Chewable Tablets for Canines: Apequel Review
Apoquel Chewable, a popular treatment for canine allergies, contains the active ingredient oclacitinib. This medication, which is available only by prescription, works at a cellular level to control itching and inflammation associated with allergic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis in dogs [1][2].
Apoquel Chewable inhibits Janus kinase (JAK) enzymes, selectively blocking JAK receptors that are critical components in the signaling pathways of cytokines that cause itching and inflammation. By inhibiting these enzymes, Apoquel disrupts the cellular communication that triggers allergic itch and skin inflammation, thereby reducing symptoms with minimal impact on the overall immune system [1][2].
The chewable form of Apoquel offers easier dosing and contains the same active ingredient as the traditional tablet. The recommended dose for dogs is 0.18 to 0.27 mg per pound of body weight [1][2]. Apoquel Chewable tablets are flavored with pork and liver to make them more palatable for dogs.
Apoquel Chewable starts working within about 4 hours and significantly reduces itch within 24 hours of administration. Side effects in dogs are rare, with common adverse events including vomiting, lethargy, decreased appetite, and blood work changes [1][2].
It is essential to store Apoquel Chewable at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Apoquel Chewable is a FDA-approved chewable treatment in the U.S. for controlling itching associated with allergic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis in dogs.
Apoquel Chewable targets specific cytokines that cause inflammation and itching in dogs, offering faster relief than steroids without many of their side effects [1][2]. The medication is effective for controlling itching caused by contact allergies, flea allergies, and food allergies.
Apoquel is not cleared by the FDA for use in cats, but some veterinarians may prescribe it off-label for cats with atopic dermatitis. It is crucial to talk to your veterinarian before using Apoquel with any other over-the-counter or prescription medication, as there are no known interactions between Apoquel and concurrent use of antihistamines.
Apoquel Chewable tablets are available in three doses: 3.6 mg, 5.4 mg, and 16 mg. To give Apoquel Chewable to a dog, follow a schedule of talking to a veterinarian about the proper dose, breaking the tablet in half if necessary, offering the tablet to the dog, ensuring the dog consumes the full prescribed dose, and repeating as directed by the veterinarian.
Signing up for an account with a platform can help set medication reminders for Apoquel Chewable tablets. Apoquel Chewable tablets can be purchased individually, in a 100-count (10×10) blister pack, or in 100- or 250-count bottles. The average shelf life for Apoquel chewable tablets is 24 months. Do not give Apoquel past the expiration date listed on the packaging.
For a more detailed comparison, read our articles on "Cytopoint vs. Apoquel: How They Work Against Dog Allergies" and "Apoquel vs. Zyrtec for Dogs: Comparison and Key Differences".
References: [1] Merck Animal Health. (2021). Apoquel Chewable for Dogs. Retrieved from https://www.merck-animal-health.com/products/apoquel-chewable-for-dogs [2] FDA. (2021). FDA approves new chewable treatment for canine itch. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/news-events/fda-approves-new-chewable-treatment-canine-itch
Science has shown that Apoquel Chewable, a treatment for canine allergies, targets specific cytokines that cause inflammation and itching in dogs, offering faster relief than steroids without many of their side effects [1][2]. For individuals seeking to improve their health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise routines, this drug provides relief to dogs suffering from allergies, thereby contributing positively to the wellbeing of pets.
