December 28, 2022

What is Apoquel for Dogs?

Whilst many people will be aware of human medications and what they do, when their pet is prescribed with a medication, it can be tricky to know exactly what it is. It is easy to know what ibuprofen does for a human, but when a vet gives you the name of a medication for your pet it is natural to be curious about how it is actually going to help your animal. This is the case for Apoquel, a medication that is used to help dogs. In this article, we will answer exactly what Apoquel is, what it does, as well as many other frequently asked questions about it. 

What is Apoquel for Dogs?

Apoquel is a prescription-only medication that is used to treat conditions in dogs. As a prescription-only medication, it can only be purchased after it has been prescribed by a vet. You can then purchase Apoquel online from UK Pets. 

What is Apoquel for Dogs used for?

Apoquel is a medication that is used to treat itching and inflammation in dogs. It is an anti-inflammatory medication, which means it works to help combat swelling, also known as inflammation. Apoquel works by blocking the action of certain proteins in the body that contribute to inflammation. It is often used to treat allergies and other conditions that cause itching and discomfort in dogs.

What form does Apoquel for Dogs come in?

The Apoquel that you can purchase from UK Pets is in tablet form. This is the most common form of Apoquel. Your vet will be able to provide you with advice on how to give your dog their tablets, and you will also be able to follow the advice on the medication instructions included with the tablets. 

What strength is Apoquel for Dogs available in?

Your vet will prescribe you with the strength of Apoquel that they think will best treat your dog's individual condition. When you have been told what strength Apoquel you need you can then purchase it online from UK Pets. The strengths that you can purchase from UK Pets are 3.6mg, 5.4mg and 16mg. Again, you will only be able to purchase the strength of Apoquel that your vet has specifically prescribed. 

What is an allergic itch in dogs?

An allergic itch is a type of skin irritation that occurs as a result of an allergic reaction. Allergic reactions can be caused by a wide variety of things including certain foods, environmental irritants, and insect bites. When a dog comes into contact with one of these allergens, its immune system responds by releasing histamine. This can cause symptoms such as allergic itch redness, and inflammation. In some severe cases, an allergic reaction can also lead to difficulty breathing, vomiting, and diarrhoea. If your dog is experiencing allergic itching, it is important to consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What are the signs of allergic itch in my dog?

Several signs may indicate that your dog is experiencing allergic itch. These can include:

  • Excessive scratching or licking at the skin

  • Redness or swelling of the skin

  • Hair loss or bald patches on the skin

  • Scabbing or sore patches on the skin

  • Areas of inflamed, moist skin

  • Itching that is worse at certain times of the year (such as during allergy season)

  • Itching that is worse in certain environments (such as in the presence of certain plants or after being outdoors)

If you notice any of these symptoms it is important to consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. It is also important to try to identify the underlying cause of the allergic reaction so that it can be avoided in the future.

What are the common causes of allergic itch in my dog?

Allergic itch in dogs can be caused by a variety of different things. Causes include allergens in the environment such as pollen, mould, and dust mites, as well as food allergies or sensitivities to ingredients in their diet. Other potential causes of allergic itch in dogs can include flea bites and contact with certain chemicals or materials. It is best to consult with a vet to determine the specific cause of allergic itch in your dog and to develop a treatment plan which may include Apoquel. 

When should I see a vet about an allergic itch in my dog?

If you believe your dog is experiencing an allergic itch, it is always best to consult with a vet to determine the cause and possible treatment that is needed. In general, you should see a vet if your dog is experiencing any symptoms that are causing them discomfort or distress, or if their symptoms do not improve within a few days. Allergic itch can be a chronic condition, and ongoing treatment may be necessary to keep your dog comfortable and healthy. If your dog is scratching excessively, there is a risk that they may injure themselves, so it is important to address the issue as soon as possible.

Who is Apoquel for Dogs manufactured by?

Apoquel is the branded name for the generic medication known as oclacitinib. This is an approved medication for treating inflammation, and it was created by Zoetis.

Who are Zoetis?

Zoetis is the largest animal health company in the world. Zoetis’ purpose is ‘to nurture our world and humankind by advancing care for animals.’ Zoetis creates products for domestic pets, horses, and farm animals, as well as diagnostics for all animals. 

FAQs

How is Apoquel for dogs different to antihistamines?

While both Apoquel and antihistamines can be effective in treating allergic itch in dogs, they work in different ways and may be used in different situations. Your veterinarian can help you determine the best course of treatment for your dog, based on their specific symptoms and medical history. Antihistamines work by blocking histamines, a chemical produced by the immune system. Apoquel works by blocking the action of certain immune system proteins that are involved in the allergic response.

How is Apoquel for dogs different to Steroids?

Both Apoquel and steroids can effectively treat allergic itch in dogs. Like antihistamines, they work in different ways and may be used in different ways. Your vet again can help you determine the best treatment for your dog based on their symptoms. It is important to note that long-term use of steroids can have potential side effects, so they should only be used under the guidance of a veterinarian.

Can Apoquel be given to dogs with their food?

Yes, Apoquel can be given to dogs with or without food. According to the product label, Apoquel can be given orally with or without food. However, if your dog is experiencing stomach upset after taking the medication, it may be helpful to give it with food to reduce the likelihood of side effects. It is important to follow your veterinarian's instructions for administering Apoquel to your dog, and to ensure that the medication is given consistently and at the correct dosage.

How quickly does Apoquel for dogs take effect?

The exact time it takes for Apoquel to take effect may vary depending on the individual dog and their specific condition. However, according to the product label, Apoquel is generally fast-acting and can provide relief from allergic itch within 4 hours of administration. In clinical studies, the majority of dogs treated with Apoquel showed a significant improvement in their symptoms within 24 hours of starting treatment.

How often should Apoquel for dogs be given to your dog?

You should only ever give your dog medication as outlined by your vet. If you are unsure when to give your dog Apoquel then you should contact your vet, however, this information should be clearly displayed on your prescription. 

Is Apoquel for Dogs suitable for short-term usage?

It is important to consult with a vet to determine the appropriate length of treatment for your dog. The duration of treatment with Apoquel may vary depending on the individual dog and their specific condition. In general, Apoquel is great for short-term relief from allergic itch. However, the best way to treat allergic itch is to find out what the root of the allergic reaction is, and treat that. It can also be used as part of a long-term treatment plan for dogs with chronic allergic itch.

Can Apoquel for dogs have any side effects?

The most common side effects of Apoquel for dogs include the following:

  • Vomiting

  • Diarrhoea

  • Loss of appetite

  • Lethargy

Other, less common side effects may include:

  • Changes in behaviour, such as aggression or anxiety

  • Changes in the skin or coat, such as redness or hair loss

Is it safe to give Apoquel for Dogs to my dog if they take other medications?

It is generally safe to give Apoquel to your dog if they are taking other medications. However, it is always essential to consult with a vet before giving your dog any new medicines, including Apoquel. Your vet will be able to determine if Apoquel is safe for your dog based on their overall health and any other medications they may be taking.

Do I need a prescription to order Apoquel for Dogs?

Yes, a prescription is required in order to purchase Apoquel for your dog online with UK Pets. Apoquel is a prescription-only medication, which means that it can only be obtained with a valid prescription. In order to get a prescription for Apoquel, you will need to consult with a veterinarian and have them evaluate your dog's condition.

Where can I buy Apoquel for Dogs online?

You can purchase Apoquel online from UK Pets provided that you have a valid prescription for it. 

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Sources

https://www.zoetispetcare.com/products/apoquel

https://www.petmd.com/pet-medication/apoquel

https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/veterinary/EPAR/apoquel

https://ukpetdrugs.co.uk/apoquel-tablets-for-dogs

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