Calculate Apoquel Dosage for Dogs
Important: The dosage recommendations provided are general guidelines. Always consult your veterinarian to determine the most appropriate dosage and frequency for your dog's specific condition.
Apoquel has become a popular medication for dogs dealing with allergic skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis and pruritus. It’s designed to provide relief from itching and inflammation caused by various allergies, giving dogs a chance to enjoy a better quality of life. For pet owners looking to understand the correct dosage, side effects and how to use the medication, this guide will provide all the essential information, along with instructions on using an Apoquel Dog Dosage Calculator.
Explore our other Dog Dosage Calculator.
Apoquel for Dogs
Apoquel, also known by its generic name oclacitinib, is a prescription medication used to treat itching and inflammation associated with allergic skin conditions in dogs. It works by targeting specific enzymes involved in the body’s allergic response, which helps reduce the symptoms of itching and inflammation.
Unlike traditional allergy medications, Apoquel does not cause drowsiness, making it a more attractive option for many pet owners. It’s commonly prescribed for dogs with seasonal allergies, food allergies and atopic dermatitis, a chronic skin condition caused by hypersensitivity to environmental allergens.
FDA Dosage of Apoquel for dogs
According to FDA, dosage of APOQUEL (oclacitinib maleate) tablets ranges from 0.18 to 0.27 mg per pound (or 0.4 to 0.6 mg per kilogram) of your dog’s body weight. This medication should be given by mouth twice daily for the first 14 days to control symptoms effectively. After this initial period, the dosage is typically reduced to once a day for ongoing maintenance. APOQUEL can be given with or without food, making it a flexible option for your dog’s treatment plan.
Apoquel for Dogs Dosage Chart
When it comes to administering Apoquel, dosage is critical. The recommended dosage for Apoquel is based on the dog’s weight and it is typically given as an oral tablet. The standard Apoquel for dogs dosage is 0.18 to 0.27 mg per pound of body weight, administered twice daily for up to 14 days, and then once daily for maintenance.
Below Apoquel dog dosage Chart is provided by zoetisus.com.
| Weight Range (lbs) | Weight Range (kg) | Number of Tablets to be Administered | 3.6 mg Tablets | 5.4 mg Tablets | 16 mg Tablets |
| 6.6 – 9.9 | 3.0 – 4.4 | 0.5 Tablets | 0.5 | – | – |
| 10.0 – 14.9 | 4.5 – 5.9 | 0.5 Tablets | – | 0.5 | – |
| 15.0 – 19.9 | 6.0 – 8.9 | 1 Tablet | 1 | – | – |
| 20.0 – 29.9 | 9.0 – 13.4 | 1 Tablet | – | 1 | – |
| 30.0 – 44.9 | 13.5 – 19.9 | 0.5 Tablets | – | – | 0.5 |
| 45.0 – 59.9 | 20.0 – 26.9 | 2 Tablets | – | 2 | – |
| 60.0 – 89.9 | 27.0 – 39.9 | 1 Tablet | – | – | 1 |
| 90.0 – 129.9 | 40.0 – 54.9 | 1.5 Tablets | – | – | 1.5 |
| 130.0 – 175.9 | 55.0 – 80.0 | 2 Tablets | – | – | 2 |
Explanation of Apoquel Dog Dosage Chart
- 3.6 mg Tablets: These are used for small dogs, typically weighing between 6.6 and 19.9 pounds (3.0 to 8.9 kg). Depending on the weight, the dog may receive half or a full tablet.
- 5.4 mg Tablets: These are intended for dogs in the mid-weight range, from 10.0 to 29.9 pounds (4.5 to 13.4 kg). As with the smaller dose, the number of tablets administered will depend on the dog’s specific weight.
- 16 mg Tablets: These are used for larger dogs, typically weighing 30 pounds (13.5 kg) and above. The number of tablets administered will increase as the dog’s weight increases, with dogs over 130 pounds receiving two tablets.
Warnings
- Not for Puppies: APOQUEL should not be given to dogs under 12 months old.
- Immune System Impact: APOQUEL influences the immune system, so it’s not suitable for dogs with serious infections.
- Infection Risk: The medication can increase susceptibility to infections, including demodicosis (a mite-related skin disease).
- Cancer Concerns: APOQUEL may worsen neoplastic conditions (tumors), both benign and malignant, as seen in clinical studies.
- Evaluate Risks: Assess the risks versus benefits before using APOQUEL, especially in dogs with a history of recurring infections, demodicosis, or cancer.
- Secure Storage: Store APOQUEL in a safe place to prevent accidental ingestion or overdose by dogs, cats, or other animals.
Apoquel Side Effects
While Apoquel is an effective medication for treating allergic conditions in dogs, it’s important to be aware of the potential Apoquel side effects. Like any medication, Apoquel can cause side effects in some dogs. The most common side effects include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Increased susceptibility to infections
- Skin irritation or worsening of existing skin conditions
If you notice any unusual symptoms in your dog after starting Apoquel, it’s essential to contact your veterinarian immediately. They may need to adjust the dosage or discontinue the medication depending on the severity of the side effects.
How to Use Apoquel Dog Dosage Calculator
The Apoquel Dog Dosage Calculator is a helpful tool for pet owners to determine the correct dosage of Apoquel based on their dog’s weight. Here’s a complete guide on how to use the apoquel dog dosage calculator:
- Enter Your Dog’s Weight: Start by entering your dog’s weight in either pounds or kilograms. The calculator will automatically convert the weight to the appropriate unit if necessary.
- Select the Weight Unit: Choose whether your dog’s weight is measured in pounds or kilograms.
- Select the Dosage Condition: The calculator may provide dosage recommendations for different conditions, such as atopic dermatitis or seasonal allergies. Select the condition being treated to get the most accurate dosage.
- Click Calculate: Once you entered all the information about your dog, click the “Calculate” button. The calculator will then display the recommended dosage of Apoquel for your dog based on the information provided.
- Review Dosage and Frequency: The calculator will not only give you the correct dosage in milligrams but also recommend the frequency of administration.
- Consult Your Veterinarian: While the calculator provides a general guideline for Apoquel dosage, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian before administering any medication to your dog. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your dog’s health, condition, and specific needs.
Is Apoquel Right for Your Dog?
Deciding whether Apoquel for dogs is the right treatment depends on various factors. If your dog suffers from chronic itching due to allergies, atopic dermatitis, or other skin conditions, Apoquel could provide much-needed relief. However, like any medication, there are potential risks and side effects, so it’s essential to weigh the benefits against the potential downsides.
Here are a few things to consider before starting your dog on Apoquel:
- Consult Your Veterinarian: Your vet is the best source of information regarding whether Apoquel is appropriate for your dog. They can assess your dog’s health, the severity of their condition, and recommend the right treatment plan.
- Evaluate Long-Term Use: While Apoquel is safe for short-term use, its long-term effects are still being studied. Some dogs may require lifelong treatment for chronic conditions, so discussing the risks and benefits of long-term use with your vet is essential.
- Monitor for Side Effects: Keep a close eye on your dog for any signs of Apoquel side effects after starting the medication. If your dog experiences severe or persistent side effects, contact your vet immediately.
Conclusion
Apoquel is a highly effective treatment option for dogs suffering from allergic skin conditions. It provides rapid relief from itching and inflammation, allowing dogs to live more comfortably. However, like any medication, it’s essential to use it correctly and under the guidance of your veterinarian.
The Apoquel Dog Dosage Calculator can help pet owners determine the appropriate dosage based on their dog’s weight but it’s always a good idea to consult your vet for personalized recommendations. By understanding the correct dosage, potential Apoquel side effects and how to use the medication safely, you can help ensure your dog gets the relief they need without unnecessary risks.
Sources and References
- FDA APOQUEL- oclacitinib maleate tablet
- Zoetisus Apoquel (oclacitinib tablets)
- Cosgrove SB, Wren JA, Cleaver DM, Walsh KF, Follis SI, King VI, Tena JK, Stegemann MR. A blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of the efficacy and safety of the Janus kinase inhibitor oclacitinib (Apoquel®) in client-owned dogs with atopic dermatitis. Vet Dermatol. 2013 Dec;24(6):587-97, e141-2. doi: 10.1111/vde.12088. PMID: 24581322; PMCID: PMC4286885.
- Gadeyne C, Little P, King VL, Edwards N, Davis K, Stegemann MR. Efficacy of oclacitinib (Apoquel®) compared with prednisolone for the control of pruritus and clinical signs associated with allergic dermatitis in client-owned dogs in Australia. Vet Dermatol. 2014 Dec;25(6):512-8, e86. doi: 10.1111/vde.12166. Epub 2014 Aug 11. PMID: 25109820; PMCID: PMC4282467.
