Apoquel for Dogs
Vet-reviewed by Dr. Pippa Elliott, BVMS MRCVS ·
What is Apoquel for Dogs and Cats
Overview
Apoquel for dogs is an FDA approved prescription medication used to control itching from allergic dermatitis and manage atopic dermatitis in dogs at least 12 months of age. It provides fast relief, often within 24 hours, and is especially helpful for environmental allergies that cannot be avoided, such as pollen or grasses. Veterinarians may also use Apoquel off label in cats for similar skin conditions. Because it suppresses part of the immune system, vets often monitor blood work and watch for infection risks during long term use. Oclacitinib is the active ingredient in Apoquel, and many pet owners compare the two when choosing an allergy treatment. Learn more about Oclacitinib for dogs here.
Explore more skin-related medications in our Dermatology section.
What Is Apoquel for Dogs Used For
| Condition | Notes |
|---|---|
| Control of Pruritus (Itching) | FDA approved for dogs at least 12 months of age to control itching from allergic dermatitis. Apoquel works quickly, often reducing itch within 24 hours by blocking IL-31, the cytokine responsible for the sensation of itch. |
| Atopic Dermatitis (AD) | FDA approved for managing atopic dermatitis in dogs. Helpful for environmental allergies such as pollen or grasses. Long-term use has been shown to be effective and improve quality of life. |
| Off-Label Use in Cats | Not FDA approved for cats, but may be used to manage atopic dermatitis and other immune mediated skin diseases. Some cats require higher or more frequent dosing. Studies show about two-thirds respond well. |
| Dermatologic Disorders | Indicated for managing various skin conditions with inflammation, redness, or itching. |
| Possible Mobility Improvement | Some vets report improved mobility in arthritic dogs, possibly because reducing skin inflammation helps dogs feel more comfortable overall. |
How Apoquel Works
Apoquel works by targeting the key enzyme (Janus Kinase-1 or JAK1) involved in triggering itch and inflammation in dogs. By blocking this pathway, Apoquel quickly interrupts the signals that cause allergic itching and redness. This allows it to relieve symptoms fast without the broad immune-suppressing effects seen in traditional steroids.
Drug Facts
Apoquel for dogs is an oral prescription medication that contains oclacitinib, a JAK inhibitor used to manage allergic skin conditions. It is FDA approved for dogs at least 12 months of age and is prescribed to control itching from allergic dermatitis and to help manage atopic dermatitis. Apoquel is typically given once or twice daily as directed by your veterinarian and can be used alongside other allergy treatments as part of a long-term management plan.
Common Brands
Apoquel® (oclacitinib)
Drug Class
Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitor and immune suppressant medication
Substance Classification
Not a controlled medication
Generic Status
No lower cost generic version
Availability
Prescription only
Apoquel Dosage Forms
Apoquel for dogs is an oral medication available as standard tablets and chewable tablets. The oral tablets come in 3.6 mg, 5.4 mg, and 16 mg strengths, allowing veterinarians to choose the appropriate dose based on a dog’s weight and treatment plan.
Ointment Tube
| Qty/Size | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|
| 3.6 mg | $1.50 | $1.50 |
| 5.4 mg | $2.10 | $2.10 |
| 16 mg | $2.90 | $2.90 |
Typical Dosing For Apoquel
Unlike topical medications, Apoquel for dogs is dosed by weight (mg/kg). It is typically given once or twice daily as directed by your veterinarian, depending on whether the dog is starting treatment or transitioning to long-term control. Tablets can be given with or without food, and dosing frequency may be adjusted based on your dog’s response to allergy management.
Oral Tablets
| Group | Severity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dogs (FDA Approved) | Initial Treatment | 0.4–0.6 mg/kg twice daily for up to 14 days. |
| Dogs (FDA Approved) | Mild Inflammations | 0.4–0.6 mg/kg once daily. |
| Dogs (Off-Label) | Severe Conditions | Some dogs may stay on twice daily dosing long term, but this is off label and used cautiously. |
| Cats (Off-Label) | Severe Conditions | Cats often require higher or more frequent doses than dogs. Apoquel is not FDA approved for cats. |
Important Note: The frequency of treatment may be decreased as improvement occurs. Pet owners must always follow their veterinarian’s instructions exactly as directed for the application and dosage schedule.
Risks and Warnings for Apoquel
Apoquel for dogs is generally well tolerated, but because it works by suppressing parts of the immune system, several important precautions must be followed to ensure safe use. The main concerns involve infection risks, age restrictions, cancer progression, and the need for regular monitoring. Always review your dog's medical history with your veterinarian before starting treatment.
Young Dogs and Contraindicated Groups
Apoquel has specific situations where it should not be used. Your veterinarian will determine if Apoquel is appropriate based on your dog's age, reproductive status, and health conditions.
- Not for dogs younger than 12 months, since young dogs have shown higher rates of pneumonia and demodicosis in safety studies.
- Not recommended for breeding dogs, pregnant dogs, or nursing mothers.
- Avoid use in dogs with serious infections.
- Use caution in dogs with untreated parasitic disease, fungal disease, or certain autoimmune conditions.
Since Apoquel works by altering immune activity, some dogs may become more susceptible to infections or experience worsening of certain conditions.
Risks Related to Immune Suppression
- Higher likelihood of skin infections, urinary tract infections, ear infections, and Demodex mite overgrowth.
- Worsening of pre existing cancers, since Apoquel may allow some tumors or skin masses to progress.
- Increased occurrence of viral papillomas or slow resolution of existing papillomas.
Contact your veterinarian if your dog develops new skin lumps, infections, or unusual symptoms during treatment.
Common Side Effects
Apoquel is usually well tolerated. Most side effects are mild and manageable, especially compared to steroids.
- Vomiting or diarrhea.
- Decreased appetite or lethargy.
- Infections, including UTIs, otitis, and pyoderma.
- Rare occurrences of pneumonia or bloody diarrhea.
- Occasional weight gain.
Report any persistent or concerning symptoms to your veterinarian promptly.
Drug Interactions and Dosing Precautions
Apoquel should be used exactly as prescribed and not combined with certain medications unless your veterinarian advises otherwise.
- Not evaluated when used with other systemic immunosuppressants such as steroids or cyclosporine.
- FDA approved dosing is twice daily for up to 14 days, then once daily for maintenance.
- Long term twice daily dosing is considered off label and may increase side effect risks.
- Overdoses can lead to immune suppression, gastrointestinal upset, enlarged lymph nodes, and skin inflammation or growths.
Always follow your veterinarian's dosing instructions and avoid changing the schedule without guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Apoquel for Dogs?
Apoquel for dogs is a prescription medication used to control allergic itching and manage atopic dermatitis.
How much is Apoquel for Dogs?
Apoquel for dogs typically costs between one and three dollars per tablet, depending on the tablet strength and retailer.
Is Apoquel Safe for Dogs?
Apoquel is considered safe for most adult dogs when used as prescribed, although monitoring is important because it suppresses part of the immune system.
What is Apoquel Used for in Dogs?
Apoquel is used to relieve itching caused by allergic dermatitis and to control the symptoms of atopic dermatitis.
Related Medications & Supplements
Dogs with allergies often benefit from a combination of therapies. In addition to Apoquel for dogs, these medications and supplements may play a role in helping manage itchiness and skin irritation.
- Oclacitinib for dogs – generic form of Apoquel
- Lokivetmab for dogs – injectable option for long-lasting itch relief
- Fish oil for dogs – omega-3 support for skin and coat health
- Omega-3 fatty acids for dogs – anti-inflammatory supplement often used with allergy medications
References
- BMC Veterinary Research. The effects of oclacitinib treatment on antimicrobial usage in dogs with allergic skin diseases. https://bmcvetres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12917-022-03255-y
- JAVMA (Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association). Oclacitinib 10 years later: lessons learned and directions for the future.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36944222/
- MDPI – Animals Journal. Dog owners’ perceptions of the convenience and value of chewable oclacitinib: quantitative survey data from an international survey.https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/14/6/952
- PubMed – Veterinary Dermatology. Long-term compassionate use of oclacitinib in dogs with atopic and allergic skin disease: safety, efficacy and quality of life.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25688708/
- PubMed Central (PMC). An update on the symptomatic treatment of canine atopic dermatitis.https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6091120/
Editor
The Webvet Editorial Team is a collective of seasoned pet-care journalists, veterinary content specialists, and industry editors dedicated to delivering accurate, trustworthy, and compassionate pet health information. With decades of combined experience across veterinary reporting, pet wellness education, and consumer product research, our team works closely with veterinarians and certified pet experts to ensure every article is both evidence-based and easy to understand.
Veterinarian · BVMS MRCVS
Dr. Pippa Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a veterinarian with nearly 30 years of experience in companion animal practice. Dr. Elliott earned her Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery from the University of Glasgow. She was also designated a Member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. Married with 2 grown-up kids, Dr. Elliott has a naughty Puggle named Poggle, 3 cats and a bearded dragon.
