Apoquel

General Drug Information and Indications

Pruritus associated with allergic and atopic dermatitis in dogs ≥12 months; JAK1/JAK3 inhibitor; approved for short- and long-term use. JAK inhibitor (oclacitinib maleate). Mechanism: selectively inhibits Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) and JAK3, blocking signaling of interleukins and cytokines (IL-31, IL-4, IL-13) involved in pruritus and inflammation. Rapid onset of itch relief (within 4 hrs). Oral bioavailability ~89% in dogs. Does not provide analgesia. Key information Store at room temperature. Dogs only — not for cats. Do not use in dogs <12 months or <3 kg. Avoid use in dogs with serious infection, demodicosis, or neoplasia. Not for use in breeding/pregnant/lactating dogs. Annual wellness exams recommended. Monitor for GI upset during initial weeks.

How to Give this Medication

Oral tablets: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. Administer twice daily for the first 14 days, then once daily for maintenance. Do not split or crush scored tablets unevenly. If a dose is missed Administer as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule. Never double up doses to make up for a missed one.

Side Effects

GI: vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, polydipsia. Lethargy. Hematologic: mild leukopenia, thrombocytopenia (rare). Susceptibility to infections: increased risk of bacterial skin infections, demodicosis, UTI, respiratory infections (JAK-mediated immune suppression). New neoplasia: lymphoma risk debated (monitor). Do not use in dogs <12 months.

Precautions

For animals Not for use in dogs <12 months of age or <3 kg. Avoid in dogs with serious infections, demodicosis, or neoplasia. May mask signs of infection. Pre-existing neoplasia: use with caution — immunosuppressive mechanism. Monitor for new infections and lymphopenia. Not approved for use in food-producing animals. Avoid in pregnant animals. For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). JAK inhibitor — avoid contact with broken skin. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. after handling tablets. Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact.

Overdose

Contact your veterinarian. Apoquel overdose typically causes GI signs (vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy). Monitor for infection signs due to immunosuppression. Contact your veterinarian, a veterinary emergency clinic, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically directed by a veterinary professional.

Apoquel dosage forms

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
APOQUEL 3.6MG TABLET3.6 MGTablet3.6MGCommercial
APOQUEL 5.4MG TABLET5.4 MGTablet1Commercial
APOQUEL CHEWABLE TABS - 3.6MG3.6 MGTablet1Commercial
APOQUEL CHEWABLE TABS 16MG16 MGTablet1Commercial
APOQUEL TABS 16MG16 MGTablet1Commercial

Sources

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com); FDA-approved label (Apoquel, Zoetis)