Yes, Apoquel (oclacitinib) is generally considered safe for long-term use in dogs, with studies showing effectiveness and minimal concerning side effects over years, though it requires veterinary monitoring with regular check-ups, blood work, and urine tests to watch for potential issues like increased risk of infections (urinary tract, skin), gastrointestinal upset, or changes in blood cell counts, and it's crucial to use it under vet guidance as it suppresses part of the immune system.

Can a dog be on Apoquel for life?

Apoquel can be used long term, but it must be monitored with yearly (or every 6 months) blood work at the vet to make sure it is not causing any side affects.

What is the best alternative to Apoquel for dogs?

Alternatives to Apoquel include antihistamines like cetirizine or hydroxyzine, omega-3 supplements, and medicated baths. Regular flea control and hypoallergenic diets can help. Consult a vet for tailored treatment, as some medications require prescriptions and monitoring for side effects.

Do dogs build up a tolerance to Apoquel?

Small Dog Allergies: Apoquel Tolerance and Medication Concerns This breed often faces persistent allergies and medication tolerance affecting treatment efficacy. Apoquel tolerance can reduce its effectiveness in controlling allergic symptoms like itching and inflammation.

What organ does Apoquel affect?

Oclacitinib (Apoquel) toxicosis resulting in acute kidney injury in a dog in: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association Volume 263 Issue 9 (2025)

Brighton: Apoquel treatment for IMPA (before/after)

What dogs should not take Apoquel?

Apoquel should not be used in dogs under 12 months of age, lactating dogs, or dogs with pre-existing cancers or serious 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.

Should I give my dog a break from 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.

What is the best antihistamine for dogs with itchy skin?

Antihistamines for Skin Allergies in Dogs

• Cetirizine (Zyrtec) ¼ – ½ mg per pound (one 10mg tab per 30-40 lbs) twice daily.
• Loratadine (Claritin): ¼ mg per pound (half of a 10mg tablet per 20 lbs) once daily.
• Clemastine (Tavist-1, Antihist-1): 0.02mg per pound (one 1.34mg tablet per 65lb dog) twice daily.

Is CBD better than Apoquel?

Apoquel is great for fast relief, but can raise concerns about immune suppression and long-term risks. CBD takes a more natural route, aiming to support overall balance without shutting down the immune system. Some pet parents combine CBD with Apoquel to help ease side effects, but only under a vet's guidance.

What is a holistic treatment for dog allergies?

Top 5 Holistic Treatments for Dog Allergies

Supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, help a dog's overall health and wellness as well as support a healthy skin and coat in dogs. Probiotics, such as Purina FortiFlora Powder, contain live bacteria that reduce inflammation (swelling) and support a healthy gut in dogs.

Why is my dog still itching with 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 safe to give my dog Apoquel 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.

Why are so many dogs on Apoquel?

Apoquel is a widely used medication designed to control itching and inflammation caused by allergic skin diseases in dogs. It has become a popular treatment option due to its fast-acting nature and ability to provide relief without many of the side effects associated with traditional steroids.

What is safer than Apoquel?

In general, Cytopoint® has fewer potential for side effects than Apoquel®, and that is often a reason to select it as a first choice therapy. However, neither Cytopoint® nor Apoquel® are effective in every dog.

What can I give my dog orally for itchy skin?

Benadryl can be used to treat itchy skin in dogs caused by skin allergies. It also reduces many of the other symptoms of allergies. However, check with your veterinarian for the correct dosage based on your dog's weight and if it might interact with other medication it is taking.

Can dogs have withdrawal from Apoquel?

Dr. Schick shares the good news: There is no withdrawal period required for Atopica, Apoquel or Cytopoint, and you do not have to discontinue the drugs.

Why can't you touch 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.

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.

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