Apoquel is a medication that is often prescribed by veterinarians to help manage the symptoms of allergies and other inflammatory conditions in dogs. As with any medication, there are potential side effects that pet owners should be aware of before administering Apoquel to their furry friend. In this article, we will explore the possible side effect of drowsiness and other commonly asked questions about Apoquel.
Drowsiness is not a commonly reported side effect of Apoquel in dogs. However, every dog is different and may react differently to the medication. Some dogs may experience mild lethargy or drowsiness after taking Apoquel, but this is not the norm. If you notice your dog experiencing unusual drowsiness or lethargy after taking Apoquel, it is important to contact your veterinarian right away to determine if there may be an underlying issue.
Can I stop giving my dog Apoquel suddenly?
It is not recommended to stop giving your dog Apoquel suddenly. Abruptly stopping the medication can lead to a flare-up of the symptoms that the medication was being used to manage. Instead, it is important to gradually wean your dog off of Apoquel under the guidance of your veterinarian.
As with any medication, there are potential side effects that may occur in dogs taking Apoquel. Some of the most commonly reported side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and changes in blood work. However, it is important to note that not all dogs will experience these side effects and they are generally considered to be mild.
Does Apoquel cause cancer in dogs?
There is currently no evidence to suggest that Apoquel causes cancer in dogs. However, it is always important to be vigilant and report any concerning symptoms or changes in your dog’s health to your veterinarian.
Can Apoquel cause aggression in dogs?
Aggression is not a commonly reported side effect of Apoquel in dogs. However, it is important to monitor your dog’s behavior while they are taking the medication and report any unusual changes to your veterinarian.
Are there any alternatives to Apoquel?
There are several alternatives to Apoquel that may be recommended by your veterinarian depending on your dog’s specific condition. Some of these alternatives include steroids, antihistamines, and immunotherapy. It is important to discuss all treatment options with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action for your furry friend.
Is Apoquel safe for dogs?
Apoquel is generally considered to be safe for most dogs when prescribed and administered by a veterinarian. However, as with any medication, there is a risk of potential side effects. It is important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully and report any concerning symptoms or changes in your dog’s health right away.
FAQs about Apoquel for dogs
We’ll answer some frequently asked questions about Apoquel and its effects on dogs.
What is Apoquel, and how does it work?
Apoquel is a medication that is designed to target and alleviate the symptoms of allergies in dogs. It works by blocking the activity of certain enzymes in the body that are responsible for causing inflammation and itchiness.
Can Apoquel cause drowsiness in dogs?
While drowsiness is not a common side effect of Apoquel, it can occur in some dogs. However, the incidence of drowsiness is generally low, and most dogs tolerate the medication well.
What are some other potential side effects of Apoquel?
Other potential side effects of Apoquel may include vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. In rare cases, dogs may also experience more serious side effects such as infections or cancer.
How can I tell if my dog is experiencing side effects from Apoquel?
If your dog is experiencing any side effects from Apoquel, you may notice changes in their behavior, appetite, or energy level. They may also exhibit signs of gastrointestinal distress such as vomiting or diarrhea. If you suspect that your dog is experiencing side effects, it’s important to contact your veterinarian right away.
Is Apoquel safe for all dogs?
Apoquel is generally safe for most dogs, but it may not be appropriate for dogs with certain underlying health conditions or those taking other medications. Your veterinarian can help determine if Apoquel is right for your dog.
How can I reduce the risk of side effects from Apoquel?
To help reduce the risk of side effects from Apoquel, it’s important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions for dosing and administration. You should also monitor your dog for any changes in behavior or appetite and report any concerns to your veterinarian.
What should I do if my dog experiences drowsiness or other side effects from Apoquel?
If your dog experiences drowsiness or any other side effects from Apoquel, it’s important to contact your veterinarian right away. Your veterinarian may recommend adjusting the dosage or switching to a different medication to alleviate the side effects.
How long does it take for Apoquel to start working?
Apoquel typically starts working within 4-24 hours of administration. However, the time it takes for the medication to take effect may vary depending on the severity of your dog’s symptoms.
Can Apoquel be given with other medications?
Apoquel can be given with most other medications, but it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before administering any new medications to your dog. Your veterinarian can help determine if Apoquel is safe to use with your dog’s other medications.
Is Apoquel addictive?
No, Apoquel is not addictive. It works by blocking specific enzymes in the body, rather than affecting the brain or nervous system.
Can Apoquel be used long-term?
Apoquel can be used long-term to manage chronic allergies or itchiness in dogs. However, it’s important to monitor your dog for any potential side effects and to have regular check-ups with your veterinarian.
What should I do if my dog misses a dose of Apoquel?
If your dog misses a dose of Apoquel, it’s important to administer the missed dose as soon as possible. However, if it’s almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular dosing schedule. Do not give your dog a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
The safety of Apoquel in pregnant or nursing dogs has not been established, so it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before administering Apoquel to a pregnant or nursing dog.
Can Apoquel be used in dogs with liver or kidney disease?
Apoquel may not be appropriate for dogs with liver or kidney disease. Your veterinarian can help determine if Apoquel is safe to use in dogs with these conditions.
How long does Apoquel stay in a dog’s system?
Apoquel is rapidly absorbed into a dog’s bloodstream and typically stays in the system for about 24 hours. However, the exact duration may vary depending on the individual dog and other factors such as their age, weight, and health status.
How can I help my dog if they experience drowsiness from Apoquel?
If your dog experiences drowsiness as a side effect of Apoquel, you can help by providing a comfortable and quiet place for them to rest. It’s also important to monitor your dog for any other potential side effects and to report any concerns to your veterinarian.
Can Apoquel be used to treat other conditions besides allergies?
Apoquel is specifically designed to manage allergies and itchiness in dogs, but it may also be used to treat other conditions such as atopic dermatitis and chronic itchiness.
Can Apoquel be given to puppies?
Apoquel is approved for use in dogs over 12 months of age. However, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before administering Apoquel to a puppy.
How should Apoquel be stored?
Apoquel should be stored at room temperature in a dry place. It should be kept out of reach of children and pets.
Hannah Elizabeth is an English animal behavior author, having written for several online publications. With a degree in Animal Behaviour and over a decade of practical animal husbandry experience, Hannah's articles cover everything from pet care to wildlife conservation. When she isn't creating content for blog posts, Hannah enjoys long walks with her Rottweiler cross Senna, reading fantasy novels and breeding aquarium shrimp.
