Veterinary Wellness Blog

A new approach to an old problem

Allergies are a common complaint in our animals, with up to 15% of dogs suffering from atopic dermatitis.  Treatment focuses on diminishing exposure to allergens (special diets, bathes, HEPA filters), treating secondary skin infections, and altering the immune system so it does not react.  Antihistamines and steroids are the most common methods of changing the immune response, with immunotherapy injections being another option.  However, steroids can be broad spectrum in their effects on the body, so newer medications and modalities are constantly being researched.  There are more specific medications available such as Atopica and Apoquel.  An even newer approach is Cytopoint. Cytopoint is an injection given every 4-8 weeks.  It differs from steroid injections in that it targets specifically itch receptors instead of the immune system at large.  Cytopoint is an antibody against a chemical called cytokine IL-31, which is a chemical that triggers the process of sending itch signals to the brain.  By targeting this signal, it is able to interrupt the itch cycle before it even starts. Cytopoint is a safe medication as it mimics the dog’s own immune system.  It is used and broken down inside of cells into amino acids and peptides.  It is not converted into reactive or toxic metabolites in the body.  It is not metabolized by […]