Indications
- Apoquel is prescribed to manage symptoms of atopic dermatitis, a chronic allergic skin condition in dogs.
- It is effective in relieving itching associated with various allergic skin conditions.
- Apoquel helps manage symptoms such as itching and inflammation in dogs with allergic dermatitis.
- Its use should be under the guidance of a veterinarian, considering the dog’s specific condition and potential side effects.
Dosage and administration
- The recommended starting dose for Apoquel in dogs is 0.4 to 0.6 mg/kg of oclacitinib (the active ingredient) administered orally twice daily.
- After 14 days, the dosage can often be reduced to once daily for maintenance therapy.
- It can be given with or without food.
- Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on the individual dog’s response and the severity of the condition.
- Veterinary guidance is crucial to determine the appropriate dosage and administration based on the dog’s specific health and condition.
Side effects
- Common side effects of Apoquel® include vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, decreased energy (lethargy), and increased thirst. These side effects may resolve on their own.
- More serious side effects can occur, such as serious infections (pneumonia, urinary tract infections, skin infections), demodicosis (skin disease caused by Demodex mites), skin masses (including cysts and skin cancer), cancer (new tumors or worsening of existing ones), aggression, and low white blood cell count.
- Monitoring for infections, cancer, or skin changes is important.
- Contact your veterinarian if you observe trouble breathing, decreased energy or listlessness, skin or haircoat changes, new masses or changes to existing ones, fever, or changes in urination (including accidents, frequency, and bloody urine).
Precautions
- Discuss with your veterinarian your dog’s medications, allergies, medical history and health conditions, pregnancy or nursing status.
- Apoquel is for use in dogs only; do not give it to humans. Keep it away from children and other animals.
- Do not give Apoquel to dogs younger than 12 months old.
- Avoid giving Apoquel to dogs with severe infections.
- Apoquel can increase the risk of infection or new neoplastic conditions in dogs and may worsen existing neoplastic conditions.
- Do not use Apoquel in breeding, pregnant, or nursing dogs.