Apoquel 5.4 mg, 100 tablets is a prescription medicine from Zoetis for dogs with allergic itch. The active ingredient is oclacitinib. Apoquel is prescribed for allergy-related dermatitis (contact, food or flea bite allergy) to relieve itching and reduce skin lesions, and for maintenance therapy in atopic dermatitis. The dose is 0.4–0.6 mg per kg: twice a day at first, then once a day. A vet decides the schedule and duration.
What it is and who makes it
Apoquel is made by the American veterinary company Zoetis. Oclacitinib is a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor: it blocks the signals the body uses to trigger itch and inflammation. Unlike classic steroids, it acts more selectively. It doesn't cure the allergy itself — it removes the itch while the vet finds and deals with the cause.
Dosage and schedule
| Stage | Dose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Start of treatment | 0.4–0.6 mg/kg twice a day | No more than 14 days |
| Maintenance for atopy | 0.4–0.6 mg/kg once a day | Per the instructions, up to 14 weeks |
At this dose, one 5.4 mg tablet corresponds to a dog of roughly 9–13.5 kg. For other weights, the vet prescribes part of a tablet or a different strength. Give the tablet by hand, with food or at the back of the tongue; food doesn't affect absorption. Make sure the dog swallows the whole dose.
Pros
- Fast itch relief. The dog stops scratching and wounds heal.
- Several types of allergy. Contact, food, flea and atopic dermatitis.
- Easy to give. With or without food; food doesn't affect it.
- Maintenance schedule. Once a day after the initial course.
- Large pack. 100 tablets cover long-term therapy.
Cons and what to keep in mind
- Prescription only. It affects the immune system.
- Age limit. Not for dogs under 12 months or under 3 kg.
- Contraindications. Immunosuppression (such as hyperadrenocorticism), progressive tumours, pregnancy, lactation, and breeding males.
- Doesn't treat the cause. Without finding the allergen and flea control, the itch returns after stopping.
- Price. Expensive, especially for large dogs.
Why finding the cause matters
Itching in dogs is a symptom. The most common cause is fleas and flea bite allergy, so regular flea control is essential. Next, the vet rules out skin infections and mange mites and, if needed, prescribes an elimination diet to test for food allergy — for example, Brit Veterinary Diet Hypoallergenic. More in hypoallergenic dog food.
Apoquel and topical products
For limited areas of inflammation, a vet may prescribe a topical spray such as Cortavance. In atopic dermatitis, tablets are combined with skin care: gentle barrier-restoring shampoos such as Douxo S3 Calm and omega-3 in the diet. This often helps reduce the dose or need tablets less often.
Monitoring your dog during treatment
Note how often your dog scratches and licks its paws, and photograph problem areas weekly. With long-term use, the vet may order follow-up blood tests. If lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea, new skin lumps or signs of infection appear, tell the vet.
Who it suits
Adult dogs over a year old and over 3 kg with allergic and atopic dermatitis and severe itching — as prescribed by a vet. Other medicines are in the veterinary pharmacy.
Verdict
Apoquel is an effective treatment for allergic itch in dogs with a clear dosing schedule. It's a prescription medicine with contraindications, so it's started only after a vet's examination, while the cause of the allergy is investigated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the Apoquel dose?
0.4–0.6 mg of oclacitinib per kg; twice a day for up to 14 days, then once a day.
From what age can Apoquel be given?
From 12 months and at least 3 kg.
Can it be given with food?
Yes, food doesn't affect absorption.
Can a pregnant dog take it?
No, it's contraindicated in pregnant and nursing bitches.
Does Apoquel cure allergies?
No, it relieves itching and inflammation; the cause of the allergy must be found and addressed.
Can a cat take Apoquel?
It's intended for dogs.
What if a dose is missed?
Give the next dose at the usual time and don't double it. If doses are often missed, discuss the schedule with your vet.
How long can Apoquel be given?
The twice-daily course lasts no more than 14 days; once-daily maintenance is decided by the vet.
