Apoquel and Cytopoint are not the same, though both treat canine allergic itch. Apoquel is a daily, oral JAK inhibitor tablet for dogs over 12 months, providing fast, broad-spectrum relief. Cytopoint is a monthly, injectable monoclonal antibody that targets specific itch proteins, suitable for dogs of all ages.

Which is better, Cytopoint or Apoquel?

Neither Cytopoint nor Apoquel is universally "better"; the best choice depends on the dog's needs, as Cytopoint offers long-lasting injection relief (4-8 weeks) safe for all ages but works slower, while Apoquel (daily oral tablet) provides faster relief but has more potential side effects and age restrictions, making the choice a vet-guided decision based on individual circumstances like age, ease of dosing, and overall health. 

What is the best allergy injection for dogs?

Cytopoint is a small, painless injection that your veterinarian gives under your dog's skin, similar to a vaccination. After the injection, the itch usually is reduced within a few days, and the effect lasts for 4 to 8 weeks.

How long can a dog stay on Cytopoint?

A dog can stay on Cytopoint for extended periods, potentially lifelong, as it's given every 4 to 8 weeks as needed for itch relief, making it suitable for chronic allergies, but the decision and frequency depend on your dog's specific allergy triggers and flare-ups, with your vet determining the best schedule. It's considered safe for long-term use because it's broken down naturally by the body and doesn't burden the liver or kidneys like some drugs, but it's a management tool, not a cure, and continuous monitoring is key. 

How long can a dog stay on Apoquel?

Apoquel is not FDA approved to use twice daily longer than 14 days. The dose range is very strict, I do not recommend going above the recommended dose due to immune suppression, below the range and it doesn't seem to work in most cases. I have seen some mild cases that are managed with lower doses.

Apoquel vs Cytopoint For Dog Allergies: Which one is better?

Why is my dog still itchy after taking Cytopoint?

We often see pet's with allergies who take anti-itch medications like Cytopoint, Apoquel, steroids and Atopica, but their itching has not resolved or has gotten worse. Frequently, this is due to a secondary infection caused by an underlying disease.

What is the generic name for Cytopoint?

Lokivetmab (brand name: Cytopoint®) is an immunotherapeutic/biologic medication used to treat dermatitis (skin inflammation) and itchiness, usually due to skin allergies. The medication works by inactivating an inflammatory protein that causes itchiness. Lokivetmab is only used in dogs.

Is Zyrtec better than Apoquel?

Zyrtec (cetirizine) is safer than Apoquel (oclacitinib) for general use in humans, as Apoquel is specifically approved for dogs and lacks human safety data, while Zyrtec has a well-established human safety profile with minimal sedative effects.

Why is my dog still scratching after Apoquel?

Itching often persists despite Apoquel if pyoderma or yeast dermatitis is present. Clinicians should be sure to perform surface cytology to check for the presence of infections.

What is the best anti itch shot for dogs?

Cytopoint and Apoquel both help to reduce the circulating concentration of the itch-producing cytokine called Interleukin-31. Cytopoint binds to the circulating chemical, knocking it out whilst Apoquel works to reduce its production.

Why are so many dogs on Apoquel?

Apoquel is a widely used medication designed to control itching and inflammation caused by allergic skin diseases in dogs. It has become a popular treatment option due to its fast-acting nature and ability to provide relief without many of the side effects associated with traditional steroids.

How quickly does Apoquel start working?

Apoquel works differently by blocking allergic itch at the source. Fast-Acting Relief: Starts working within 4 hours and controls allergic itch within 24 hours to help stop scratching, licking, and chewing.

Do dogs really need annual vaccinations?

No, dogs don't always need vaccines every year; core vaccines (like DHPP) are often boosted every 1-3 years after the initial puppy series, but some non-core vaccines (like Bordetella, Leptospirosis, Lyme) and Rabies may be annual depending on your dog's lifestyle, location, and local laws, making an annual vet visit crucial to determine the right schedule.

How does Apoquel make a dog feel?

This reduces the cause of itching at a cellular level and blunts the effects of certain inflammatory signals in the body. As a result, allergic dogs that are given Apoquel® do not feel as itchy and scratch less. The skin inflammation caused by allergies is also reduced.

Is Cytopoint safer than Apoquel?

In general, Cytopoint® has fewer potential for side effects than Apoquel®, and that is often a reason to select it as a first choice therapy. However, neither Cytopoint® nor Apoquel® are effective in every dog. Some dogs do not respond to either therapy, or respond initially and then stop responding eventually.

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