Yes, Apoquel (oclacitinib) can generally be stopped and restarted without the need for tapering, unlike steroids. It is safe to use intermittently, such as during specific allergy seasons. However, the underlying itchy condition (pruritus) will likely return within hours to days, as the medication does not cure the allergy.

Can you start and stop Apoquel?

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It is safe to stop and start, unlike prednisone that requires a gradual tapering when stopping the medication. Apoquel is safe for long term use all year round, or can be used during a certain season when the pet is suffering from allergies.

What happens if my dog misses a day of Apoquel?

Apoquel is typically prescribed for once daily dosing after an initial two week course of twice daily administration. If a dose is missed and it is less than 12 hours late, go ahead and give the missed dose. If it is within 12 hours of the next dose, skip a dose and resume regular schedule with the next dose.

Do dogs have withdrawal symptoms from Apoquel?

The bad news-after abrupt withdrawal of Apoquel, dogs demonstrate pruritus that is more intense than before they started the drug. This phenomenon has been studied in mice2 and it appears that the intensified pruritus is due to an increase in pruritogenic cytokines and fast peripheral sensitization, Dr. Schick says.

Can Apoquel be used intermittently?

Flexible Apoquel can be used long term to manage chronic itch, or short term to manage intermittent or seasonal itch. Short courses of Apoquel can help reduce allergic itch associated with conditions such as hot spots or ear infections, whilst these are being treated.

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Why is my dog still itchy on Apoquel?

We often see pet's with allergies who take anti-itch medications like Cytopoint, Apoquel, steroids and Atopica, but their itching has not resolved or has gotten worse. Frequently, this is due to a secondary infection caused by an underlying disease.

What can I give my dog for itching instead of Apoquel?

Commonly used to manage mild allergy symptoms in dogs, antihistamines like diphenhydramine or cetirizine can help reduce itching and inflammation caused by allergic reactions. They are available over the counter but should be used under veterinary guidance to ensure proper dosage and safety.

How long can my dog go without Apoquel?

The antipruritic effects of the Apoquel wear off quickly, within 12-24 hours, so the medication needs to be given daily in most cases.

Is Apoquel harmful to dogs long term?

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.

Does Apoquel have to be tapered?

As a therapeutic drug, the medication is given twice a day, typically for 14 days. After 14 days, the medication is given once a day. Apoquel can be given with or without food. The medication can be discontinued without a need to taper.

Why wear gloves with Apoquel?

The reason for the instruction to "wear gloves or wash hands after handling" is due to its potential effects on the immune system. In humans, handling medication like Apoquel without washing hands can lead to unwanted absorption through the skin, which is why it's important to follow these precautions.

Can I give my dog 2 Apoquel a day without?

Apoquel comes in a convenient tablet form and can be administered with or without food. Administration procedures: Apoquel can be given to your dog twice daily for up to 14 days.

Do dogs build up a tolerance to Apoquel?

While there is no strong evidence to suggest dogs build a tolerance to Apoquel, changes in your dog's environment or health may influence the medication's effectiveness.

How does Apoquel make a dog feel?

This reduces the cause of itching at a cellular level and blunts the effects of certain inflammatory signals in the body. As a result, allergic dogs that are given Apoquel® do not feel as itchy and scratch less. The skin inflammation caused by allergies is also reduced.

Can I split Apoquel tablets?

The letters "S", "M" and "L" refer to the different strengths of tablets: "S" is on the 3.6 mg tablets, "M" on the 5.4 mg tablets, and "L" on the 16 mg tablets. The tablets can be divided into equal halves.

Which is safer for dogs, Apoquel or Benadryl?

Apoquel generally acts quickly and specifically targets itching in dogs, while Benadryl might be more accessible but isn't always as effective for severe cases. Potential side effects of Apoquel include vomiting and diarrhea, while Benadryl can cause drowsiness or excitability.

How long is a course of Apoquel for dogs?

Apoquel is typically started as a loading dose: twice daily for up to 14 days, then reduced to a maintenance dose of once daily or as needed, based on your veterinarian's guidance to find the lowest effective dose for long-term management. While some sources suggest it's not meant for long-term use, many dogs use it safely for life, often combined with other therapies, as directed by a vet who monitors for potential immune suppression or side effects, with treatment often stopping once the underlying allergy cause is managed or for seasonal use. 

Can you give Apoquel seasonally?

Apoquel can be used seasonally, or throughout the year. Apoquel can be given with or without food. Apoquel is available in 3.6 mg, 5.4 mg, and 16 mg tablets and is a prescription medication.

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-.

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 worst months for dog allergies?

The worst times of the year for dog allergies depend on your geographical location, but Dr. Hinsperger says May and September are the most common months pet parents notice their dogs' allergy-related symptoms.

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