Author TB Thompson DVM has been a licensed, practicing veterinarian since 2000.
Is your dog constantly scratching himself, making both of you miserable?
As a veterinarian, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges dog allergies present. Thankfully, we have many ways to help our dogs feel better. This article explores Cytopoint® and Apoquel®, two common treatments, to help you understand their differences.
You should discuss these options with your own veterinarian to choose the best option for your unique pet.
KEY POINTS
- Cytopoint and Apoquel both reduce itching by decreasing the effects of specific substances in the body.
- Cytopoint is given by injection every 4-8 weeks. Apoquel is given orally as a tablet or chew daily.
- Each of these has benefits that may suit some dogs better so consult your veterinarian before deciding which to use.
Understanding Dog Skin Allergies
First, let’s make sure we all understand skin allergies in dogs on a basic level.
Skin allergies in dogs are caused by an overreaction of the immune system. They are often triggered by environmental substances like pollen and dust. Allergies cause symptoms like scratching, redness, and secondary bacterial infection.
While recognizing symptoms is a first step, a veterinarian’s diagnosis is essential to choose the right treatment.
Introduction to Cytopoint and Apoquel
In the fight against dog skin allergies, Cytopoint and Apoquel stand out as very helpful new solutions.
Cytopoint (lokivetmab) is an injectable treatment that neutralizes a key itch-inducing protein, offering relief for weeks at a time. Apoquel (oclacitinib) is a daily oral medication that works by suppressing certain pathways in the immune system to reduce itching. They are similar in many ways but have some key differences.
Quick Comparison: Cytopoint vs. Apoquel
| Cytopoint | Apoquel | |
|---|---|---|
| Treatment Type | Injectable antibody therapy | Oral medication |
| Action | Targets and neutralizes interleukin-31 (IL-31) | Inhibits Janus kinase enzymes |
| Duration of Effect | Effects last between 4 to 8 weeks per injection | Requires daily administration |
| Ideal Use | Best for dogs with seasonal allergies or those adverse to pills | Suitable for dogs with year-round symptoms or those requiring flexible dosing |
| Food Allergy Treatment | Not effective as sole therapy | Not effective as sole therapy |
| Side Effects | Minimal; mainly related to injection site reactions | Not common but may include gastrointestinal and liver issues. Don’t use: under 1 yr old, pregnancy, demodectic mange and cancer |
| Ease of Administration | Requires vet visits for injections (less frequent) | Administered at home (daily) |
How These Treatments Work for Dog Allergies
Both Apoquel and Cytopoint work on the biochemical itch pathyway, but they go about it in slightly different ways.
First, you need to know a bit about what causes dogs to feel itchy.
While various factors contribute to the itch sensation, a protein called interleukin-31 (IL-31) plays a critical role. In healthy dogs, IL-31 helps the immune system fight off invaders. In dogs with allergies, the immune system overreacts to harmless substances like pollen, leading to excessive IL-31 production and ultimately, itchy skin.
Cytopoint Binds IL-31
This injectable medication acts like a highly specific antibody.
Cytopoint binds directly to IL-31 molecules, preventing them from interacting with cells and triggering the itch signal. This targeted approach provides rapid relief (within hours) that can last 4-8 weeks, making it convenient for busy pet owners.
Apoquel Inhibits JAK Enzymes
This daily oral medication works upstream in the itch pathway.
Apoquel inhibits the activity of specific Janus kinase (JAK) enzymes within cells. These enzymes play a role in various processes, including IL-31 production. By hindering the function of JAK enzymes, Apoquel reduces the overall production of “itch chemicals.”
It provides fast symptom relief–often within hours. However, it requires daily administration for ongoing control.
Which One Is Best?
Both Apoquel and Cytopoint work well for many dogs. However, each has its strengths and weaknesses. You might decide to try each one at different times to see which works best for your doggo.
Let’s talk about some considerations to discuss with your veterinarian.
When to Choose Cytopoint
Because it is given by your veterinarian as an injection, Cytopoint works well for dogs who won’t take pills. It can also work in cases of dogs with very sensitive stomachs who can’t tolerate Apoquel.
However, it’s important to note that Cytopoint might not work for every dog. While many see significant improvement, a small number may not respond to the treatment as expected. Additionally, some dogs initially respond well to Cytopoint but could stop responding over time.
These variations highlight the importance of monitoring your pet’s reaction to the treatment. Maintain open communication with your veterinarian to adjust the care plan as needed.
When to Choose Apoquel
One limitation of Cytopoint is that its effects only last about 4-8 weeks. That means you’ll need to return to the veterinary clinic if your dog needs another shot. Apoquel, on the other hand, is given daily as a pill allowing longer spans between trips to the clinic.
Apoquel is ideal for dogs with persistent, year-round allergies. It offers flexible daily dosing that can be adjusted according to the severity of the symptoms.
However, it’s important to consider Apoquel’s limitations. It can cause gastrointestinal issues and should be avoided in dogs with cancer.
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My Dog’s Allergy Treatment Journey
Managing my dog’s skin allergies has indeed been a journey. My boy’s skin allergy symptoms have worsened over the years. Initially, Apoquel was our go-to for quick itch relief. Unfortunately, we noticed it sometimes upset his stomach, leading to more frequent vomiting.
In search of a solution that was effective yet gentle on his system, we switched to Cytopoint injections. These have proven to control his symptoms excellently during his allergy season, which thankfully lasts only a few weeks.
This journey illustrates how each dog responds uniquely to treatments. I’ve learned this lesson through both personal and professional experiences. It underscores the importance of collaborating with your vet to tailor treatments to your dog’s specific needs.
Making the Right Choice
Cytopoint and Apoquel are both effective at reducing skin allergies symptoms in dogs (5,6). But each one is suited to certain dogs and certain dog owner preferences. Deciding between Cytopoint and Apoquel boils down to your dog’s specific needs and your lifestyle.
Cytopoint is often best for dogs with short-term allergy symptoms or those who are pill-averse. Apoquel, on the other hand, offers more control for ongoing symptoms with daily dosing at home.
Always consult with your vet to determine the most suitable option for your pet.. Your vet’s guidance is key to choosing the right treatment for your dog’s comfort and health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion
Treating your dog’s skin allergies can be challenging. Understanding the differences between Cytopoint and Apoquel makes it easier to find the right treatment.
Whether you opt for the convenience of Cytopoint’s injections or the flexibility of Apoquel’s oral tablets, the goal is the same: to relieve your dog’s discomfort and improve their quality of life. Discuss both options with your veterinarian to make the best choice for your dog’s specific allergy needs.
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