Cytopoint (lokivetmab) is a targeted injectable treatment for canine atopic dermatitis (environmental allergies). It works by neutralizing a specific immune signal (IL-31) that causes itching, without suppressing the immune system. One injection provides 4–8 weeks of itch relief. It's one of the most popular allergy treatments for dogs because it's safe, effective, and doesn't require daily medication.
The cost of a Cytopoint injection is $30 to $100 per injection, with an average of $65. Most dogs need 6–12 injections per year.
How Much Does Cytopoint Cost?
| Dog Size | Cost Per Injection | Dose | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (under 20 lbs) | $30–$55 | 1 vial | 4–8 weeks |
| Medium (20–40 lbs) | $40–$70 | 1 vial | 4–8 weeks |
| Large (40–80 lbs) | $50–$85 | 1 vial | 4–8 weeks |
| Extra large (80+ lbs) | $60–$100 | 1–2 vials | 4–8 weeks |
Annual Cost of Cytopoint Treatment
| Injections Per Year | Annual Cost Range | When This Applies |
|---|---|---|
| 6 injections (every 8 weeks) | $180–$600 | Mild allergies — seasonal or well-controlled |
| 8 injections (every 6 weeks) | $240–$800 | Moderate allergies — typical for most dogs |
| 10 injections (every 5 weeks) | $300–$1,000 | Severe allergies — year-round symptoms |
| 12 injections (every 4 weeks) | $360–$1,200 | Very severe — maximum frequency |
Cytopoint vs. Other Allergy Treatments
| Factor | Cytopoint (injection) | Apoquel (oral pill) | Immunotherapy (allergy shots) | Steroids (prednisone) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost per month | $30–$100 (per injection, 4–8 weeks) | $50–$100/month | $50–$100/month | $10–$30/month |
| Annual cost | $240–$1,200 | $600–$1,200 | $600–$1,200 | $120–$360 |
| Onset | 1–3 days | 4 hours | 3–6 months | Hours |
| Duration | 4–8 weeks per injection | Daily dosing | Lifelong | While taking |
| Side effects | Minimal — very safe | Immune suppression, GI upset | Minimal (local reactions) | Many: increased drinking/urination, weight gain, liver damage |
| Lab work needed? | No | Yes — every 6–12 months | No | Yes — every 3–6 months |
| Long-term safe? | Yes — very safe long-term | Generally safe with monitoring | Yes — safest long-term | No — not for long-term use |
Cytopoint is the best choice for dogs who: don't tolerate daily pills well, need a safe option for long-term use, have mild-to-moderate allergies, or when owners prefer less frequent treatment. Allergy shots (immunotherapy) are the only treatment that modifies the immune response long-term but take 3–6 months to work. See full allergy treatment cost comparison.
What Is Cytopoint?
Cytopoint (lokivetmab) is a monoclonal antibody — a laboratory-made protein that specifically targets and neutralizes interleukin-31 (IL-31), the immune signal that causes itch in dogs. Because it only targets one specific signal, it doesn't suppress the immune system like steroids or Apoquel. Cytopoint is metabolized and eliminated like a normal protein — it doesn't go through the liver or kidneys, making it safe for dogs with organ issues.
What to Expect at Your Cytopoint Appointment
- •Vet assesses your dog's itch level and skin condition
- •Injection given under the skin (subcutaneous) — takes 5 seconds
- •No sedation needed — most dogs don't feel it
- •You go home immediately — no recovery time
- •Itch relief begins within 1–3 days
- •Effect lasts 4–8 weeks (varies by dog)
- •Return for next injection when itching returns