The constant sneezing and slimy runny nose that come with allergies are just lovely, aren’t they? The itching skin that covers your entire body is also quite the pleasure, I might add.
Our initial response whenever we anticipate having an allergic reaction, such as itchy skin, is to reach for allergy medications. Our lovable pet dog can develop allergies, and for the same reasons as us.
They may experience seasonal allergies, environmental allergies, drug-induced allergies, and food allergies. If your dog is in pain, you probably don’t know where to start to make that happen.
It only makes sense to give our dogs allergy medication as well since we take medications to prevent severe allergies, but which one is most effective for your itchy dog when they start to scratch?
The most likely cause of your pet’s constant scratching and itching is allergies. And if you take them to the veterinarian, Apoquel is typically recommended as a treatment for this. Apoquel works by blocking the allergic itch at its source. It’s one of many nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, so it lessens swelling and inflammation.
The drug Apoquel, which is sold under the brand name Oclacitinib and is distributed by Zoetis, is frequently used to treat the symptoms of atopic dermatitis, which are brought on by an allergic reaction.
It’s odd that when we turn on the television, we never miss an advertisement for an antihistamine.
But we ignore the fact that many dogs suffer from atopic dermatitis brought on by allergies, and the consequent scratching and itching can cause them significant pain and suffering. 10% of dogs have atopic dermatitis, an allergy that is chronic and untreatable and is brought on by an overactive immune system.
This statistic is even more alarming because it excludes skin reactions brought on by food, medications, or the environment.
Your dog’s quality of life may be diminished by atopic dermatitis, and their time with us is already limited. Pruritus, or the compulsive urge to scratch, can rip through a dog’s skin and make them miserable.
Now that we are aware of the significance of being constantly vigilant for allergic dermatitis, let’s look into treatments that can alleviate the pruritus and related skin lesions that are a part of canine skin allergies in dogs.
Apoquel is a vet-trusted solution to atopic dermatitis. The medication Apoquel has been demonstrated to significantly reduce the atopic dermatitis pain brought on by a constant itch during allergy testing trials.
One of the most frequently prescribed drugs for allergic dermatitis in dogs is apoquel oclacitinib, which reduces skin inflammation and itching. An Apoquel tablet will begin to work within 4 hours to stop an itching, and Apoquel will take anywhere between 12 and 24 hours to completely relieve this allergic skin condition.
The problem with this, though, is that an Apoquel tablet will need to be continuously administered to prevent allergic dermatitis. Even first-time users can report alarming side effects within 24 hours as Apoquel’s price is rising and side effects are developing.
Can I give my dog Apoquel and Zyrtec together?
The answer is yes. Zyrtec and Apoquel can be administered to dogs, but it is not advised. This is because the two drugs’ various mechanisms of action. They also have different side effects and adverse reactions. Therefore, combining them may raise the likelihood that these negative effects will occur.
ZYRTEC® is an antihistamine that can help alleviate allergy symptoms in dogs, such as itchy skin, scratching, runny eyes and nose, and other signs of discomfort.
Atopic dermatitis in dogs is treated with the drug APOQUEL® by reducing immune system activity. Additionally, it can be incorporated into a plan of care for conditions involving overactive immune systems, such as food allergies.
Unless your veterinarian approves, the FDA advises against taking any other medications at the same time as Apoquel.
For dogs with chronic itching brought on by seasonal or year-round allergies, flea allergy dermatitis, food allergies, or environmental allergies, the FDA has approved the once-daily medication apoquel.
Apoquel reviews are on the rise. In fact, over the past few months, its Chewy reviews have risen quickly, with an average rating of 4. 7 stars out of 5.
Apoquel is a safe and efficient remedy for allergic dogs, according to pet owners. Apoquel should not be administered to canines that are breeding, pregnant, or nursing, according to some reviewers.
Some claim that the capsules can upset some dogs’ stomachs, but this can be avoided by beginning with a lower dose and gradually increasing it as needed.
“It’s a very strong medication. It worked incredibly well for my dog when I used it. She stopped itching and overcame her allergies thanks to it. She became a little restless and was less active than usual, which was the only aspect I didn’t like. ”.
“It’s a great product to help prevent my dog from developing any new allergies,” Anyone who has a pet who is prone to allergies should try this product, in my opinion. ”.
Zyrtec is a good OTC medication for dogs. Both pet owners and veterinarians have long used it. The majority of reviews for this medication are favorable, but there are also some critical ones.
My dog is extremely sensitive and allergic to everything. He’s had a lot of negative drug reactions in the past, but he loves the Zyrtec tablets, so I’d definitely suggest them to other dog allergy owners. ”.
“I absolutely adore this product; it has done wonders for my dog’s seasonal allergies.” I will buy it again when needed. It is simple to use and works on several animals at once.
“This product worked great for my dog’s allergies, which caused him to scratch frequently.” I’m pleased I discovered it because it helped control his symptoms. ”.
“I was shocked at how well Zyrtec worked for my dog.” It’s also really simple to use and doesn’t smell as bad as other products do. He’s had allergies for years, but now he doesn’t have any bumps or sores on his nose anymore. ”.
What drugs should not be taken with Apoquel?
Apoquel should not be taken with cortisone-type medications or Atopica®. Cortisone-type medications include prednisone, methylprednisolone, and dexamethasone.
Before giving your dog Apoquel, consult your veterinarian if your dog is currently taking any of these medications.
Yes, you can give your dog both Benadryl and Apoquel at the same time. However, there are some safety measures that must be taken if you decide to administer both medications at once.
Be careful not to exceed recommended dosages as both medications must be administered exactly as directed on the packaging in order to prevent serious side effects in dogs, including death.
Cytopoint is better but it’s a matter of opinion. Some dogs will respond better to one drug than the other because they both work differently.
When administered in the proper dosages to dogs for brief periods of time, both medications are typically well tolerated by them. They may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Occasionally, they might result in allergic reactions like hives or vomiting.
Both medications are less likely to cause side effects than antihistamines or steroids (like prednisone), in addition to being safer than corticosteroids. However, before beginning treatment, you should talk to your veterinarian about any possible side effects.
What is the difference between APOQUEL and Cytopoint?
The main difference is the method of administration. An injection of Cytopoint is typically given once a month under the skin. Apoquel, on the other hand, requires daily oral dosing. Furthermore, Cytopoint was developed specifically to treat the itch brought on by atopic (environmental) allergies.
FAQ
Can my dog have Apoquel and Zyrtec?
Dogs are given Apoquel to treat allergic-related skin itch and inflammation. Compared to Zyrtec or CBD, Apoquel is linked to more side effects, some of which are very serious. If Zyrtec and CBD effectively reduce your dog’s itching and inflammation, either by themselves or in combination, they will probably be safer for him.
Can Apoquel be used with antihistamines?
Antibiotics, antifungals, antihistamines, topical steroids, allergy shots, and sublingual immunotherapy can all be combined with apoquel. Apoquel does not interfere with allergy testing.
What drugs should not be taken with Apoquel?
Without first consulting your veterinarian, avoid administering cortisone-type medications or Atopica® at the same time as Apoquel®. Does my dog need to undergo any tests before beginning Apoquel® treatment? No specific tests are required if your dog is otherwise healthy and in good condition.
Can a dog take Apoquel and Claritin?
Dogs can generally be safe around people and can get allergy relief from the human antihistamine Claritin (loratadine). But before giving your dog any human medications, you should always seek advice from your veterinarian. Additionally, the FDA has not approved Claritin and other human antihistamines for use in treating canine allergies.