Apoquel
Oclacitinib maleate
- Class: Janus Kinase (JAK) Inhibitor
- Manufacturer: Zoetis
- Onset: Within 4 hours
- Duration: 12-24 hours per dose
- Cost: $2-4 per tablet ($60-120/month)
Atopica
Cyclosporine
- Class: Immunosuppressant (Calcineurin Inhibitor)
- Manufacturer: Elanco
- Onset: 4-8 weeks for full effect
- Duration: Long-acting with daily dosing
- Cost: $50-200 per month
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Apoquel | Atopica |
|---|---|---|
| Speed of Relief | Within 4 hours✓ | 4-8 weeks for full effect |
| Effectiveness | Highly effective | Very effective (takes time) |
| Side Effects | GI issues, infection risk | GI issues, gum overgrowth, warts |
| Long-term Use | Generally safe long-term✓ | Safe but slower to show effect |
| Cost | $60-120/month | $50-200/month |
| Administration | Daily tablet (with or without food)✓ | Daily capsule (empty stomach preferred) |
How They Work
Apoquel
Blocks JAK1 and JAK3 enzymes that trigger itch signals
Atopica
Inhibits T-cell activation and cytokine production
Side Effects Comparison
Apoquel Side Effects
- •Vomiting
- •Diarrhea
- •Decreased appetite
- •Lethargy
- •Increased susceptibility to infections
Atopica Side Effects
- •Vomiting
- •Diarrhea
- •Gingival hyperplasia
- •Papillomatosis
When to Choose Each Medication
Choose Apoquel if:
- ✓You need fast relief (within hours)
- ✓Seasonal or intermittent allergies
- ✓Your dog needs flexible dosing
- ✓Starting a new allergy treatment
- ✓Your dog can take medication with food
Choose Atopica if:
- ✓Apoquel hasn't been effective
- ✓Your dog has adverse effects with Apoquel
- ✓Veterinarian recommends immune modulation
- ✓Long-term stable therapy is established
- ✓Your dog has concurrent conditions benefiting from Atopica
Our Recommendation
Apoquel is typically the first choice due to its rapid onset of action. Atopica remains a valuable alternative for dogs who don't respond to Apoquel or when a different mechanism is desired.
Always consult with your veterinarian before starting, changing, or stopping any medication for your pet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which works better: Apoquel or Atopica?
Both are effective for treating canine atopic dermatitis, but they work differently. Apoquel provides rapid relief (within hours) by blocking itch signals. Atopica modifies the immune response but takes 4-8 weeks to reach full effect. Most dogs and owners prefer Apoquel due to its fast action, but Atopica may be preferred for certain dogs or combined with Apoquel during the waiting period.
Can my dog take Apoquel and Atopica together?
Using Apoquel and Atopica together is sometimes done under veterinary supervision, particularly during the transition period while waiting for Atopica to take effect. However, both suppress aspects of the immune system, so close monitoring is needed. Never combine medications without your veterinarian's approval.
Why would a vet prescribe Atopica over Apoquel?
Atopica may be prescribed if: (1) Apoquel hasn't been effective, (2) the dog has conditions where Atopica's immune-modulating effects are beneficial, (3) the dog doesn't tolerate Apoquel well, or (4) the veterinarian wants to try a different mechanism of action. Atopica has been used successfully for decades for canine atopic dermatitis.
Is Apoquel safer than Atopica?
Both medications have similar safety profiles with different specific concerns. Apoquel may increase infection risk and is not for dogs under 12 months. Atopica can cause gingival hyperplasia (gum overgrowth) and papillomas (warts). Neither is definitively safer; the choice depends on your individual dog's health status and risk factors.
Other Drug Comparisons
Need to Calculate Apoquel Dosage?
Use our free calculator to determine the correct Apoquel dose for your dog.
Apoquel Dosage Calculator →Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Apoquel (oclacitinib) is a prescription medication that should only be used under the guidance of a licensed veterinarian. Do not administer Apoquel without a valid prescription. Always consult with your veterinarian before starting, changing, or stopping any medication for your pet. The creators of this calculator assume no responsibility for decisions made based on this information.