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CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Gigi Davidson, Fear Free,

Medication: Lokivetmab

Medication: Lokivetmab

Your dog has been prescribed lokivetmab to treat atopic dermatitis.

Key points:
• Caninized monoclonal antibody to treat canine atopy.
• Do not use in species other than dogs.
• Do not use in dogs that are pregnant, lactating or to be used for breeding.
• Dosage: single monthly injection.

This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist.

Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian. 

Name, Brand names, Class of drug and Storage

Name
  • Lokivetmab (loe-ke-VET-mab).
Brand name
  • Cytopoint®.
Class of medication
  • Caninized monoclonal antibody.
Storage
  • Store in original package in a refrigerator. Do not freeze.
  • Do not save partial vials.
  • Protect from light.

Why has my dog been prescribed lokivetmab?

Lokivetmab is a monoclonal antibody used to treat atopic dermatitis (atopy) in dogs. The drug inactivates and causes the removal of interleukin (IL) -31 which is a major mediator of pruritus and acute inflammation in canine atopy. This reduces self-trauma and skin inflammation in affected dogs.

How is the drug given?

Lokivetmab is given as a single subcutaneous injection repeated monthly as required. The correct dose should be drawn from the appropriate vial or vials into a single syringe and administered as a single injection. The frequency of treatment may need to be altered according to the individual dog’s response, so you should note when the itching returns after a treatment to best schedule treatments. The vials are single use.

Lokivetmab is useful for dogs needing instant relief from atopy and when oral medication is difficult. Its narrow spectrum of activity means that it is best suited to manage pruritus and mild inflammation in early cases of atopic dermatitis. Broad-spectrum anti-inflammatory agents should be considered in dogs with chronic inflammatory dermatitis and otitis.

Long-term use of lokivetmab should be integrated into a treatment program with skin barrier care, dietary management, allergen specific immunotherapy, and/or topical or systemic antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory treatment according to the needs of each case.

Do not use in dogs less than 3 kg bodyweight. 

Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?

Side-effects are uncommon but include vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, and pain or reaction at the injection site. Approximately 2.5% of dogs will have an allergic reaction to lokivetmab and should not receive subsequent doses. Lokivetmab is not known to interact with any other drugs.

How long will my dog need to receive this medication?

Lokivetmab is given as a monthly injection as required.

How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?

Dispose of any unused lokivetmab safely – don’t flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not save lokivetmab vials for future use or give to other pets.

What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?

Lokivetmab is given as a monthly injection as required. Do not exceed the recommended dose.

My dog is unwell, should I still give the drug?

If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice.

What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?

Lokivetmab should only be given to the dog that it has been prescribed for:

  • Do not give to other pets in the household
  • Do not give to dogs <3 kg (6.6 lbs) in weight
  • Do not use in cats or any species other than dogs
  • If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice.

If accidentally eaten by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center.

Will my dog need to be monitored while on lokivetmab?

No routine tests or examinations have been recommended unless this is indicated for that patient.

Further information

If you have any concerns, further information can be found on the package insert and the following websites:

Europe & UK

USA

Always follow the recommended dosage and contact your veterinary team or pharmacist if you have any questions regarding your dog’s medication.

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