Caninized monoclonal antibody that specifically targets and neutralizes canine interleukin-31 (IL-31), a key cytokine mediating pruritus in atopic dermatitis
At a glance
Class
Caninized monoclonal antibody (anti-IL-31)
Storage
Refrigerate 2–8°C; do not freeze; protect from light; use within 8 hours once at room temperature
Dosing
Canine atopic dermatitis (pruritus control)
Frequency
Monthly (every 4–8 weeks)
Duration: Long-term; onset within 1 day, duration 4–8 weeks
Not approved for cats
Duration: Not approved; felinized anti-IL-31 under development
Safety
Absolute contraindications — do not use
Adverse effects
Common
Injection site reactions (transient)
Lethargy (transient)
Serious
Anaphylaxis (very rare)
Anti-drug antibody formation (can reduce efficacy)
Pruritus visual analogue scale (PVAS)Injection site reactionFrequency of itch episodesDuration of effect between doses
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Lokivetmab?
Lokivetmab is a caninized monoclonal antibody (anti-il-31) used in pets. Caninized monoclonal antibody that specifically targets and neutralizes canine interleukin-31 (IL-31), a key cytokine mediating pruritus in atopic dermatitis
›What is Lokivetmab used for in pets?
Lokivetmab is used in veterinary medicine for: Canine atopic dermatitis (pruritus control); Not approved for cats.
›What is the Lokivetmab dose for dogs?
For dogs, Lokivetmab is typically dosed as follows — Canine atopic dermatitis (pruritus control): 1–2 mg/kg SC Monthly (every 4–8 weeks). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Lokivetmab dose for cats?
For cats, Lokivetmab is typically dosed as follows — Not approved for cats: 0 mg/kg N/A. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Lokivetmab?
Common: Injection site reactions (transient), Lethargy (transient). Serious (call your vet immediately): Anaphylaxis (very rare), Anti-drug antibody formation (can reduce efficacy).
›Does Lokivetmab need a prescription?
Yes. Lokivetmab is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
›When should Lokivetmab not be used?
Do not use Lokivetmab if: Known hypersensitivity to lokivetmab.
References
CDSCO approvals (India) — 1
1)Lokivetmab solution for injection 10mg /ml 2)lokivetmab solution for injection
M/s Zoetis India Ltd, · Approved 21.07.2023
Treatment of clinical manifestations of atopic dermatitis in dogs. Treatment of pruritus associated with allergic dermat
Source: CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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