{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Long-term use of lokivetmab in dogs with atopic dermatitis.
{Author}: Kasper B;Zablotski Y;Mueller RS;
{Journal}: Vet Dermatol
{Volume}: 0
{Issue}: 0
{Year}: 2024 Aug 14
{Factor}: 1.867
{DOI}: 10.1111/vde.13286
{Abstract}: <B>BACKGROUND: </B>Lokivetmab, a caninised monoclonal antibody against interleukin (IL)-31, is an effective treatment for the pruritus associated with canine atopic dermatitis (cAD).<BR><B>OBJECTIVE: </B>To investigate the efficacy and safety of lokivetmab during long-term treatment defined as at least three consecutive lokivetmab injections in atopic dogs under field conditions. To assess individual factors influencing treatment outcome and adverse events.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>150 dogs with cAD.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>Medical records of dogs treated with lokivetmab were reviewed, and owners and/or veterinarians were contacted as needed for follow-up. A decrease of the pruritus Visual Analog Scale (PVAS) score by ≥2 or a PVAS score ≤2 after treatment was considered as treatment success. Logistic regression was used to investigate the influence of a variety of factors on outcome: type of cAD (food versus environment), age at first lokivetmab administration, disease chronicity, dosage and/or secondary infection. Any adverse event that occurred during the study period was recorded.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>Lokivetmab reduced the PVAS score with long-term use (p < 0.01); the success rate was 53 of 69 total dogs (77%). The probability of treatment failure decreased with increasing treatment duration. None of the factors investigated influenced the treatment outcome. Twelve dogs of 150 (8%) showed adverse events such as gastrointestinal signs or lethargy.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>Lokivetmab appears to be an effective and safe long-term anti-itch therapy for dogs with cAD.