Apoquel (oclacitinib) is highly effective at reducing itching and inflammation in dogs, often showing noticeable improvements within 4 to 24 hours. You will know it is working if your dog stops scratching, chewing, or biting their skin, allowing inflamed areas to heal and improving their overall comfort.

How do I know if Apoquel is working?

Apoquel takes effect within 1 to 2 days. 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.

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.

How quickly does Apoquel stop itching in dogs?

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.

What is the success rate of Apoquel?

The anti-itch effect was rapid and long-lasting, with owners reporting a mean 29.5% reduction in pruritus in APOQUEL-treated dogs within 24 hours compared to only a 6.5% reduction for placebo-treated dogs. By day 14, the reduction in pruritus was 67% with APOQUEL treatment compared to 3.9% in the placebo-treated dogs.

Concerning Side Effects of Apoquel in Dogs

Can I give my dog two Apoquel a day?

Dosage and Administration: The dose of APOQUEL (oclacitinib maleate) tablets is 0.18 to 0.27 mg oclacitinib/lb (0.4 to 0.6 mg oclacitinib/kg) body weight, administered orally, twice daily for up to 14 days, and then administered once daily for maintenance therapy. APOQUEL may be administered with or without food.

Why is nothing stopping my dog from itching?

Allergies, infections, parasites, and bug bites are common causes of itching. It may also be caused by an underlying condition. Keeping your dog clean with regular brushing and baths can help prevent itching. Oatmeal baths, moisturizers, sprays, creams can also help.

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.

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.

Why is my dog still scratching after 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.

Is it better to give my dog Apoquel in the morning or at night?

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.

Can dogs go on and off Apoquel?

Apoquel-A New Treatment for Allergies

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.

Why is Apoquel not working?

By far the most common reason why I see Apoquel and Cytopoint either not work or “stop working” is because infections like bacteria and malassezia (yeast) have not been addressed. Make sure to do skin cytology to rule out these infections.

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.

Will 1 Apoquel help my dog?

You can give the tablets with or without food. If the medication is effective, you should see your dog's itchiness diminish within 24 hours. Your veterinarian may prescribe Apoquel twice daily for up to two weeks and then reduce the dose to once daily. In other cases, starting with one dose a day will be sufficient.

What dog breeds are prone to itching?

Studies have shown that certain purebred dogs, such as Labrador retrievers, golden retrievers, West Highland white terriers, boxers, and bulldogs, are more likely to develop allergic skin disease, suggesting a genetic predisposition.

What can I give my dog to stop itching so badly?

Antihistamines some over-the-counter antihistamines such as Benadryl or Zyrtec may help control symptoms of environmental allergies if appropriate for your dog and administered as recommended by your veterinarian. Fish oil acts as a natural anti-inflammatory that can decrease itching.

How quickly does Apoquel work for dogs?

Apoquel® for dogs starts working within four hours and helps stop itching within 24 hours. Veterinarians prescribe Apoquel® either short-term for allergic flare-ups or long-term for the management of skin allergies.

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.

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