Vets recommend Apoquel (oclacitinib) because it is a fast-acting, effective, and generally safe, non-steroidal daily tablet designed to stop the itch-scratch cycle caused by allergic skin conditions in dogs. It works by targeting specific cytokines (JAK 1 & 3 enzymes) involved in inflammation, providing relief in as little as 4–24 hours without many of the side effects associated with long-term steroid use.

What are the downsides of Apoquel?

The benefits of Apoquel include: rapid onset of action, low likelihood of GI side effects, rare side effects with long term use. The downsides include: monitoring needed for bone marrow suppression, does not work for some pets, and we do not have much long term data.

Why do vets prescribe Apoquel for dogs?

Apoquel® (active ingredient oclacitinib) is an FDA-approved veterinary prescription allergy medication used to treat itching and inflammation associated with allergic dermatitis in dogs, including flea allergy (allergy to flea bite saliva) and atopic dermatitis, a common long-term inflammatory skin disease triggered by ...

How long can dogs be on Apoquel?

Most commonly, veterinarians recommend that dogs start by taking Apoquel twice daily for 14 days. Your vet may then slowly decrease your dog's dosage for long-term use. The goal is to keep your dog on the lowest effective dosage. Many dogs take the medication for the rest of their lives.

What to give a dog instead of Apoquel?

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.

Canine Dermatitis: Cytopoint Updates Stop The Itching

Is Zyrtec just as good as Apoquel for dogs?

In contrast, while Zyrtec, an antihistamine, is effective in managing mild allergies and associated symptoms, research shows that it does not offer the same rapid and reliable relief for severe cases of itchiness and skin inflammation when compared to newer medications such as Apoquel [1].

Is there a way to get Apoquel without a vet prescription?

Can pet owners get Apoquel without a prescription? Apoquel is not available over the counter. You cannot buy Apoquel without presenting a valid prescription from your vet.

Is Apoquel just Benadryl?

Apoquel® (oclacitinib tablets) is an anti-itch, anti- inflammatory medicine with a new and unique mode of action. It is not an antihistamine or a cortisone-type drug.

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.

Can Apoquel be used intermittently?

Flexible Apoquel can be used long term to manage chronic itch, or short term to manage intermittent or seasonal itch. Short courses of Apoquel can help reduce allergic itch associated with conditions such as hot spots or ear infections, whilst these are being treated.

What is the fastest acting dog itch relief?

Pet MD Hydrocortisone Spray is a fast-acting formula that addresses itches, rashes, and other minor skin irritations. Safe for dogs, cats, and horses, this convenient spray targets irritated skin. Propylene Glycol USP, Hydrocortisone USP, Germaben II.

Can I buy Apoquel at PetSmart?

Apoquel Tablets for Dogs, 16 mg, 30 Tablets

Pet parents on the search for relief from your dog's allergies can find what they need at The Pharmacy at PetSmart.

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 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.

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 do vets recommend for dogs with itchy skin?

To address itchy skin on dogs, bathing one to two times week will suffice. We do not recommend over-bathing a dog with environmental allergies. And while many over-the-counter shampoos may work for your pup, we recommend dog-specific products that can be purchased from your veterinarian.

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).

Can Zyrtec replace Apoquel for dogs?

Is there an alternative to Apoquel for dogs? Yes, there are alternatives to Apoquel for dogs. These include antihistamines like Benadryl or Zyrtec, steroids such as prednisone, and natural supplements like omega-3 fatty acids.

How long does it take for Apoquel to start working?

[00:04:36] When your pet needs fast relief from itch, Apoquel starts working very quickly, as fast as four hours after the first dose is administered.

Can you stop Apoquel cold turkey?

Apoquel-A New Treatment for Allergies

This medication acts quickly and provides relief within four hours. It is safe to stop and start, unlike prednisone that requires a gradual tapering when stopping the medication.

What are the signs my dog needs Apoquel?

Of many allergy symptoms in dogs, Fido may demonstrate excessive licking, chewing, biting or scratching, scooting, foot chewing, hair loss, body odor, frequent rolling, changes in the skin (sores or darkened color) and recurrent ear problems.

Does Walmart Pharmacy have Apoquel for dogs?

Apoquel (Oclacitinib) Tablets for Dogs, 5.4 mg HSA/FSA Eligible - Walmart.com.

Is there anything as good as Apoquel?

Zenrelia is a new FDA-approved oral medication poised to become a popular alternative to Apoquel among pet parents. Like Apoquel, Zenrelia provides fast and effective relief for itchy dogs by disrupting the immune response that triggers allergic itch and inflammation.

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