Apoquel Dosage: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Apoquel (oclacitinib maleate) is a prescription medication used to treat allergic dermatitis in dogs. It is an oral tablet that works by blocking the action of certain cytokines, which are molecules that trigger inflammation. Apoquel is a safe and effective treatment for allergic dermatitis, and it can significantly reduce the signs and symptoms of the condition.

Apoquel Dosage

The recommended Apoquel dosage for dogs is 0.4-0.6 mg/kg of body weight, given twice daily. The dose should be adjusted based on the dog's weight, and it is important to follow the veterinarian's instructions carefully.

Table 1: Apoquel Dosage for Dogs

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The following sections will provide more information on Apoquel dosage, including how to calculate the dose, what to do if you miss a dose, and how to store Apoquel.

How to Calculate the Apoquel Dose

To calculate the Apoquel dose for your dog, you will need to know your dog's weight in kilograms. Once you have your dog's weight, you can use the following formula to calculate the dose:

Apoquel Dose (mg) = Dog's Weight (kg) x 0.4-0.6

For example, if your dog weighs 20 kg, the Apoquel dose would be 8-12 mg, given twice daily.

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It is important to note that the Apoquel dose may need to be adjusted based on your dog's response to the medication. If your dog is not responding to the medication, your veterinarian may increase the dose. Conversely, if your dog is experiencing side effects from the medication, your veterinarian may decrease the dose.

What to Do If You Miss a Dose

If you miss a dose of Apoquel, give the missed dose as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and give the next dose at the regular time. Do not give your dog two doses at once.

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It is important to give Apoquel to your dog at the same time each day. This will help to maintain a consistent level of medication in your dog's body and ensure that the medication is effective.

How to Store Apoquel

Apoquel should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep Apoquel out of reach of children and pets.

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The following sections will provide more information on Apoquel, including its side effects, precautions, and interactions with other medications.

Side Effects of Apoquel

The most common side effects of Apoquel include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Decreased appetite
• Increased thirst
• Urinary tract infections

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These side effects are usually mild and will go away within a few days. However, if your dog experiences any severe side effects, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.

Precautions

Apoquel should not be used in dogs with:

• A history of seizures
• Liver disease
• Kidney disease
• A compromised immune system
• Dogs under 12 months of age

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It is important to talk to your veterinarian before giving Apoquel to your dog if they have any of these conditions.

Interactions with Other Medications

Apoquel may interact with other medications, including:

• Antifungal medications
• Antibiotics
• Steroids
• NSAIDs

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It is important to tell your veterinarian about all of the medications that your dog is taking before starting Apoquel.

Stories

The following stories illustrate how Apoquel can help dogs with allergic dermatitis:

• Story 1: Buddy is a 3-year-old golden retriever who has suffered from allergic dermatitis for most of his life. He has tried a variety of treatments, but nothing has worked. Buddy's veterinarian prescribed Apoquel, and within a few days, his symptoms started to improve. Buddy is now able to live a normal life, free from the itching and discomfort of allergic dermatitis.
• Story 2: Bella is a 2-year-old pit bull who has recently developed allergic dermatitis. She is constantly scratching and licking herself, and she has lost a lot of fur. Bella's veterinarian prescribed Apoquel, and within a few weeks, her symptoms started to improve. Bella is now much more comfortable, and her fur is starting to grow back.
• Story 3: Charlie is a 1-year-old beagle who has been diagnosed with atopic dermatitis. He is allergic to a variety of things, including dust mites, pollen, and grass. Charlie's veterinarian prescribed Apoquel, and within a few days, his symptoms started to improve. Charlie is now able to enjoy playing outside and going for walks without experiencing severe itching and discomfort.

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These stories demonstrate how Apoquel can help dogs with allergic dermatitis live more comfortable and active lives.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are a few common mistakes that people make when giving Apoquel to their dogs. These mistakes include:

• Giving the wrong dose. It is important to give your dog the correct dose of Apoquel, as directed by your veterinarian. Giving your dog too much Apoquel can lead to side effects.
• Missing doses. It is important to give Apoquel to your dog at the same time each day. Missing doses can reduce the effectiveness of the medication.
• Stopping the medication too soon. It is important to continue giving Apoquel to your dog for as long as your veterinarian recommends. Stopping the medication too soon can cause your dog's symptoms to return.

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By avoiding these common mistakes, you can help your dog get the most benefit from Apoquel.

How to Approach Giving Your Dog Apoquel

Step 1: Talk to Your Veterinarian

The first step is to talk to your veterinarian about Apoquel. They can help you determine if Apoquel is the right medication for your dog and can prescribe the correct dose.

Step 2: Give Your Dog Apoquel

Give Apoquel to your dog at the same time each day, as directed by your veterinarian. You can give Apoquel with or without food.

Step 3: Monitor Your Dog

Monitor your dog for any side effects. If your dog experiences any severe side effects, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Step 4: Continue Giving Apoquel

Continue giving Apoquel to your dog for as long as your veterinarian recommends. Stopping the medication too soon can cause your dog's symptoms to return.

Call to Action

If you are considering giving Apoquel to your dog, talk to your veterinarian today. Apoquel can be a safe and effective treatment for allergic dermatitis, and it can help your dog live a more comfortable and active life.