Dog Atopic Dermatitis New Treatments: Biologics and JAK Inhibitors

New biologic and JAK inhibitor therapies have transformed the management of canine atopic dermatitis, offering superior welfare outcomes.

Key Facts

Lokivetmab (Cytopoint) is a monoclonal antibody targeting IL-31, the primary itch-mediating cytokine in canine atopy.
Oclacitinib (Apoquel) inhibits JAK1 signalling to reduce pruritus and inflammation within 24 hours of dosing.
Both treatments achieve significantly faster and more complete itch control than ciclosporin or steroids alone.
Lokivetmab is administered monthly by injection; oclacitinib is given orally twice daily initially, then once daily.
Long-term safety profiles for both drugs are well-established with over 10 years of post-marketing data.
Neither drug is disease-modifying — they control symptoms without addressing the underlying allergic sensitisation.

Welfare Considerations

The availability of rapidly acting, well-tolerated antipruritic drugs has transformed welfare outcomes for atopic dogs. Dogs that previously spent months suffering itching while awaiting ciclosporin efficacy now experience relief within hours. The welfare imperative to provide prompt itch relief is now achievable without the safety concerns of long-term steroid use. These drugs should be first-line therapy for significantly pruritic atopic dogs, with immunotherapy as the long-term strategy.

What You Can Do

Ask your vet about lokivetmab or oclacitinib if your atopic dog is not well-controlled on current treatment.
Do not rely on steroids alone for long-term atopic management — discuss modern alternatives.
Combine pharmacological control with allergen-specific immunotherapy for the best long-term prognosis.
Monitor for secondary skin infections regularly — atopic dogs are predisposed to Staphylococcal pyoderma.