Apoquel Dosage For Dogs: Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Veterinarians typically recommend a dosage of 0.4-0.6 mg/kg twice daily for dogs aged 1 year or older when prescribing Apoquel® (oclacitinib) Chewable or Apoquel Tablets for up to 14 days. This medication can be administered with or without food, depending on the preference of the pet owner.

As pet owners, ensuring the well-being of our furry companions is a top priority. Finding effective treatment options becomes crucial when faced with issues like allergic or atopic dermatitis, which can cause constant itching and discomfort in dogs.

One such medication that has gained significant attention in recent years is Apoquel (oclacitinib). Developed to alleviate itching and inflammation associated with allergic skin conditions in canines, understanding the appropriate dosage of Apoquel is essential for ensuring its efficacy and safety.

This blog post will delve into the recommended dosage of Apoquel for dogs, exploring factors such as dosing frequency, administration guidelines, and considerations for different breeds and sizes.

By gaining insight into proper dosage practices, pet owners can confidently navigate the journey towards providing relief for their beloved canine companions.

Apoquel Dosage For Dogs

The dosage of Apoquel for dogs varies depending on their weight and the severity of their allergic reactions, and a veterinarian should always determine it.

Typically, Apoquel is prescribed at a dosage of 0.4-0.6 mg/kg of the dog’s body weight for dogs aged 1 year or older, administered twice daily for up to 14 days. The dosage ranges apply to different weight categories. It’s essential to strictly adhere to the veterinarian’s instructions and not exceed the recommended dosage.

Apoquel (oclacitinib) should only be given under veterinary supervision, as it can interact with other medications or underlying health conditions.

Consulting with a veterinarian ensures the proper and safe administration of Apoquel to alleviate itching and inflammation caused by pup allergies.

Apoquel Dosage Chart For Dogs By Weight

Dog Weight (kg)	Dog Weight (lbs)	Apoquel® Lower Dose (0.4 mg/kg)	Apoquel® Higher Dose (0.6 mg/kg)
4	10	1.8 mg	2.7 mg
9	20	3.6 mg	5.4 mg
13	30	5.4 mg	8.1 mg
18	40	7.2 mg	10.8 mg
22	50	9.1 mg	13.6 mg
27	60	10.9 mg	16.3 mg
32	70	12.7 mg	19.1 mg
36	80	14.5 mg	21.8 mg
40	90	16.4 mg	24.5 mg
45	100	18.2 mg	27.3 mg

The above Apoquel® (oclacitinib) dosage chart for dogs by weight is provided for educational purposes only and should not substitute for veterinary advice. Always start with the minimum dose until your veterinarian prescribes an increase in dosage.

Apoquel® 3.6 mg, 5.4 mg, 16 mg Dosage Chart For Dogs

Dog Weight (lbs)	Dog Weight (kg)	Apoquel® 3.6 mg (Tablets Required)	Apoquel® 5.4 mg (Tablets Required)	Apoquel® 16 mg (Tablets Required)
6-9.9	2.7-4.5 kg	1/2 Tablet	–	–
10-14.9	4.5-6.8 kg	–	1/2 Tablet	–
15-19.9	6.8-9 kg	1 Tablet	–	–
20-29.9	9-13.6 kg	–	1 Tablet	–
30-44.9	13.6-20.4 kg	1/2 Tablet	–	1/2 Tablet
54-59.9	24.5-27.2 kg	–	1/2 Tablet	1/2 Tablet
60-89.9	27.2-40.8 kg	–	–	1 Tablet
90-129.9	40.8-59 kg	–	–	1+1/2 Tablet
130-175.9	59-79.8 kg	–	–	2 Tablets

Apoquel Uses in Dogs

Apoquel is a medication commonly used in dogs to treat itching and inflammation caused by allergic skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis and allergic dermatitis.

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin disease characterized by itching, scratching, redness, and inflammation. Allergic dermatitis can be caused by various allergens such as flea bites, environmental allergens like pollen or dust mites, or food allergies.

Prednisone Side Effects in Dogs

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Decreased appetite
Lethargy (excessive tiredness or lack of energy)
Skin infections
Ear infections
Respiratory infections
Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
Pawing at the face or rubbing the face on surfaces (may indicate discomfort or irritation)
Increased susceptibility to other infections due to suppression of the immune system
Lymphadenopathy (enlargement of lymph nodes)
Increased liver enzyme levels (detected through blood tests)
Increased serum cholesterol and lipase levels
Gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intestines)
Weight gain

Which Dogs Should Not Take Oclacitinib.

Canines with the following health issues should not take oclacitinib without veterinary recommendations.

Pre-existing infections
Systemic diseases (e.g., cancer, autoimmune disorders, severe liver or kidney disease)
Young puppies (under 12 months old)
Pregnant or nursing dogs
History of cancer
Hypersensitivity or allergic reaction to oclacitinib or its ingredients

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