Apoquel® can be given with or without food. For some dogs, we prescribe it twice daily (morning and night) for a short period of time, then reduce to once per day. For others, we start at once per day. If given once daily, it can be given either morning OR night, depending on when your dog seems most itchy.
Back in May 2013, the FDA approved Apoquel, for the control of pruritus associated with allergic dermatitis and the control of atopic dermatitis in dogs at least 12 months of age. The generic name for Apoquel is its active ingredient, oclacitinib.
APOQUEL is used for the control of itch associated with allergic skin disease and for control of atopic skin disease in dogs at least 1 year of age. APOQUEL significantly reduces itching, and also decreases the associated inflammation, redness or swelling of the skin.
Common antihistamines like Benadryl and Apoquel are safe to be used together. But if your dog is not able to take Apoquel but has a persistent itch, or suffers from pruritus caused by atopic dermatitis, other solutions can help.
Apoquel is not available over the counter. You cannot buy Apoquel without presenting a valid prescription from your vet.
For prescription-only medicines, an online pharmacy must receive a legally valid prescription before dispensing the medicine. This means you'll either need a paper prescription or an electronic prescription via the Electronic Prescription Service (EPS) from a GP or another healthcare professional.
Apoquel is cheaper at international online pharmacies in the case of Apoquel, strengths 3.6mg and 5.4mg. See the chart below.
Veterinarians can get the same amount for $219 from 1-800-PetMeds in the U.S. Although the savings isn't substantial, it can really add up when you're running a busy clinic. Be sure to compare costs before you buy though! Apparently, the strength is a factor for savings.
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.
Apoquel® is safe to use along with antibiotics, antifungals, anti-arthritis drugs, allergy shots or drops, any flea/tick/heartworm preventive, thyroid supplements, and seizure medications.
Fast Acting and Safe Itch Relief For Your Dog. Apoquel starts relieving allergic dog itch within 4 hours - and controls it within 24 hours. Apoquel is given twice daily, for up to 14 days, and then once daily for maintenance therapy.
Apoquel can be combined with antibiotics, anti-fungals, antihistamines, topical steroids, allergy shots and sublingual immunotherapy. Apoquel does not interfere with allergy testing.