🐕 Apoquel vs. Hydroxyzine vs. Benadryl for Dogs: Everything You Need to Know

Published on: December 7, 2024December 7, 2024Author: Bestie Paws

When your dog is suffering from itching, allergies, or skin irritations, it can be hard to decide which medication will provide the most relief. Apoquel, Hydroxyzine, and Benadryl are three commonly prescribed options, but how do they compare?

Key Takeaways: Quick Answers for Choosing the Right Medication 🐾

Is Apoquel better than Hydroxyzine and Benadryl for long-term itching? Yes, Apoquel is designed for long-term control of chronic itching and skin conditions.
Can Benadryl be used for short-term relief? Yes, Benadryl is often recommended for mild allergic reactions and short-term relief of symptoms.
Which medication has the fewest side effects? Apoquel generally has fewer sedative side effects compared to Hydroxyzine and Benadryl.
Can I give Hydroxyzine or Benadryl for anxiety in dogs? Yes, both can help with mild anxiety due to their sedative properties.
Should I consult my vet before using any of these medications? Absolutely! Always consult your veterinarian to determine the correct dosage and suitability for your dog.

💊 How Do Apoquel, Hydroxyzine, and Benadryl Differ in Treating Allergies and Itching?

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of how these medications work, their common uses, and their potential side effects:

Medication	What It Treats	Common Side Effects	💡 Vet Tip
Apoquel (Oclacitinib)	Chronic itching, atopic dermatitis, and long-term allergic conditions	Minimal drowsiness, vomiting, diarrhea	Works quickly to reduce itching and inflammation without causing sedation. Ideal for long-term use.
Hydroxyzine	Severe allergies, chronic itching, anxiety	Sedation, dry mouth, lethargy	Good for dogs needing stronger itch relief or anxiety control, but can cause drowsiness. Best for short-term use.
Benadryl (Diphenhydramine)	Mild allergies, short-term itching, motion sickness	Drowsiness, dry mouth, urinary retention	Over-the-counter and easy to access for temporary relief but causes sedation. Effective for mild reactions.

🐾 When Should I Use Apoquel for My Dog?

Apoquel is often the go-to medication for long-term management of chronic itching and atopic dermatitis in dogs. If your dog suffers from persistent itching due to environmental or food allergies, Apoquel can provide lasting relief.

Pros of Apoquel:

Fast-Acting: Apoquel starts working within 4 hours to reduce itching and inflammation.
Non-Sedative: Unlike Hydroxyzine and Benadryl, Apoquel doesn’t cause drowsiness, making it ideal for active dogs who need to stay alert.
Long-Term Use: It’s safe for extended use in dogs with chronic allergies or skin conditions, unlike Benadryl, which is more suitable for short-term use.

Cons of Apoquel:

Prescription-Only: Apoquel requires a prescription from your vet, so it’s not as readily accessible as over-the-counter options like Benadryl.
Potential Side Effects: While rare, Apoquel can cause vomiting or diarrhea in some dogs, particularly when first starting the medication.

💡 Pro Tip: Apoquel is especially effective for dogs with atopic dermatitis, which is a chronic inflammatory skin condition caused by allergens in the environment. If your dog has been scratching nonstop, Apoquel might be your best option.

💊 When Should I Use Hydroxyzine for My Dog?

Hydroxyzine is a prescription antihistamine that provides stronger relief for dogs with severe allergies or chronic itching. It’s also commonly used for its anti-anxiety properties, which can help dogs with stress or anxiety-related behaviors.

Pros of Hydroxyzine:

Stronger for Severe Allergies: Hydroxyzine is more potent than Benadryl, making it ideal for dogs with severe itching, chronic skin conditions, or long-term allergies.
Anti-Anxiety Benefits: Hydroxyzine is often prescribed to help dogs with anxiety or stress-related itching because of its calming effects.

Cons of Hydroxyzine:

Sedative Effects: Hydroxyzine causes drowsiness and can make your dog more lethargic, so it’s not ideal for long-term use in active dogs.
Prescription Required: Like Apoquel, Hydroxyzine requires a prescription, so you’ll need to consult your vet for access.

💡 Pro Tip: Hydroxyzine is a good option if your dog’s allergies are accompanied by anxiety or if they need stronger relief than what Benadryl can provide. Just be mindful of the sedative effects.

🐕 When Is Benadryl the Best Choice for My Dog?

Benadryl is one of the most commonly used over-the-counter antihistamines for mild allergies and itching in dogs. It’s effective for short-term relief of symptoms caused by things like insect bites, seasonal allergies, or mild environmental irritants.

Pros of Benadryl:

Accessible and Affordable: Benadryl is available over the counter, making it a convenient option for quick relief.
Good for Acute Allergies: If your dog has a sudden allergic reaction to a bee sting or develops hives, Benadryl can provide fast relief.
Mild Sedative Properties: The sedative effects of Benadryl can be beneficial if your dog also suffers from mild anxiety.

Cons of Benadryl:

Short-Term Relief: Benadryl is most effective for short-term, mild allergic reactions. It’s not ideal for long-term use in dogs with chronic allergies.
Sedative Effects: Like Hydroxyzine, Benadryl can cause drowsiness, which may not be desirable if your dog needs to stay alert.

💡 Pro Tip: Benadryl is best used for temporary relief of itching or allergic reactions. If your dog’s symptoms persist, it may be time to explore longer-term solutions like Apoquel.

🤔 Which Is Best for My Dog’s Condition: Apoquel, Hydroxyzine, or Benadryl?

Choosing the right medication for your dog depends on the severity of their symptoms, the duration of treatment needed, and how your dog reacts to the medication. Here’s a guide to help you decide:

For Long-Term Itching and Chronic Allergies:
- Apoquel is your best choice for chronic conditions like atopic dermatitis or persistent itching caused by environmental or food allergens. It offers long-term relief without the sedative side effects.
For Severe Allergies or Anxiety:
- Hydroxyzine works well if your dog needs stronger allergy relief or also suffers from anxiety. It’s a more potent option, but keep in mind the sedative effects.
For Short-Term, Mild Reactions:
- Benadryl is perfect for mild allergic reactions or short-term itching caused by seasonal allergies, insect bites, or hives. It’s widely available and works quickly but is not recommended for long-term use.

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💡 Pro Tip: Always start with the lowest recommended dose for any medication and monitor your dog closely for any side effects. Consult with your vet to determine which option is best for your dog’s unique needs.

📊 Apoquel vs Hydroxyzine vs Benadryl: At a Glance

Medication	Best For	Side Effects	💡 Quick Tip
Apoquel	Chronic itching, long-term allergy control	Minimal sedation, possible vomiting	Ideal for dogs with atopic dermatitis or chronic allergies.
Hydroxyzine	Severe allergies, anxiety, chronic itching	Sedation, dry mouth	Best for severe allergies or anxiety-related symptoms.
Benadryl	Mild allergies, short-term itching, insect bites	Drowsiness, dry mouth, urinary retention	Good for short-term relief; widely available OTC.

🗝️ Key Takeaways for Managing Your Dog’s Allergies and Itching:

Apoquel is the best option for long-term relief of chronic itching without sedation.
Hydroxyzine is effective for severe allergic reactions or anxiety, but it can cause drowsiness.
Benadryl works well for short-term relief of mild allergic reactions but isn’t suitable for ongoing treatment.
Always consult your vet before starting any medication to ensure it’s appropriate for your dog’s condition.

Comment 1: “Can I use Apoquel and Benadryl together for my dog?”

While it’s possible to give both Apoquel and Benadryl together in some cases, it’s not typically necessary—and should only be done under direct guidance from your veterinarian. Here’s why:

Overlap in Function: Both Apoquel and Benadryl address allergy-related itching, though they work through different mechanisms. Apoquel targets the JAK pathway, reducing the body’s inflammatory response to allergens, while Benadryl is an antihistamine that temporarily blocks the release of histamines during an allergic reaction. In most cases, Apoquel alone is strong enough to manage itching and doesn’t need to be paired with Benadryl.
Combining Side Effects: Benadryl is known to cause drowsiness, and while Apoquel usually doesn’t have this effect, combining the two might make your dog more lethargic than necessary. Additionally, mixing medications can increase the risk of dry mouth or digestive upset, especially if not monitored closely.
When to Combine: Some vets may recommend using both temporarily if your dog is experiencing a flare-up of allergy symptoms and needs immediate relief while Apoquel takes effect. Since Benadryl works faster, it can provide quick relief, with Apoquel offering more sustained control.

💡 Pro Tip: If you feel like Apoquel isn’t working as effectively as it should, talk to your vet about other solutions rather than adding Benadryl on your own. There might be a better alternative like Cytopoint injections or adjusting the Apoquel dosage.

Comment 2: “Is Apoquel safe for long-term use, and what should I watch for?”

Apoquel is generally considered safe for long-term use in dogs, especially for managing chronic itching and atopic dermatitis, but there are important things to keep in mind:

Effective for Chronic Conditions: Apoquel was specifically designed to provide long-term relief from conditions like atopic dermatitis, which are persistent and require ongoing treatment. It’s often used for months or even years to maintain control over itching without the sedative effects of antihistamines like Hydroxyzine or Benadryl.
Monitor for Side Effects: Although Apoquel is usually well-tolerated, long-term use can occasionally lead to side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. While these side effects are rare, it’s important to monitor your dog for any changes in behavior or health.
Immune System Considerations: Apoquel works by suppressing certain parts of the immune response, which may slightly increase the risk of infections or tumor growth in some dogs, especially those predisposed to certain conditions. This is why regular veterinary checkups are essential when using Apoquel long-term. Your vet will likely recommend blood tests periodically to ensure your dog’s overall health remains stable.
Balancing Risk vs. Benefit: For most dogs, the benefits of Apoquel—significant relief from chronic itching and inflammation—far outweigh the risks. However, it’s always important to weigh the pros and cons with your vet, particularly if your dog has underlying health issues.

💡 Pro Tip: If your dog is on Apoquel long-term, make sure to schedule regular vet visits to monitor their overall health. A balanced diet and consistent care will help minimize any potential risks.

Comment 3: “What should I do if Hydroxyzine makes my dog too sleepy?”

If Hydroxyzine is causing your dog to become overly lethargic, there are a few steps you can take to adjust the treatment plan:

Reduce the Dosage: Hydroxyzine is known for its sedative properties, which can be too strong for some dogs, especially at higher doses. Speak to your vet about lowering the dosage to see if a smaller amount provides allergy relief without making your dog excessively sleepy. This adjustment can often make a significant difference in your dog’s alertness while still managing symptoms.
Switch to a Less Sedative Option: If reducing the dose isn’t enough, you might want to consider switching to a non-sedating alternative like Apoquel or Zyrtec. These medications manage itching and allergic reactions without causing drowsiness, making them better options for dogs who need to stay active.
Timing Doses for Night: Another option is to adjust the timing of your dog’s Hydroxyzine doses, administering the medication before bed so that the sedative effects align with their natural rest period. This way, your dog can get relief from itching or anxiety while they sleep, without being overly lethargic during the day.
Combine with Physical Activity: If Hydroxyzine is still necessary, try to increase your dog’s physical activity during the day. Taking your dog for walks or engaging in playtime can help counteract the lethargy while ensuring they stay mentally and physically stimulated.

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💡 Pro Tip: Always talk to your vet before making any changes to your dog’s medication. If Hydroxyzine’s side effects are too much for your dog, your vet will be able to suggest a more suitable alternative.

Comment 4: “Can Benadryl be used daily for chronic itching, or is it only for occasional use?”

Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is best suited for occasional use rather than daily, long-term management of chronic itching. Here’s why:

Short-Term Relief: Benadryl is most effective for short-term allergy symptoms like reactions to insect bites, seasonal allergies, or hives. It works quickly but doesn’t provide the sustained relief needed for dogs with chronic skin conditions like atopic dermatitis.
Tolerance Development: With daily use, dogs can develop a tolerance to Benadryl, meaning that over time, it will become less effective at controlling itching or allergy symptoms. This makes it less suitable for managing ongoing conditions.
Sedative Side Effects: Benadryl’s sedative effects can also interfere with your dog’s quality of life if used daily. While it’s helpful for short-term episodes where calm is needed (e.g., travel, thunderstorms), long-term use can leave your dog feeling lethargic or groggy on a regular basis.
Explore Long-Term Options: For dogs with chronic itching or allergies, medications like Apoquel or Cytopoint offer much better long-term relief. They’re designed for continuous use and won’t cause the sedation or tolerance issues seen with daily Benadryl use.

💡 Pro Tip: If your dog has frequent allergic flare-ups, it’s time to consider a long-term treatment plan. Benadryl is best kept for acute allergic episodes rather than daily allergy management.

Comment 5: “How quickly does Apoquel work compared to Hydroxyzine and Benadryl?”

Apoquel is known for its fast-acting relief, often working faster than Hydroxyzine and Benadryl. Here’s how they compare:

Apoquel: This medication typically begins to reduce itching within 4 hours of administration, and its full effects are seen within 24 hours. Because it targets specific proteins in the immune response, Apoquel provides rapid relief from itching without causing sedation, making it ideal for dogs with chronic itching.
Benadryl: Benadryl works relatively quickly as well, often taking 30 minutes to 1 hour to reduce mild allergic reactions. However, it’s most effective for acute, short-term relief and isn’t designed for long-lasting effects. The downside is that Benadryl can cause drowsiness, limiting its use if your dog needs to stay active.
Hydroxyzine: Hydroxyzine can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to start working, and like Benadryl, it can cause sedation. While it’s effective for more severe allergies, its longer onset and sedative effects make it less ideal for rapid relief if your dog needs to stay alert and active.

💡 Pro Tip: If your dog’s itching is severe and needs immediate relief, Apoquel offers the fastest, sustained action without making your dog lethargic, making it a great choice for long-term management.

Comment 6: “Is there any reason I shouldn’t use Apoquel for my dog?”

While Apoquel is a highly effective medication for managing chronic itching and allergies in dogs, there are certain situations where it may not be the best choice:

Pre-existing Conditions: Apoquel works by suppressing part of the immune system to control allergic reactions. If your dog has a pre-existing condition like cancer, infections, or a weakened immune system, Apoquel may increase the risk of complications. Since it suppresses the immune response, your dog might be more vulnerable to infections, so it’s important to discuss this with your vet if your dog has underlying health issues.
Puppies Under 12 Months: Apoquel is not recommended for dogs younger than 12 months because their immune systems are still developing. The immune-suppressing effects could potentially interfere with normal growth or make puppies more susceptible to illnesses.
Long-Term Use Monitoring: While Apoquel is generally safe for long-term use, it’s important to regularly monitor your dog’s health. Periodic blood tests may be needed to ensure your dog’s immune system and liver are functioning properly over time. Though the side effects are minimal, rare cases of vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite can occur.
Pregnant or Breeding Dogs: Apoquel hasn’t been thoroughly tested for use in pregnant or breeding dogs, so it should be avoided in these cases unless specifically recommended by your vet. The potential impact on unborn puppies or nursing dogs is not fully understood.

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💡 Pro Tip: If you’re concerned about Apoquel’s effects on your dog, ask your vet about alternative treatments like Cytopoint injections, which work by neutralizing specific proteins involved in the itch response without suppressing the immune system as broadly.

Comment 7: “Is Hydroxyzine better than Apoquel for treating allergies?”

When comparing Hydroxyzine and Apoquel for treating dog allergies, it’s important to consider the specific needs of your dog. Both medications can be effective, but they work in different ways and are suited to different situations.

Effectiveness for Itching: Apoquel is generally more effective for chronic itching and long-term allergic conditions like atopic dermatitis. It targets the JAK pathway, which plays a direct role in inflammation and the itching response. For dogs with severe, ongoing allergies, Apoquel is usually the better option because it provides quick, targeted relief and can be used safely over a longer period.
Hydroxyzine for Sedation: Hydroxyzine, on the other hand, is often prescribed for dogs with severe itching but also for those who need some level of sedation to calm anxiety or stress-related scratching. Because Hydroxyzine has strong antihistamine properties and sedative effects, it’s particularly useful in dogs that benefit from relaxation along with their allergy treatment. However, it doesn’t address chronic inflammation as effectively as Apoquel.
Side Effects: Apoquel has fewer sedative side effects than Hydroxyzine, which can make dogs drowsy or lethargic. If your dog needs to stay alert or active, Apoquel is the preferred choice. On the other hand, Hydroxyzine’s calming effects can be helpful if your dog struggles with itching and anxiety together.

💡 Pro Tip: If your dog suffers from severe itching and anxiety, Hydroxyzine might be beneficial for short-term use. For long-term allergic conditions or when sedation isn’t needed, Apoquel is usually more effective in providing sustained relief without drowsiness.

Comment 8: “Can I use Benadryl and Apoquel together for seasonal allergies?”

It’s possible to use Benadryl and Apoquel together for seasonal allergies in dogs, but it’s usually unnecessary unless specifically recommended by your vet. Here’s why:

Both Target Itching: Apoquel is highly effective at controlling itching and inflammation, especially for chronic conditions. In most cases, Apoquel alone is sufficient to manage the symptoms of seasonal allergies, including itching and skin irritation.
Situational Use of Benadryl: Benadryl works well for short-term relief, such as during an acute allergic flare-up or when your dog is exposed to a high level of seasonal allergens like pollen. Some vets may recommend using both if your dog experiences a sudden increase in symptoms and you need fast, additional relief while Apoquel is building up in their system. Benadryl can start working within 30 minutes, while Apoquel can take a few hours to reach full effect.
Sedative Side Effects: Since Benadryl can cause drowsiness, combining it with Apoquel may leave your dog more lethargic than necessary. If Apoquel is controlling your dog’s symptoms well, adding Benadryl might just increase the risk of side effects without providing much additional benefit.

💡 Pro Tip: If you find that Apoquel isn’t providing enough relief during allergy season, talk to your vet before adding Benadryl. They may recommend adjusting the Apoquel dosage or exploring other complementary treatments like allergy shots or Cytopoint.

Comment 9: “Does Apoquel treat anxiety-related itching, or should I use Hydroxyzine?”

Apoquel is not specifically designed to treat anxiety-related itching, as it targets inflammatory pathways rather than the underlying anxiety that might cause itching or licking behaviors. Here’s what to consider:

Apoquel for Allergy-Related Itching: Apoquel is excellent for dogs with chronic allergies or skin conditions that cause itching due to an allergic response. If your dog’s itching is caused by environmental allergens or food sensitivities, Apoquel is likely to be very effective at reducing inflammation and itch.
Hydroxyzine for Anxiety-Induced Itching: If your dog’s itching is related to anxiety or stress, such as compulsive licking or scratching, Hydroxyzine may be a better choice. Hydroxyzine has sedative properties and can help calm anxious behaviors while also addressing itching. For dogs with anxiety-driven skin issues, Hydroxyzine offers a dual benefit by reducing stress and controlling allergies.
Behavioral Treatment for Anxiety: In addition to medication, consider behavioral therapy or environmental changes to reduce your dog’s anxiety. Interactive toys, routine exercise, and calming supplements like L-theanine can also help manage anxiety-related itching.

💡 Pro Tip: If anxiety is the root cause of your dog’s itching, ask your vet about combining Hydroxyzine with behavioral training or anti-anxiety medications like fluoxetine (Prozac) for more comprehensive treatment.

Comment 10: “What is the safest medication for long-term use—Apoquel, Hydroxyzine, or Benadryl?”

When considering long-term use, Apoquel is generally the safest option for managing chronic itching and allergies in dogs:

Apoquel for Long-Term Use: Apoquel is specifically formulated to be used for chronic conditions like atopic dermatitis and can be administered over extended periods with regular veterinary supervision. It effectively reduces itching and inflammation without causing sedation, making it suitable for daily use in active dogs. While rare, it’s important to monitor for side effects like vomiting or diarrhea and ensure regular vet check-ups to track overall health.
Hydroxyzine: Hydroxyzine is also safe for longer use, but its sedative effects can make it less practical for active dogs. It’s best used for short- to medium-term treatment, especially if the dog also needs help with anxiety. Over time, Hydroxyzine can cause lethargy and other side effects, so it’s not the first choice for continuous use.
Benadryl: Benadryl is most effective for short-term use and is not recommended for long-term management due to its sedative properties and the potential for dogs to develop tolerance. For chronic itching, Benadryl’s effectiveness diminishes over time, and its sedative effects can interfere with a dog’s quality of life.

💡 Pro Tip: If your dog requires ongoing allergy management, Apoquel is the preferred option due to its safety profile and targeted action. Always consult your vet for regular evaluations when using any medication long-term to ensure your dog remains healthy and symptom-free.