Dog allergies are a common yet distressing issue for both pets and their owners. One popular medication prescribed by veterinarians to manage these allergies is Apoquel. This post will delve into why Apoquel is used, its benefits, potential side effects, and explore alternative treatments, including the innovative use of insect protein diets for dogs with allergies.
What is Apoquel?
Apoquel (oclacitinib) is a medication specifically designed to control pruritus (itching) associated with allergic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis in dogs. It works by inhibiting certain enzymes called Janus kinases (JAKs), which play a role in the inflammatory process that causes itching and inflammation.
Benefits of Apoquel
- According to the manufacturer, Apoquel starts to relieve itching within 4 hours and controls it for 24 hours.
- It specifically targets the pathways causing itching and inflammation without broadly suppressing the immune system.
- It can be used for both short-term and long-term management of allergic conditions.
Potential Side Effects
Like any medication, Apoquel comes with potential side effects, which may include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Increased susceptibility to infections
- Potential impact on long-term health (e.g., susceptibility to neoplasia - A neoplasm is an abnormal growth of cells, also known as a tumor)
Alternatives to Apoquel
While Apoquel is effective, it might not be suitable for all dogs, prompting the need for alternative treatments.
- Antihistamines
Antihistamines such as Benadryl (diphenhydramine) are commonly used for managing mild allergic reactions. They are less effective for severe allergies but can be beneficial in conjunction with other treatments.
- Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids like prednisone are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs that can provide relief from severe allergic reactions. However, they come with significant side effects, especially with long-term use.
- Immunotherapy
Allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT) involves exposing the dog to gradually increasing amounts of allergens to build tolerance. This can be in the form of injections or oral drops and is tailored to the individual dog’s specific allergies. Expensive and not always effective.
- Alternative Protein Diets
One promising alternative treatment for dog allergies, particularly food allergies, is the use of alternative protein diets. These diets can help manage and alleviate allergy symptoms. An alternative protein that is particularly promising is insect protein.
Insect Protein Diets
Insect protein is emerging as an innovative and sustainable option for dogs with allergies. Here’s why it can be beneficial:
- Hypoallergenic: Insect proteins, such as those derived from black soldier flies, are novel proteins for most dogs, meaning they have a lower likelihood of triggering allergic reactions.
- Immune System Boost: Dogs eating an insect diet have experienced exciting benefits like better immune and inflammatory responses and improved antioxidative capacity.
- Improves Skin & Coat: Dogs on a diet with 29.5% BSFL meal (this is the amount of BSFL in Jiminy’s Good Grub Dog Food) had reduced water loss in their skin and improved skin hydration.
- Nutrient-Rich: Insect protein is highly digestible and packed with essential nutrients, making it a suitable alternative to traditional protein sources.
- Environmental Impact: Insect farming is more sustainable and environmentally friendly compared to conventional livestock farming.
Conclusion
Apoquel is widely used in the management of allergic dermatitis in dogs, providing relief from itching and inflammation. However, it’s essential to consider each dog’s unique needs and potential side effects when choosing a treatment plan. Exploring alternatives like antihistamines, corticosteroids, immunotherapy, and especially innovative solutions like insect protein diets can offer comprehensive care and improve the quality of life for dogs with allergies.
Final Thoughts
If your dog is suffering from allergies, consult your veterinarian to discuss the best treatment options. They can help tailor a plan that includes medications like Apoquel, lifestyle changes, and dietary adjustments, ensuring your furry friend stays healthy and happy.
References
Frequently Asked Questions About Apoquel and Alternatives for Dog Allergies
1. What is Apoquel and how does it help dogs with allergies?
Apoquel (oclacitinib) is a prescription medication for dogs that helps control itching and inflammation caused by allergic and atopic dermatitis. It works by inhibiting Janus kinase (JAK) enzymes involved in the immune response that triggers itching, often providing relief within hours.
2. How quickly does Apoquel start to work for dog itching?
Many dogs show significant itch relief within about 4 hours of the first dose, and improvements in inflammation and skin condition may continue over several weeks.
3. What are the common side effects of Apoquel in dogs?
Common side effects can include vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, lethargy, and increased susceptibility to some skin infections or mites. Most side effects tend to be mild, but serious risks should be monitored by a veterinarian.
4. Is Apoquel safe for long-term use?
Apoquel can be used long term to manage chronic allergy symptoms under veterinary supervision. However, long-term safety requires monitoring, as its immune-modulating effects may increase the risk of infections or other issues in some dogs.
5. Are there alternatives to Apoquel for dog allergies?
Yes — veterinarians may recommend other options depending on your dog’s symptoms and health history. These include:
-
Cytopoint: injectable antibody therapy lasting weeks per dose.
-
Cyclosporine (Atopica): immunosuppressive therapy.
-
Antihistamines: sometimes used for mild allergy relief.
-
Steroids: effective but usually for short-term use due to side effects.
-
Natural and supportive therapies: dietary changes, omega-3s, topical treatments, and supplements (often in conjunction with medical treatment).
6. What is Cytopoint and how is it different from Apoquel?
Cytopoint is an injectable allergy treatment that contains monoclonal antibodies designed to block the itch signal in dogs. Unlike Apoquel, which is taken daily, Cytopoint injections can provide relief for 4–8 weeks and may have a different side-effect profile.
7. Can over-the-counter (OTC) products replace Apoquel?
Because Apoquel works through specific immune-modulating mechanisms, simple OTC antihistamines generally do not provide the same level of itch and inflammation control. OTC products may help with very mild symptoms, but they’re usually not sufficient for moderate or severe allergic dermatitis.
8. Are natural remedies effective for dog allergies?
Some pet owners explore natural support like CBD oil, omega-3 fatty acids, and topical soothing shampoos to support skin and immune health. These may help reduce mild irritation or complement veterinary treatments, but they usually aren’t as fast-acting or targeted as prescription medications.
9. Should I talk to my vet before stopping Apoquel?
Yes. Stopping Apoquel or switching allergy treatments should always be done under veterinary guidance, as abrupt changes can lead to flare-ups of itching or allow allergies to worsen. Tailoring a dog’s allergy management plan to their needs ensures the best outcome.
10. Can Apoquel cure my dog’s allergies?
No — Apoquel doesn’t cure allergies; it manages the symptoms by controlling itch and inflammation. Long-term allergy management usually also involves identifying triggers, preventative care, and supportive treatments alongside medications.
