Apoquel (oclacitinib) starts working to relieve canine itching within 4 hours and provides full control of itching and inflammation within 24 hours. The medication's effects last for about 12 to 24 hours, which is why it is usually administered once or twice daily to manage allergies.

How long does it take Apoquel to kick in?

Apoquel works rapidly, usually within 24 hours, to diminish itching. It is very rare to have GI upsets with Apoquel like we can see with cyclosporine. The antipruritic effects of the Apoquel wear off quickly, within 12-24 hours, so the medication needs to be given daily in most cases.

Why is my dog still itchy on Apoquel?

Increased itching despite Apoquel and allergy injections may indicate a reaction to new food or environmental triggers. Symptoms include redness, scratching, and inflammation. Treatment involves reviewing diet changes, continuing prescribed medications like Apoquel, and possibly adding supplements cautiously.

What is the success rate of Apoquel?

In a clinical trial of dogs with atopic dermatitis, treatment success for pruritus occurred in a significantly greater percentage of the dogs treated with APOQUEL (66 percent) vs. (4 percent) of dogs treated with placebo (p<0.0001).

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.

Apoquel for Dogs

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.

Is Zyrtec better than Apoquel?

Zyrtec (cetirizine) is safer than Apoquel (oclacitinib) for general use in humans, as Apoquel is specifically approved for dogs and lacks human safety data, while Zyrtec has a well-established human safety profile with minimal sedative effects.

What is the best time of day to give your dog Apoquel?

If given once daily, it can be given either morning OR night, depending on when your dog seems most itchy. Ideally, Apoquel® should not be used twice daily over a long period of time, as this may increase the chances for side effects. Are there any side effects of Apoquel®?

What do you do if Apoquel doesn't work?

If Apoquel is not controlling the itching within a week, then there is no point in continuing to administer it. *Infections. Itching often persists despite Apoquel if pyoderma or yeast dermatitis is present. Clinicians should be sure to perform surface cytology to check for the presence of infections.

What stops itching fast for dogs?

For instant itch relief for dogs, try soothing oatmeal baths, applying a baking soda/water paste or coconut oil for localized relief, using pet-safe anti-itch sprays with ingredients like aloe vera or hydrocortisone (consult vet), or regular brushing to remove irritants, but always see a vet for persistent itching to rule out underlying issues like allergies or infections. 

Why is my dog so itchy even 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 is the new anti itch drug for dogs?

Zenrelia is an innovative treatment for canine allergic itch and inflammation that provides fast and effective relief with just once-daily dosing from the very start1.

How often should I bathe my dog with allergies?

Conclusions: Washing the dog reduces recoverable allergen from dog hair and dander. The dog needs to be washed at least twice a week to maintain the reduction in recoverable Can f 1 from its hair.

What vitamins are good for dogs with allergies?

Doggie supplements that address allergy symptoms include vitamin C and omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids can help alleviate inflammation associated with allergies. NaturVet Allergy Aid + Antioxidant Dog Soft Chews are a great way to supplement the antioxidants your pup pal needs to stay allergy symptom-free.

When not to use Apoquel?

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: Do not use APOQUEL in dogs less than 12 months of age or those with serious infections. APOQUEL may increase the chances of developing serious infections, and may cause existing parasitic skin infestations or pre-existing cancers to get worse.

Can a dog have Apoquel for life?

APOQUEL works LONG TERM

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not placed any time restrictions on the use of APOQUEL. This means you can treat your dog with APOQUEL for as long as it takes to appropriately treat your dog.

---