VetOnIt clinical notes
Anti-IL-31 antibodies versus JAK inhibitors in allergic dogs
Dr. Jason Pieper on how the anti-IL-31 monoclonal antibodies differ from JAK inhibitors, onset of effect, and why the caninized antibody is for dogs only.
Updated · VetOnIt
Upstream versus downstream
Anti-IL-31 monoclonal antibodies bind the cytokine itself so it never reaches its receptor. They are not an injectable version of a JAK inhibitor: the antibodies act upstream, while JAK inhibitors act further downstream. [1]
Oclacitinib mainly targets JAK1, with JAK3 also listed on its label, and it acts quickly: in a comparison with steroids it was as effective at four hours. [1]
Species and onset for lokivetmab
Lokivetmab is a caninized anti-IL-31 antibody, so it works only in dogs and should not be used in cats. Some improvement is expected the same day, with maximal response taking up to three days. [1]
Related lectures
On-demand lecture
Everyday Dermatology: Practical Approaches to Feline Pruritus, Canine Atopy, Otitis & Pyoderma
View on-demand lecture →References
- Dr. Jason Pieper: Solving Complex Dermatology Cases (lecture recording, Mar 7 2026) VetOnIt lecture transcriptLecture source retained by VetOnIt.