Apoquel Tablets
Description
Apoquel tablets contain the drug Oclacitinib. They are licensed for the treatment of pruritus associated with allergic dermatitis and the treatment of clinical manifestations of atopic dermatitis in dogs.
This is a prescription only medication and as such must be used as directed by the prescribing veterinary surgeon.
Mode of action:
Oclacitinib is a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor. It can inhibit the function of a variety of cytokines dependent on JAK enzyme activity. For oclacitinib, the target cytokines are those that are proinflammatory or have a role in allergic responses/pruritis (itchiness!).
Warnings:
Oclacitinib alters the immune system and may increase susceptibility to infection and exacerbate cancers. Dogs receiving Apoquel tablets should therefore be monitored for the development of infections and cancers.
When treating pruritus associated with allergic dermatitis with oclacitinib, investigate and treat any underlying causes (e.g. flea allergic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, food hypersensitivity). Furthermore, in cases of allergic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis, it is recommended to investigate and treat complicating factors, such as bacterial, fungal or parasitic infections/infestations (e.g. flea and mange).
Link to the full product overview for Apoquel
https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/product-information/apoquel-epar-product-information_en.pdf
Category POM-V
Sold as individual tablets