Is your canine companion constantly scratching, leaving you and your furry friend miserable? Apoquel, while a popular solution, is not without its complexities, and understanding its role in your dog's health is crucial.
Apoquel (oclacitinib) is a medication specifically designed for dogs, a fact that underscores a critical point: it is not approved for human use. Vets often turn to Apoquel when the underlying cause of a dog's itching cannot be easily identified or when other treatments have failed. The drug works by blocking the itch sensation, offering relief, but it does not cure the underlying allergy. This means your dog might still experience skin issues like redness and sores, though the intensity of the itching will be reduced.
Apoquel is not a quick fix. It is generally not prescribed for short-term issues like acute dermatitis. Once a dog starts Apoquel, they often remain on the medication for the rest of their lives. This long-term use brings its own set of considerations, including potential side effects, which will be explored further. Apoquel alters a dog's immune system, so monitoring your pet's health is essential.
The goal with Apoquel is to manage the dog's quality of life. In some cases, effective allergy management can be achieved by identifying and managing the dog's specific allergens, potentially through testing, such as ruling out chicken, fish, potatoes, or dust.
While Apoquel offers relief, it can be costly, and some pet owners seek alternatives to manage their dog's allergies. Alternatives include natural remedies, or other prescription medications such as Cytopoint injections or antihistamines like Benadryl and Zyrtec. Before introducing any human medications or supplements to your dog, it is vital to consult with a veterinarian. Human medications like loratadine (Claritin) can provide relief, but safety and dosage should always be vet-approved. Remember, steroids prescribed for your dog are also the same steroids prescribed to humans.
For dogs over 12 months of age, Apoquel can be considered as a remedy. In its announcement, Elanco made several comparisons between their drug and market rival Apoquel, and Zenrelia was shown in studies to be at least as effective. However, the decisions are rarely simple. The price of Apoquel can be a burden, with costs easily exceeding $100 per month.
The long-term implications of Apoquel, including potential side effects, need to be understood and carefully considered.
In the veterinary world, understanding the drug landscape is crucial. Many vets recommend Apoquel twice daily for the first 14 days. Veterinarians are more knowledgeable than many people realize.
The following table provides a concise comparison of key aspects:
Feature | Apoquel | Benadryl | Cytopoint |
---|---|---|---|
Primary Use | Itch relief from allergies | Antihistamine, allergy relief | Itch relief from allergies |
Active Ingredient | Oclacitinib | Diphenhydramine | Lokivetmab |
Administration | Oral tablets | Oral tablets or liquid | Injection |
Mechanism of Action | JAK inhibitor, blocks itch signals | Antihistamine, blocks histamine | Monoclonal antibody, targets IL-31 |
Approved Species | Dogs | Dogs, humans | Dogs |
Side Effects | May suppress the immune system, potential for infections, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy | Drowsiness, dry mouth, potentially hyperactivity or excitement | Rare, primarily injection site reactions |
Cost | Moderate to High | Low | Moderate to High |
Duration of Effect | Daily, long-term use | Short-term, every few hours | 4-8 weeks |
Not for Humans | Yes | No | No |
Apoquel is effective in managing allergies, but the decision to use it should be informed by a discussion with your veterinarian about your dogs specific needs, potential risks, and alternative treatment options. Remember, consulting with a veterinarian before giving your dog any medications is crucial.
Many pet owners have discovered effective approaches to reducing their dog's allergy symptoms. For example, if the dog's allergies are connected to their diet, switching to a diet made with human-quality ingredients is a good strategy.