What is Apoquel for Dogs? Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects

Dr. Isabella Martinez
9 Min Read

What is Apoquel for dogs and its benefits? Find out the dosage and side effects of this effective canine allergy treatment medication in this blog.

Does your dog suffer from allergies that cause constant itching and skin problems? Allergies are a common culprit behind persistent itching in dogs. Allergies lead to bothersome skin and ear infections.

Managing seasonal canine allergies is a big challenge – especially when they become a year-round issue. Avoiding the allergens that trigger your dog’s symptoms is impossible, but there’s hope for relief.

Apoquel is a groundbreaking medication designed to combat environmental allergies in dogs. This innovative treatment targets itching and reduces skin inflammation, providing much-needed comfort and improving your pup’s overall well-being. Say goodbye to endless scratching and hello to a happier, itch-free dog with Apoquel by your side.

What is Apoquel?

Apoquel is a medication used for dogs to help manage itching and inflammation caused by allergic skin conditions. It contains oclacitinib, a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor.

What is Apoquel Used for in Dogs?

Apoquel is primarily used in dogs to alleviate the symptoms associated with allergic skin conditions. It treats allergic dermatitis due to environmental allergies (such as pollen or dust mites). Apoquel in dog medication reduces itching, redness, inflammation, and other discomforts commonly associated with allergic skin conditions. It inhibits certain enzymes in the dog’s immune response to reduce itching and inflammation associated with allergic dermatitis. It provides relief and improves the quality of life for dogs suffering from allergic skin conditions.

What is Apoquel used to treat dogs?

Apoquel is specifically used to treat allergic dermatitis in dogs. Allergic dermatitis is skin inflammation and irritation caused by environmental agents (e.g., pollen, dust mites), food reactions, and fleas. Apoquel targets the underlying immune response to relieve dogs from discomfort and improve their overall well-being. Your dog’s veterinarian may prescribe Apoquel if your dog has a skin allergy.

What is Apoquel for Dogs Do – Mode of Action

Allergic skin conditions in dogs often lead to persistent itching, redness, swelling, and discomfort. Apoquel is a medication specifically formulated for dogs to address itching and inflammation associated with allergic skin conditions. It contains the active ingredient oclacitinib.

Apoquel targets and inhibits certain enzymes in the dog’s immune response to suspend the release of substances that contribute to itching and inflammation, primarily histamines and cytokines. By blocking these substances, Apoquel helps to alleviate the symptoms associated with allergic skin conditions, providing relief for dogs.

Apoquel is effective in managing and controlling allergic dermatitis in many dogs. The medication offers rapid relief, often within hours of administration, and its effects can last up to 24 hours. This allows dogs to experience significant relief from itching and discomfort.

What are Apoquel Dog Medicine Benefits?

Relief from Itching and Discomfort:

Apoquel relieves itching – a common symptom of allergic skin conditions in dogs. It targets specific enzymes in the immune response to reduce itching and discomfort and improve a dog’s overall well-being.

Reduction of Inflammation:

Apoquel reduces inflammation associated with allergic skin conditions in dogs. It inhibits the release of inflammatory substances to reduce skin redness, swelling, and other signs of skin irritation.

Fast-Acting and Rapid Relief:

One of the notable benefits of Apoquel is its quick onset of action. Dogs usually experience relief from itching within hours of taking the medication. This fast-acting nature allows dogs to find relief from discomfort more rapidly, improving their quality of life.

Improved Quality of Life:

By effectively managing the symptoms of allergic skin conditions, Apoquel significantly enhances a dog’s quality of life. It helps alleviate constant itching, reduces skin irritation, and allows dogs to engage in normal activities without the constant discomfort associated with allergies.

Potential Decrease in Secondary Infections:

Allergies make dogs’ skin more susceptible to bacterial or fungal infections. Apoquel may help reduce the risk of secondary infections due to excessive scratching by controlling itching and inflammation.

Compatible with other medications:

Apoquel can be safely administered to dogs alongside other medications. It is good for effective combination therapy.

Easy Administration:

Apoquel® tablets are easy to administer to dogs. It can be mixed in food once or twice a day or as it is to your dog. It simplifies the treatment process for dogs and their owners.

What is Apoquel for cats?

Can we use Apoquel for cats? The short answer is: No. Apoquel is not FDA-approved for cats, but some veterinarians may use it off-label to manage certain conditions. Cats may require higher and more frequent Apoquel dosing as compared to dogs. However, it will have varying effects on cats – some cats may respond well, while others may not show any improvement.

Apoquel For Dogs Dosage Chart

Weight Range (lbs)Weight Range (kg)Apoquel Dosage (mg)
6.6 – 9.93.0 – 4.50.5 mg twice daily
10 – 14.94.6 – 6.71.0 mg twice daily
15 – 19.96.8 – 9.01.5 mg twice daily
20 – 29.99.1 – 13.62.0 mg twice daily
30 – 44.913.7 – 20.43.6 mg twice daily
45 – 59.920.5 – 27.25.4 mg twice daily
60 – 89.927.3 – 40.98.1 mg twice daily
90 – 129.941.0 – 59.016 mg twice daily

Apoquel Dosage – FAQs

What is apoquel 3.6mg for dogs?

Apoquel 3.6mg for dogs: Apoquel 3.6mg is prescribed to treat allergic reactions in smaller dogs or dogs with lower body weight.

What is apoquel 5.4 mg?

Apoquel 5.4mg: The vet will prescribe Apoquel 5.4mg to treat small to medium-sized dogs. The veterinarian will determine the appropriate administration schedule.

What is apoquel 16mg for dogs?

Apoquel 16mg for dogs: Apoquel 16mg is a dosage strength prescribed by veterinarians to manage allergic itching and inflammation in dogs. A vet will prescribe this dosage to treat allergic symptoms in medium to large-sized dogs.

In any case, a vet will best determine the dosage and frequency according to your dog’s weight, age, and treatment response.

What is Apoquel Tablets for Dogs – Potential Side Effects

It’s important to be aware of Apoquel’s potential side effects.

Common side effects of Apoquel in Dogs:

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Decreased appetite
  • Mild skin infections.

These side effects usually go away on their own.

Less common side effects of Apoquel in Dogs:

  • Ear infections
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Upper respiratory tract infections.

Precautions and monitoring:

If your dog has a history of certain medical conditions or a compromised immune system, your vet will closely monitor them during Apoquel administration. Inform your vet about your dog’s existing conditions or medications.

Adverse reactions:

Although Apoquel Allergic reactions are rare, they can happen. If you notice facial swelling, hives, breathing difficulty, or itching in your dog, contact your vet immediately.

Long-term use and monitoring:

Your vet will do occasional blood work to ensure your dog’s overall health and to check for any Apoquel negative effects on their immune system.

Conclusion 💭

Apoquel is a game-changer for dogs suffering from airborne allergies. It offers effective relief from itching, reduces skin inflammation, and promotes a happier, more comfortable life for your beloved furry companion. With Apoquel, you can help your dog reclaim their joy and bid farewell to allergy-related discomfort.

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Dr. Isabella Martinez has been a trusted veterinarian in the heart of Miami for the past 19 years. Over the course of her illustrious career, she has treated a myriad of animals, from the tiniest of hamsters to the grandest of Great Danes. Her journey hasn't just been about treating illnesses or performing surgeries; it's been about connecting with the animals and understanding their stories. Miami, with its vibrant culture and diverse pet population, has provided Dr. Martinez with countless tales of joy, heartbreak, and wonder. Every pet has a story, and every owner has a bond with their furry friend that's unique and profound. Recognizing the wealth of experiences she's amassed and the lessons she's learned, Dr. Martinez decided to start a blog apoquel.org delves into her adventures as a Miami vet. Through her posts, readers get a glimpse of the challenges faced in the veterinary world, the breakthroughs in treatments, and the heartwarming moments that make the job worthwhile. "Apoquel" isn't just a blog; it's a testament to Dr. Martinez's dedication to her profession and her love for the animals she treats. Through her words, she hopes to inspire future veterinarians, educate pet owners, and share the magic that happens when humans and animals connect.
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