It is very sad to watch your dog itching all over due to allergies or dermatitis. You have to look for a solution to end your dog’s suffering. If you were looking for a remedy for your dog’s itchy skin and among the many options given you chose Cytopoint but unfortunately, after your dog took Cytopoint, you ended up losing your dog not making his life better. Even though I understand that words are not enough to ease the pain in your heart, receive my condolences for your loss.
So, what is Cytopoint, how does it work, when and how should it be used? This article will answer all those questions and more to be on the safer side in the future.
What Is Cytopoint For Dogs
Cytopoint is a revolutionary new anti-itch therapy for the symptomatic treatment of itch in dogs with allergies. It is a substance that has been synthetically made and injected into the body to alter physiology and function. It mainly targets the immune system. However, unlike the majority of drugs we are acquainted with, Cytopoint is not a chemical. It’s a synthetic monoclonal antibody. Dogs’ Cytopoint is an antibody that attaches to and disables a portion of their immune system. Cytopoint targets a special compound called Interleukin 31 (IL 31). IL 31 is a cytokine. Cytopoint is given as an injection and offers relief to a dog for up to 8 weeks.
How well does it work?
While not every dog responds well to Cytopoint, it works for about 75% of dogs. In some instances, the itch relief is significant and lasts a long time; in other instances, it benefits less significantly and/or may not last as long. The first injection will typically give you a decent idea of how Cytopoint will perform for your dog. There are other treatments that a vet can give to your dog if doesn’t work. Similar to how various allergic people will respond differently to different medications, it is frequently necessary to try several different treatments before deciding which one is best for your dog.
Cytopoint killed my dog
There are several possible explanations as to why Cytopoint might have killed a dog. The administration of the Cytopoint injections improperly or contrary to prescription is one reason. Adverse reactions, and in some instances even death, could result from administering the injections too frequently or at a dose that was too high.
Another option is that the dog may have had an underlying medical issue that went unnoticed before the injections. A pre-existing condition can make a dog more vulnerable to Cytopoint’s side effects could have been the cause of the dog’s death.
It’s also possible that your canine was more sensitive to Cytopoint’s monoclonal antibody active ingredient, which could have led to unfavorable effects.
Finally, it’s also probable that the dog’s condition was simply untreatable by the Cytopoint injections, and as a consequence, the dog passed away.
While Cytopoint has been given FDA approval for use in dogs, it has not been tested in all breeds and different dogs may respond differently to it. Before giving any medication to a dog, it is always advised to contact a veterinarian.
What To Do If Your Dog Died From Cytopoint?
It is never simple to accept, and that’s why I strongly advise you to read through the best course of action before making conclusions.
The first action you should take in the unfortunate case of death following Cytopoint treatment is an autopsy.
This aids in identifying the cause of death because other elements, such as toxic exposure, underlying health issues, or whether Cytopoint was the main reason.
Let’s assume you have proof it is Cytopoint.
You can submit a Cytopoint complaint and send the pharmaceutical company copies of your dog’s medical records and information about the circumstances leading up to its demise.
For more information on reporting severe drug reactions, visit the FDA website.
Can I Administer Cytopoint To My Dog At Home?
No, a veterinarian is required to administer Cytopoint. It is an injectable drug that must be administered subcutaneously and should only be administered by a qualified expert.
Side Effects Of Cytopoint On Dogs
Cytopoint has been shown to reduce allergic itch in our canine and feline companions to a degree of 75–90%, but there may still be some side effects after a Cytopoint injection. Some of the common side effects include;
Allergic Reactions
An allergy to the substance used to produce Cytopoint results in contact dermatitis. Stop using the product right away if you observe any redness, itching, or allergic reactions in your dog. Your canine might develop an itchy rash, open sores, or inflammation where the medicine was applied.
Itching
Despite being a powerful flea medication, Cytopoint can leave your canine with excruciating itching. To find out, you’ll have to give it a shot. Stop using it right away if you do observe your dog scratching or itching.
Breathing Difficulties
Coughing and/or wheezing could have been brought on by Cytopoint if your canine had breathing issues while it was being administered. Try to use a lesser amount, or even cease using it altogether.
A Sore Head
Another side effect that a dog can experience after taking Cytopoint is head soreness. Stop using it immediately after you see this sign.
Is Cytopoint Safe For Dogs Long Term?
According to the Cytopoint website, Cytopoint is a long-lasting, reliable treatment for your canine. When a canine has atopic dermatitis and is itchy, many veterinarians have used Cytopoint. Although this medication lessens the symptoms of allergies in canines, many dogs also experience negative side effects or even fatal conditions.
Does Cytopoint Have Long-Term Side Effects?
Lethargy, tiredness, and self-limiting side effects can occur a few days after injection, but Cytopoint never mentions long-term side effects. Otherwise, Cytopoint has a 75–90% success rate in managing canine allergic itch.
Cytopoint dosage for dogs
Please keep in mind that Cytopoint should only be administered subcutaneously. You should not shake it excessively to prevent foam formation. Administer the entire contents of the vial. You should not guess the dosage to give to your dog as it can lead to fatal outcomes, especially in case of overdose. Here is a Cytopoint dosage chart. Remember to consult your vet if you are not sure about anything.
| Dog’s bodyweight (kg) | Cytopoint strength (mg) |
| 3-10 | 10 |
| 10.1-20 | 20 |
| 20.1-30 | 30 |
| 30.1-40 | 40 |
| 40.1-50 | 50 |
| 50.1-60 | 60 |
| 60.1-70 | 70 |
| 70.1-80 | 80 |
What to consider before giving your dog Cytopoint
As a general guideline, Cytopoint should not be administered to dogs weighing less than 3 kg, while they are pregnant or nursing, or when they are used for breeding. Rare instances of hypersensitivity reactions, including facial edema, urticaria, and anaphylaxis, may develop although it is rare.
Before choosing whether or not to give their dog Cytopoint, dog owners should take into account the breed of their dog. The medication is recommended only for mixed breeds and a few purebreds, such as German shepherds and Rottweilers, according to the Cytopoint website.
Four to six injections are needed to treat a dog with Cytopoint. The foot vein is used to administer the first dosage. The shoulder vein must be used for subsequent dosages.
The dog may be injected into the patient’s front limb if they are not overweight. The back limb may be used to administer the injections if the patient is overweight. To maintain the medication’s effectiveness, daily injections are necessary.
Cytopoint Complaints
Cytopoint has offered hope to many dog owners who have been unable to find a successful treatment for their dogs’ allergies. Nevertheless, there have been some issues with this drug as well. Here, we’ll examine a few of the most prevalent Cytopoint complaints.
The price of Cytopoint is among the most frequently voiced criticisms. It’s one of the most expensive allergy treatments available, costing between $65 and $130 per injection. Additionally, since it must be administered every 4 to 8 weeks, pet owners may find the expenses to be sizable.
Cytopoint adverse effects have also been reported, but they are typically minor and transient. The most frequent ones are lethargy and loss of appetite, along with localized responses at the injection site (redness, swelling, and itching). More severe side effects like seizures or digestive problems have been reported in rare instances, but these seem to be uncommon.
Overall, Cytopoint appears to provide a promising new treatment choice for canine allergies, but it is not without its drawbacks. Consult your veterinarian before deciding on this course of treatment for your dog to go over all possible risks and advantages.
Why Was Cytopoint Discontinued?
There is no mention of Cytopoint being stopped because it is still available and is sometimes used as a standard treatment for dogs with atopic dermatitis. Don’t forget to consult the vet if Cytopoint treatment is appropriate for your dog.
Also, find out from the vet whether or not your canine is currently taking any other medications that could interact negatively with Cytopoint injection.
Cytopoint Lawsuit, Should you sue a vet if this happens?
A veterinarian cannot be held liable for negligence if they provide substandard or poor treatments.
Obtaining fair compensation can be difficult in many situations, but bringing a lawsuit is unquestionably a smart move, particularly if the proof is strong.
However, you should bear in mind that receiving fair compensation is dependent on both your situation and the laws and policies of your nation.
The following proof is required to support your claim against the veterinarian:
- The vet took on the duty of taking care for your dog.
- The procedure did not adhere to professional guidelines.
- Your dog died because of neglect by the vet.
There are attorneys out there who will take on this kind of case for a contingency fee or a portion of the money you will get paid if you win the case.
But in instances of veterinary malpractice, the compensation is typically insufficient to pay the attorneys’ fees. (Unless the case is unique).
As a result, we advise you to weigh your choices, including filing a simple negligence lawsuit or seeking an insurance settlement in small claims court.
What are other (safer) alternatives to Cytopoint?
As always, seek advice from your veterinarian before selecting any of these medications. Below are some of the alternatives to Cytopoint;
Antihistamines (aka Anti-allergy remedies)
You may be familiar with antihistamines like Benadryl (diphenhydramine), Zyrtec (cetrizine), and Claritin. (loratadine).
Typically, these antihistamines are used to help your furry friend manage allergic symptoms, such as itching.
The only drawback is that it might result in hyperactivity or sleepiness.
Note: Make sure you carefully read the label and confirm that it only includes antihistamines because other ingredients, like decongestants, may actually make dogs worse rather than better.
If you’re unsure whether antihistamines are right for your dog, consult an expert veterinarian.
Steroid sprays, gels, and creams
OTC steroid preparations are considered safe to use and have smaller concentrations of active ingredients than prescription steroids.
It is effective in lessening itching, especially those caused by insect bites.
Note: Consult your veterinarian for further diagnosis and treatment if you see no signs of improvement.
Atopica
Another drug that can be used to treat allergic dermatitis in canines is atopica. It works by inhibiting the immune system’s reaction to allergens, which can lessen swelling and itching. Atopica is usually taken once daily and is available in capsule form. Atopica’s adverse effects can include nausea, diarrhea, and appetite loss.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal can relieve itchy skin and irritation thanks to its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing qualities. You can put it in the bath water for your dog or make a paste and apply it straight to their skin.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera has moisturizing and anti-inflammatory qualities that can help relieve itchy skin and encourage recovery. You can either add it to your dog’s water or apply it straight to their skin.
Green tea
Green tea contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help calm irritated skin and lessen inflammation. It can be made and used topically on your dog’s skin or infused into their drinking water.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Polyunsaturated fats of the omega-3 variety have anti-inflammatory and skin-health benefits. They can be a powerful natural substitute to medications for treating allergic itch in canines and are frequently found in fish oil supplements.
Allergen-specific immunotherapy
Allergen-specific immunotherapy entails administering small doses of the allergen that is causing the dog’s symptoms and is also referred to as allergy shots. This can assist the dog’s immune system in developing a tolerance to the allergen over time and lessen allergic responses.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil has moisturizing and anti-inflammatory qualities that can help relieve itchy skin and encourage recovery. You can either add it to your dog’s food or apply it straight to their skin.
Probiotics
Probiotics are healthy microorganisms that reside in your dog’s digestive system. These microorganisms can support your dog’s immune system and lessen allergy reaction-related inflammation. Probiotics are typically harmless for the majority of dogs and can be found in some dog foods and supplements.
FAQs
How Quickly Does Cytopoint Work In Dogs?
Although every dog is different, Cytopoint typically starts to work within 24 hours of administration. For the treatment of canine allergies, Cytopoint is an excellent alternative to immunosuppressants or corticosteroids.
The injection will continue to function for the following four to eight months starting 24 hours after administration. Consult your veterinarian for the recommended dosage and to determine whether your canine is healthy enough to receive a Cytopoint injection.
Can Cytopoint be used in puppies?
Yes, puppies as early as 12 weeks old can safely use Cytopoint. However, depending on the size and maturity of the puppy, the dosage may need to be changed.
Will my dog need to be sedated for the Cytopoint injection?
A Cytopoint injection does not require anesthesia. Usually given beneath the skin, the injection is fast and painless.
How does Cytopoint compare to Apoquel?
Another drug that is often used for treating allergies in dogs is called Apoquel. Both drugs are efficient, but they operate in distinct ways. While Cytopoint targets the particular protein that causes itching and inflammation, Apoquel works by specifically targeting the immune cells implicated in the allergic reaction. Your veterinarian can assist you in choosing the medication that will best meet the specific requirements of your dog.
How can I tell if Cytopoint is working for my dog?
Within the first few days following the injection, you should notice a reduction in scratching and itching if Cytopoint is working for your dog. The skin health of some dogs may also be better, showing less redness and inflammation.
How can I reduce the risk of side effects from Cytopoint?
It’s crucial to administer Cytopoint as prescribed by your veterinarian to minimize the chance of side effects. Any supplements or medications your canine is taking, as well as any underlying medical conditions, should be disclosed to your veterinarian.
Can Cytopoint cause any behavioral changes in dogs?
Although Cytopoint side effects rarely include behavioral changes, some dogs may experience increased thirst or appetite or a drop in activity level after the injection. It’s crucial to let your vet know if your dog exhibits any strange behavior after getting Cytopoint.
How long has Cytopoint been on the market?
The FDA initially endorsed Cytopoint in 2016. Since then, it has gained acceptance as a common atopic dermatitis treatment for dogs.