Apoquel for Dogs

Apoquel (generic: oclacitinib) is a prescription-only anti-itch and allergy relief medication for dogs. It’s a JAK inhibitor, which means it helps block itch signals and calm skin inflammation. Vets most often prescribe it for allergic itch (allergic dermatitis) and atopic dermatitis in dogs. Rx-only. ([fda.gov](https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/drug-labels/2021-animal-drug-safety-related-labeling-changes?utm_source=openai)) In plain terms: it helps dogs scratch less and feel more comfortable. It comes as tablets, and there is also a chewable form your clinic may carry. Any questions about whether it’s right for a specific dog, how to give it, or side effects should be discussed with the veterinarian. ([news.zoetis.com](https://news.zoetis.com/press-releases/press-release-details/2023/Zoetis-Announces-FDA-Approval-of-Apoquel-Chewable-oclacitinib-chewable-tablet-for-Control-of-Pruritus-Associated-With-Allergic-Dermatitis-and-Control-of-Atopic-Dermatitis-in-Dogs/default.aspx?utm_source=openai))

Common owner FAQs (front-desk quick answers) - Q: How fast will it help my dog stop itching? A: Many dogs feel relief within about 4 hours and itch is usually well controlled by 24 hours. If your dog isn’t improving after a few days, your veterinarian can discuss next steps. - Q: Is it safe for long‑term use? A: Apoquel is prescription‑only and modulates the immune system. It’s labeled for dogs at least 12 months old. Like all medicines, it has risks—dogs may be more prone to infections, and new or pre‑existing cancers may worsen. Your veterinarian will decide on monitoring and whether long‑term use is appropriate for your dog. - Q: Can I give Apoquel with my dog’s other meds or vaccines? A: Apoquel has been used safely with many common medicines (for example, antibiotics, parasite preventives) and with vaccines, but it hasn’t been tested with some drugs used for skin disease (like certain steroids or cyclosporine) at the same time. Always check with your veterinarian before adding or changing any medication or supplement. - Q: What side effects should I watch for? A: The most common are mild stomach upset (vomiting or diarrhea). Call us the same day if vomiting/diarrhea lasts, your dog won’t eat, seems very tired, or shows signs of infection (cough, fever, pus, red/swollen skin). Go to an emergency vet now for trouble breathing, facial swelling, hives, collapse, or if a person or child swallows the medication (call Poison Control at 1‑800‑222‑1222). - Q: What if I miss a dose? A: Don’t double up. If it’s close to the next scheduled time, skip the missed dose. If you’re unsure what to do, call us and we’ll have the veterinarian advise you.

Owners most often report mild stomach/intestinal upset (vomiting, soft stool/diarrhea), lower appetite, and low energy after starting Apoquel. Some dogs may also develop skin, ear, or urinary infections while on the medication, and new or changing skin growths (warts, small lumps) can occur. These effects are documented in the product safety information and regulatory summaries for oclacitinib. Your veterinarian can discuss what’s expected for your individual patient and how to monitor while on therapy. Call the clinic if the dog has vomiting or diarrhea that lasts more than 24 hours, won’t eat, seems unusually tired, or you see signs of infection (ear discharge/odor, painful or frequent urination, coughing or breathing changes, hot or oozing skin areas). Report any new or rapidly growing lumps, or behavior changes that worry the owner. Do not advise owners to start, stop, or change dosing—your veterinarian can advise on next steps. Escalate immediately if there is trouble breathing, collapse, a seizure, repeated vomiting with inability to keep water down, or the dog appears acutely very ill—these are emergencies and the pet should be directed to an emergency veterinary hospital right away.

Forms and giving: Apoquel comes as a film‑coated tablet and as a flavored chewable tablet for dogs. Both can be given with or without food; if a dog’s stomach seems upset on an empty stomach, future doses can be given with a small meal. Tablets are scored so a veterinarian may prescribe half‑tablets; the manufacturer advises against quartering because accuracy can’t be ensured. Wash hands after handling, and avoid handling if pregnant or nursing; wear gloves to clean any vomit. Store split halves in the original packaging and use for the next dose; keep all forms out of reach of other pets, especially cats, as the chewable flavor can attract them. [Your veterinarian can discuss which formulation is best for this patient.]. Troubleshooting “won’t take it”: Offer the chewable formulation if available, or hide the regular tablet in a small treat or bite of food (not a full meal). Because the chewable is palatable, many dogs will take it voluntarily; if this is still a struggle, your veterinarian can discuss other options. Securely store the medication between doses—there are published warnings about cats seeking out and ingesting the chewable tablets in multi‑pet homes. Vomiting or other concerns: Occasional mild vomiting or diarrhea can occur. If vomiting is persistent, severe, or you see blood, or if there is fever, unusual lethargy, shortness of breath, or signs of infection, contact the veterinary team the same day for guidance. Difficulty breathing or collapse is an emergency—seek immediate veterinary care. If a dog cannot reliably take either the tablet or chewable, your veterinarian may consider a compounded flavored liquid made from the approved tablets; note that compounded preparations are not FDA‑approved and quality can vary, so this should be arranged through the prescribing veterinarian and a reputable compounding pharmacy.

Apoquel (oclacitinib) is prescription-only. Refills must be approved by a veterinarian within a valid veterinarian–client–patient relationship (VCPR). By federal law, prescription animal drugs can only be dispensed by or on the lawful order of a licensed veterinarian; online or retail pharmacies must receive a valid prescription or verify it with the clinic. Practices should avoid unlimited refills and dispense only quantities the prescriber deems appropriate. Sites that do not require a prescription should not be used; pharmacies should be U.S.-licensed. Your veterinarian can discuss the appropriate refill quantity and whether a written prescription will be provided or sent directly to a pharmacy. Reexamination timing is determined by the prescriber and state rules. Because Apoquel modulates the immune system and has labeled risks (e.g., increased susceptibility to infection; post‑approval reports include vomiting/diarrhea, lethargy, anorexia, elevated liver enzymes, skin infections, and neoplasia), the veterinarian may require periodic rechecks and, when indicated, lab work before approving refills. If a caller reports new lumps, signs of infection (fever, pus, coughing, painful urination), persistent vomiting/diarrhea, seizures, profound lethargy, or loss of appetite, escalate to the medical team immediately for guidance; do not promise a refill until a veterinarian reviews the case. Refill workflow (front office): verify patient identity and current VCPR; collect medication name and form (tablet vs chewable), quantity requested/remaining, owner contact, and pick‑up vs pharmacy details (pharmacy name, phone/fax, address). Confirm last exam date and document any new symptoms or adverse effects for the veterinarian to review. Set expectations per clinic policy (commonly within 1–2 business days) and advise that recheck scheduling may be required before approval. For online pharmacy requests, confirm the pharmacy is U.S.-licensed and instruct the pharmacy to send a prescription authorization; document all communications and route to the prescriber for approval or denial.

Escalate immediately if the dog has trouble breathing, collapses, develops severe facial swelling or hives with vomiting/diarrhea, or has a new seizure. These can indicate a severe allergic reaction or other emergency. Get a veterinarian or technician on the line now; if after hours, direct the caller to the nearest emergency hospital. ([merckvetmanual.com](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/immune-system/immunologic-diseases/hypersensitivity-diseases-in-animals?utm_source=openai)) Because Apoquel lowers some immune defenses, same-day escalation is needed for signs of serious infection or abnormal growths: fever, deep cough or shortness of breath, pus‑draining or non‑healing skin sores (including between the toes), painful urination, or any new/rapidly growing lump or swollen lymph nodes. If an overdose is suspected (extra doses or the bottle was chewed), watch for vomiting, diarrhea, low energy; very large overdoses over time have been linked with pneumonia, deep toe-web infections, or wart‑like skin growths—contact the medical team and consider poison control if after hours. Only a veterinarian can assess whether these signs are related to the medication and what to do next. ([vetlabel.com](https://vetlabel.com/lib/vet/meds/apoquel/))

Apoquel (oclacitinib) is an Rx-only JAK inhibitor for allergic itch in dogs. Per the prescribing information, it has been used safely with many common medications, including antibiotics, flea/tick preventatives (parasiticides), and vaccines. In day-to-day practice, it’s also commonly given alongside NSAIDs for arthritis, antihistamines, anti‑seizure medications, and allergen immunotherapy; always capture the full med/supplement list and confirm with the veterinarian. ([zoetisus.com](https://www.zoetisus.com/content/pages/Products/Dogs/Apoquel-Resources/documents/apoquel_and_apoquel_chewable_combined_prescribing_information.pdf)) Flag combination use with other immune‑suppressing drugs. The label notes Apoquel has not been evaluated in combination with systemic immunosuppressants (for example, prednisone/prednisolone, cyclosporine) and these should be reviewed by a veterinarian; short‑term overlaps may be used only under a doctor’s plan. Also flag if the dog is receiving cancer therapies like tigilanol tiglate (Stelfonta). Because Apoquel modulates the immune system, promptly alert the medical team if the owner reports fever, draining sores, non‑healing wounds, or new/changing lumps—these warrant same‑day veterinary review. Your veterinarian can discuss risks and the safest plan. ([zoetisus.com](https://www.zoetisus.com/content/pages/Products/Dogs/Apoquel-Resources/documents/apoquel_and_apoquel_chewable_combined_prescribing_information.pdf)) Common OTC items owners may mention: antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine/Benadryl, cetirizine/Zyrtec), fish‑oil/omega‑3s, and probiotics—generally compatible but still document and defer to the veterinarian. If an owner reports giving any human pain reliever (ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen), treat as a potential toxin and direct immediate emergency care/poison control. ([vcahospitals.com](https://vcahospitals.com/foster/know-your-pet/oclacitinib?utm_source=openai))

Store Apoquel tablets at controlled room temperature (68–77°F). Short temperature excursions (59–104°F) are permitted during transport/handling. Keep the medication in its original labeled container and in a secure, childproof and pet‑proof location; do not leave it on counters, in purses, or backpacks. For use in dogs only. Handling reminders: Wash hands immediately after handling. If the medication contacts eyes, flush with water or saline for at least 15 minutes and seek medical care. If a person swallows Apoquel, call Poison Control at 1‑800‑222‑1222. If a pet or child accidentally ingests more than prescribed, contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control service (ASPCA APCC 888‑426‑4435; Pet Poison Helpline 855‑764‑7661) right away—treat this as urgent. Your veterinarian can advise next steps and answer storage/handling questions. Disposal: The U.S. label does not specify a special “after opening” shelf life; use until the printed expiration date unless your veterinarian directs otherwise. Do not repackage into unlabeled baggies. When disposing of unused or expired tablets, use a drug take‑back site or mail‑back program when available. If no take‑back option is available and the drug is not on the FDA flush list, mix tablets with an unappealing substance (e.g., used coffee grounds or cat litter), seal in a bag or container, and place in household trash. Your veterinarian can discuss local take‑back options.

There is no FDA-mandated lab test schedule for Apoquel. The product labeling advises that dogs on Apoquel should be monitored for infections and for new or changing skin lumps/growths because the medication affects the immune system. The veterinarian will set the exact timing of rechecks based on the pet’s history and response. For long‑term use, many veterinarians may recommend periodic bloodwork to ensure the medication is not causing issues such as low white blood cell counts and to keep an eye on overall health. Front desk: when a dog starts or continues Apoquel, book the recheck exactly as the doctor indicates in the chart and confirm whether routine bloodwork is requested. Ask owners to call the same day for signs of possible infection (fever, coughing, pus‑filled skin lesions), low energy with poor appetite, or any new or growing lumps; advise immediate emergency care for collapse, seizures, trouble breathing, or repeated vomiting/diarrhea. Your veterinarian can discuss the specific follow‑up plan and any labwork needs for each patient.

Apoquel (oclacitinib) is an Rx-only itch and allergy relief medication for dogs. It helps control itching from allergic dermatitis and control atopic dermatitis in dogs at least 12 months old; it is for dogs only. Your veterinarian can discuss whether Apoquel is appropriate for a specific dog and handle any refills or monitoring needs. Key safety points for calls: Do not use in puppies under 12 months or in dogs with serious infections. Apoquel can increase susceptibility to infections (including demodicosis) and may worsen pre-existing cancers; it has not been evaluated with certain other immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., steroids or cyclosporine). Common side effects reported include vomiting and diarrhea. Keep tablets secured and out of reach of pets and children; humans should wash hands after handling and seek medical attention if accidentally ingested. Your veterinarian can advise on interactions with other medicines, vaccines, or health conditions. Triage guidance: If a caller reports severe signs such as trouble breathing, facial swelling, collapse, seizures, or black/tarry stool, direct them to seek emergency care now. For persistent vomiting or diarrhea, profound lethargy, signs of infection (ear/skin), or new or changing lumps, arrange a same-day veterinary call-back or appointment. Phrases to avoid: “It’s safe to start/stop,” “Double the dose,” “It’s fine with all meds,” or “This will cure allergies.”