Apoquel (oclacitinib) is contraindicated in dogs with serious infections, cancer, or hypersensitivity to its ingredients; it's also not for dogs under 12 months old, pregnant/nursing/breeding dogs, or those with demodicosis, as it modulates the immune system and can increase infection risk or worsen tumors. Use should be avoided with concurrent steroids, and periodic monitoring for infection and cancer signs is recommended, especially long-term.

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.

Does Apoquel help hives?

Apoquel is not very effective for itching and hives due to a bee sting. Do you have any Benadryl?

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.

When should I avoid giving my dog antihistamines?

Antihistamines are usually safe for dogs but can make some dogs drowsy and others hyperactive. OTC antihistamines may contain other ingredients, such as decongestants, that are not safe for dogs.

Concerning Side Effects of Apoquel in Dogs

How quickly does Apoquel stop itching?

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.

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.

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.

Why is Apoquel so expensive?

Apoquel is pricey due to its patented formulation and effectiveness in targeting allergy symptoms in dogs.

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.

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.

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 foods cause dogs to itch?

Foods that cause skin allergies in dogs usually include one of the following ingredients:

• dairy.
• beef.
• chicken.
• chicken eggs.
• soy.
• wheat gluten.

Why is my dog still itchy on Apoquel?

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.

Why is my dog constantly licking and itching?

Allergies and Skin Conditions

Food sensitivities and environmental allergens like pollen and mold can cause your pup's skin to itch. Some dogs also develop contact dermatitis from things like shampoos or cleaning products. Dry skin can also cause your dog to compulsively lick or scratch his fur and skin.

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.

Why is my dog still itchy after taking antihistamines?

These factors include fleas or mites, Staph (bacteria) or yeast (fungal) infections, and food allergies. If you're noticing an increase in your dog's scratching, they may have developed one or more of these flare factors that are pushing them over their “itch threshold” despite being on anti-itch medication.

What can I give my dog for allergies without going to the vet?

You can safely give your pet an over-the-counter anti-histamine to relieve their symptoms. The dosage depends on your pet's unique needs and their weight. So, before stuffing any allergy medication into their mouth, check with your veterinarian.

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