Apoquel (oclacitinib) is generally safe with most medications but should not be combined with other immunosuppressive drugs, such as corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) or cyclosporine (Atopica), especially long-term, due to risks of excessive immune suppression. It is also advised to avoid or use caution with medications that could further suppress bone marrow or cause severe infections.

What medications should not be taken with Apoquel for dogs?

Dog Given Phenobarbital While on Apoquel: Potential Risks Explained Dogs on Apoquel may experience immune suppression and increased infection risk. Administering Phenobarbital to a dog already on Apoquel can cause drug interactions affecting liver function and sedation levels.

How to use Apoquel for cats?

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.

Is Benadryl safe to give with Apoquel?

Combining Apoquel and Benadryl is perfectly fine, so there's no need for concern.

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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Why is my dog still itchy 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 better to give a dog Apoquel at night or morning?

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.

How long can dogs stay on Apoquel?

Dosing/Administration for dogs: The dose of Apoquel is 0.4-0.6 mg/kg every 12 hours for up to 14 days, then 0.4-0.6 mg/kg once daily thereafter. Apoquel is not FDA approved to use twice daily longer than 14 days.

Is Zyrtec better for my dog than Apoquel?

Is Apoquel or Zyrtec better for dogs? Apoquel is generally more effective for treating moderate to severe allergies in dogs, while Zyrtec may help with mild allergic reactions.

Which is better for dog allergies, Benadryl or Apoquel?

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.

What is the 3:2:1 rule in cats?

The "3-2-1 Rule" for cats is a guideline for monitoring injection sites for lumps after vaccinations, indicating potential Feline Injection-Site Sarcomas (FISS); a lump needs veterinary investigation if it's present for 3 months, is larger than 2 centimeters, or grows after 1 month, prompting a biopsy to rule out cancer. This helps differentiate normal inflammation from aggressive tumors, with biopsy recommended for concerning signs, especially since FISS are serious but rare.

How many hours does Apoquel work?

Apoquel is used to treat and control itching and inflammation in dogs resulting from a variety of causes, including environmental allergies, food allergies, flea allergy, and contact allergies. Apoquel delivers onset of relief within 4 hours and effectively controls itching within 24 hours.

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.

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.

Will gabapentin help with itching in dogs?

If central sensitization or neurologic itch is suspected, then anticonvulsants, especially gabapentin or pregabalin, could be options for treatment (1,3,7,11).

What is the strongest antihistamine for dog allergies?

recommend “Welactin” due to it's high-potency and purity.

Can you mix Zyrtec and Apoquel?

You can safely use antihistamines alongside other allergy medications such as Apoquel® and Atopica®, as there are no known interactions.

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.

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 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.

Will Apoquel make a dog sleepy?

The most common side effects include gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite) and low energy (lethargy), which are typically short-term and resolve on their own. Less common side effects may include: Elevated liver levels. Skin and ear infection.

What is the generic for Apoquel?

Oclacitinib (brand name Apoquel®) is an oral medication used to manage itching associated with allergic dermatitis (including atopy) in dogs at least 12 months of age. It may also be effective for treating other skin conditions in dogs and is used occasionally to treat certain skin conditions in cats.

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