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)
Prednisone
Prednisone/Prednisolone
- Class: Corticosteroid
- Manufacturer: Various (generic)
- Onset: 1-2 hours
- Duration: 12-24 hours
- Cost: $5-20 per month (generic)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Apoquel | Prednisone |
|---|---|---|
| Effectiveness | Highly effective for itch | Very effective (broad action) |
| Long-term Safety | Safer for long-term use✓ | Significant long-term risks |
| Speed of Relief | Within 4 hours | 1-2 hours✓ |
| Side Effects | Mild (GI, infection risk)✓ | Significant (thirst, hunger, behavior, long-term organ damage) |
| Cost | $60-120/month | $5-20/month✓ |
| Mechanism | JAK inhibitor (targeted)✓ | Corticosteroid (broad immune suppression) |
How They Work
Apoquel
Blocks JAK1 and JAK3 enzymes that trigger itch signals
Prednisone
Suppresses immune system and inflammation broadly
Side Effects Comparison
Apoquel Side Effects
- •Vomiting
- •Diarrhea
- •Decreased appetite
- •Lethargy
- •Increased susceptibility to infections
Prednisone Side Effects
- •Increased thirst/urination
- •Increased appetite
- •Panting
- •Behavioral changes
- •Long-term: diabetes, Cushing's disease, immunosuppression
When to Choose Each Medication
Choose Apoquel if:
- ✓Long-term allergy management is needed
- ✓You want to avoid steroid side effects
- ✓Your dog needs ongoing treatment for months/years
- ✓Your dog has had issues with prednisone
- ✓Quality of life (no excessive thirst/urination) is important
Choose Prednisone if:
- ✓Short-term treatment is needed (1-2 weeks)
- ✓Cost is a significant concern
- ✓Treating conditions beyond allergies (autoimmune disease)
- ✓Apoquel is not available or not effective
- ✓Acute severe flare requires immediate broad control
Our Recommendation
Apoquel is the preferred choice for long-term allergy management due to its targeted mechanism and better safety profile. Prednisone may still be appropriate for short-term use or when cost is prohibitive.
Always consult with your veterinarian before starting, changing, or stopping any medication for your pet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Apoquel better than prednisone for dogs?
For long-term allergy management, Apoquel is generally considered better than prednisone. While both are effective at stopping itch, Apoquel has far fewer side effects and is safer for extended use. Prednisone can cause significant side effects including increased thirst/urination, weight gain, and long-term complications like diabetes or Cushing's disease.
Can I switch from prednisone to Apoquel?
Yes, dogs can be transitioned from prednisone to Apoquel, but this should be done under veterinary supervision. Prednisone often requires a gradual tapering schedule to avoid withdrawal effects. Your vet may overlap the medications briefly during the transition. Never stop prednisone suddenly without veterinary guidance.
Why do vets still prescribe prednisone over Apoquel?
Prednisone is still used because it's inexpensive, works quickly, and treats a wider range of conditions beyond just allergies (inflammation, immune disorders, certain cancers). It may be preferred for short-term acute flares or when cost is a major factor. For chronic allergy management, most vets now prefer Apoquel or Cytopoint.
Can Apoquel and prednisone be used together?
This combination is generally not recommended. Both medications suppress parts of the immune system, and using them together increases the risk of infections and other complications. If your dog needs to transition between medications, work closely with your veterinarian to do so safely.
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.