Apoquel Chewable Tablets

What Apoquel Chewable Tablets are used for

Apoquel Chewable Tablets (oclacitinib) are licensed for two things in dogs: treatment of pruritus (itching) associated with allergic dermatitis, and treatment of the clinical manifestations of atopic dermatitis. Oclacitinib is a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor that reduces the cytokine activity involved in itch and inflammation.

Underlying or complicating causes — such as flea-allergy dermatitis, food hypersensitivity or skin infections — should be investigated and treated separately by your vet rather than relied on Apoquel alone to resolve.

Available strengths

3.6mg, 5.4mg and 16mg chicken-flavoured chewable tablets, scored so they can be divided for accurate dosing. Available in packs of 20 and 100 tablets. Your vet’s prescription sets the exact strength, pack and quantity for your dog.

How it’s given

Typical dosing is 0.4–0.6mg oclacitinib per kg bodyweight, given twice daily for up to 14 days, then once daily for maintenance, with or without food. Always follow your vet’s prescribed dose — do not adjust it yourself.

Safety information

• Not for use in dogs younger than 12 months or under 3kg bodyweight
• Do not use in dogs with evidence of immune suppression (e.g. hyperadrenocorticism) or progressive malignant neoplasia
• Use in pregnant, lactating or breeding dogs is not recommended
• Apoquel modulates the immune system and may increase susceptibility to infection or affect neoplastic conditions — periodic veterinary monitoring is recommended on long-term treatment
• Very common effects can include pyoderma, skin lumps and papilloma; common effects include lethargy, reduced or increased appetite, vomiting and diarrhoea; very rare effects include anaemia, lymphoma and convulsion — contact your vet if you notice anything unusual

Handling advice for owners

Store out of reach of children and other animals. Wash your hands after handling the tablets. If a tablet is accidentally swallowed by a person, seek medical advice and take the packaging with you.

Full prescribing information is in the product datasheet. Manufactured by Zoetis UK.

Useful links

• Dog Medication
• Pet Prescription Help Centre