While generally considered safe for kidneys in dogs when used as directed, Apoquel (oclacitinib) can potentially affect kidney function, especially with overdose or in cats, and long-term use warrants monitoring with blood/urine tests for liver and kidney health due to its metabolic pathways, though kidney issues aren't a primary concern in healthy dogs. Significant kidney injury (Acute Kidney Injury or AKI) has been reported in cats accidentally ingesting chewable forms and rarely in dogs with toxicosis, highlighting the need for careful storage and monitoring.

Can Apoquel affect your kidneys?

Cat owners should take note if they also have dogs prescribed chewable Apoquel for allergies because the medicine can result in acute kidney injury in felines, NC State Veterinary Hospital doctors say.

Is Apoquel safe for dogs with kidney disease?

There are no known effects of Apoquel® on organs such as the kidneys and liver. Some dogs have been treated with Apoquel for more than five years without any problem, and we do not expect there will be long-term problems. Dogs taking Apoquel® may have a slightly higher risk of developing bladder infections.

What allergy medicine is hard on the kidneys?

Acute kidney injury (AKI) can be caused by a commonly used over-the-counter and prescription medication, diphenhydramine (Benadryl, McNeil). We do not usually think of this drug as a major source of renal impairment, but it can cause problems in some predisposed patients, including elderly populations.

What are the long-term side effects of Apoquel?

While it effectively treats skin allergies, Apoquel is not intended for long-term treatment. Long-term use of Apoquel may lead to harsh side effects, including immune suppression, which could exacerbate pre-existing cancers or other serious infections.

Concerning Side Effects of Apoquel in Dogs

Can a dog stay on Apoquel for life?

Most commonly, veterinarians recommend that dogs start by taking Apoquel twice daily for 14 days. Your vet may then slowly decrease your dog's dosage for long-term use. The goal is to keep your dog on the lowest effective dosage. Many dogs take the medication for the rest of their lives.

What are the signs of drug-induced kidney damage?

What are the symptoms of kidney damage due to drugs?

• Decreased urine output.
• Swelling of legs, body.
• Fatigue.
• Loss of appetite.
• Vomiting.
• Confusion.
• Shortness of breath.

What medications cause kidney damage in dogs?

Drugs can cause kidney damage; NSAID's, some antibiotics, and heart medications have been incriminated. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID's) can cause renal damage, especially if over dosed.

What to avoid for dogs with kidney issues?

Dogs with kidney disease should avoid eating processed meats, organ meats, nuts, beans, lentils, most dairy products, bread, and sardines. Chicken is safe for dogs with kidney disease. White rice is also safe for dogs with kidney disease.

What can cause rapid kidney failure in dogs?

Causes of Acute Kidney Failure in Dogs

• Human heart medications.
• Overdose of canine medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aminoglycoside antibiotics.
• Antifreeze (often licked up off of garage floor or driveway)
• Grapes and raisins (hidden in other foods or alone)
• Ibuprofen.

What are the five medications that cause kidney damage?

Top 10 Drugs That Cause Kidney Damage

• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, are commonly used for pain relief. ...
• Antibiotics. ...
• Diuretics. ...
• Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) ...
• Antiviral Drugs. ...
• ACE Inhibitors. ...
• Lithium. ...
• Contrast Dye.

What is the first symptom of kidney damage?

Generally, earlier stages are known as 1 to 3. And as kidney disease progresses, you may notice the following symptoms. Nausea and vomiting, muscle cramps, loss of appetite, swelling via feet and ankles, dry, itchy skin, shortness of breath, trouble sleeping, urinating either too much or too little.

Can kidneys recover from medication damage?

The most effective treatment of tenofovir-related acute tubular injury is early drug discontinuation, which enhances resolution of tubular dysfunction. Approximately 50% of patients completely recover kidney function to baseline levels over weeks to months after AKI (16,17).

Can damaged kidneys heal?

Kidney damage is often irreversible, especially chronic damage, but early detection allows for management to slow progression, while acute damage can sometimes reverse; treatments focus on managing underlying causes (like diabetes, high blood pressure) with diet, meds, and lifestyle changes, but severe cases require dialysis or transplant, though new regenerative therapies show promise.

What does stage 1 kidney disease feel like?

In the early stages of kidney disease, you usually don't have noticeable symptoms. As the disease worsens, symptoms may include: A need to pee more often. Tiredness, weakness, low energy level.

How do I stop giving my dog Apoquel?

You can, however, safely stop Apoquel use without tapering dosage. It can be given with or without food, and your dog's weight will determine the exact dose amount. Apoquel doses are usually between . 04-.

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