suppresses the immune system. See our Apoquel guide.
Prednisolone (Steroids)
Very cheap and effective but causes significant side effects with long-term use. Best for short-term flare-ups. Costs just £5-£15/month vs £60-£120 for Cytopoint.
Immunotherapy (Desensitisation)
Allergy testing followed by personalised vaccine injections. Aims to cure the underlying allergy over 6-12 months. Success rate around 60-70%. Costs £500-£1,000 for the course but could eliminate the need for ongoing medication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cytopoint costs £60-£120 per injection depending on dog size. Annual costs are £720-£1,440. Compare prices between vet practices as they vary significantly.
Typically 4-8 weeks. Most dogs need monthly injections. Some dogs get 6-8 weeks of relief per injection.
Cytopoint does not suppress the immune system, making it potentially safer long-term. Apoquel works faster and can be bought online to save money. Both are effective. Discuss with your vet.
Very few. Mild lethargy or vomiting may occur within 24-48 hours. It is one of the safest long-term allergy treatments as it does not suppress the immune system.
No. Cytopoint must be administered by a vet. It cannot be dispensed for home use. Compare vet prices using VetCost to find the best deal.
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Compare vet prices for Cytopoint
Cytopoint prices vary hugely between vet practices. Search your area to find the best deal.