Atopica for Dogs: Medication to Treat Skin Conditions in Dogs
When Should You Use Atopica For Dogs?
If your dog suffers from atopic dermatitis (dermatitis atopica), he will need a lot of attention and care. Just like people, many household pets have allergic reactions that can be alleviated by medication. Atopica for dogs is a relatively new drug that has been proven to be effective in controlling the symptoms of canine chronic atopic dermatitis. A dog must be diagnosed by a veterinarian as having atopic dermatitis before it is approved for this medication. Atopica should not be used if a dog only has a minor skin irritation that will go away after a bath or other minor medical attention is given to it. This drug is specifically designed to alleviate the intense, recurrent itch of the skin condition known as chronic atopic dermatitis.
Chronic Atopic Dermatitis
Chronic atopic dermatitisis characterized as an itchy skin condition that has existed for a long time and does not go away easily. It is an inflammatory skin disease in which dogs experience a strong desire to itch. To satisfy this desire, they itch bitterly and bite at themselves in the areas where it itches, or rub rigorously against an object to satisfy the itch. Oftentimes this biting, licking, scratching and rubbing results in injuries to the dog. Dogs who suffer from this disease often times have patches of hairless skin that have turned black. This is due to excessive itching resulting from the presence of certain allergic components in the air, such as pollen grains, dust and other microorganisms.
Symptoms
It is fairly easy to recognize the symptoms of chronic atopic dermatitis by carefully noticing the behavior of your pet. If your dog is unusually itchy, whines and digs at himself, this might be a red alert for you. As with any change in your pet’s health and behavior, a visit to the veterinarian is the best course of action to take. If your vet diagnoses chronic atopic dermatitis, he or she might suggest Atopica for dogs.
How Does Atopica For Dogs Work?
Atopica for dogs is prescribed for dogs for the treatment of atopic dermatitis only. It works to suppress the dogs’ desire to itch and bite at themselves caused by allergic reactions to fleas, dust, mites and more. It is an oral drug which is given by mouth and consists of cyclosporine. Atopica operates by growing a microemulsion within an aqueous atmosphere. Cyclosporine, which is Atopica’s main ingredient, is what is known as a cyclic polypeptide. It has 11 different proteins in it that help to regulate your dog’s immunity process.
Precautions for Atopica For Dogs
Atopica is not prescribed for dogs who weigh under 4 lbs. Some side effects of atopica include loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhea. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop the dosage of Atopica immediately. Most dogs who suffer from these side effects recover as soon as the medication is stopped. Since Atopica works by suppressing the dog’s immune system, special attention needs to be given to your dog’s general health.
Atopica for dogs is a safe drug, however, it is best to be alert for any unusual behavior in your dog, or any decline in his health after administering Atopica. If you notice any unusual behavior or lethargy, notify your veterinarian right away.
Atopica for Dogs-Helping Treat Canine Atopic Dermatitis
Atopica for Dogs
Atopica is an oral drug administered to treat an inflammatory skin disease in dogs called atopic dermatitis. Bacterial and fungal infections in dogs, and unhygienic environments are two major causes of dermatitis in dogs. Atopica for dogs is proven to be one of the effective treatments for controlling the atopic dermatitis (dermatitis atopica) in dogs. Dogs are also exposed to various other skin allergies caused by pollen, dust, fleas and mites, etc. Atopic dermatitis causes tremendous itching in dogs, and sadly, it needs lifelong treatment for chronic cases (longstanding and symptoms do not go away).
Canine atopic dermatitis is recurrent and causes dogs to bite and scratch themselves fiercely. In order to qualify for Atopica, a dog must be diagnosed by a veterinarian as having chronic, that is, recurring and constant, canine atopic dermatitis. This is important because of how Atopica works on the dog’s immune system. Atopica for dogs is the first oral non-steroidal pet med that acts on the immune cells and reduces itching and inflammation. Cyclosporine, the drug present Atopica, suppresses the T-lymphocytes to reduce itchiness in dogs. The Atopica pet med is available in different strengths (10mg., 15mg., etc.) and one can give 5mg/kg/day to start as an effective means of treatment. Atopica must be given daily, two hours after the dog eats. Typically, after 4 weeks, pet owners notice a satisfactory improvement in their dogs.
Once the disease is satisfactorily controlled, Atopica can be given on alternate days and can be reduced to every 3 to 4 days at the later stages of treatment. While this drug is considered safe, there are a few side effects that may occur. The administration of this drug may cause vomiting, abnormal stools, stomach upset and diarrhea etc., however, in tests, these side effects stopped as soon as the drug is withdrawn. It is important to remember that Atopica for dogs is not advised for minor skin infection in dogs. It is specifically designed to treat chronic, recurrent dermatitis.
Unfortunately, many traditional treatments such as topical creams, shampoos, antibiotics, antihistamines and steroids, etc. are mostly ineffective in controlling the more advanced symptoms of atopic dermatitis.
Atopica for Dogs Works
Atopica has been proven to control and reduce itching in the majority of dogs. Some pet owners have even gone so far as to say that Atopica is a miracle drug that has helped turn their itchy, scratchy, miserable dogs into the happy and healthy creatures that they were before their affliction. Atopica is not available over the counter and must only be prescribed by a licensed veterinarian. If you feel your pet may qualify for this treatment, please see your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment of atopic dermatitis. Your vet will at that time make the determination about whether or not Atopica is the right choice for treating your dog’s skin condition.
If Atopica for Dogs Isn’t Right for Your Dog
If your vet determines your dog’s skin condition does not qualify him for Atopica, you can check out this highly effective dog skin solutions product that many dog owners have found successful in treating their dogs’ itchy skin conditions.
What is Atopica for Dogs?
Designed as an effective treatment for canines suffering from some form of atopic dermatitis, Atopica for dogs provides relief from the constant distress caused by skin irritations, lesions, and infections. The action of the medication helps to soothe and reduce outbreaks due to infections that lead to itchy flaking skin. Considered a safe alternative to the use of steroids to reduce inflammation, the drug can be used over the long-term to help regulate ongoing skin problems or used on an as-needed basis when seasonal allergies cause an outbreak.
How Atopica Works
The function of the medication is based on the action of the core ingredient, known as cyclosporine. Along with several excipients such as tocopherol iron oxide, and carminic acid, the soft gel capsule is swallowed by the pet with the ingredients gradually entering the bloodstream. Once in the system, the medication begins to attack the immune cells that are triggering the skin irritation, inhibiting the activity. As a result, the severe itching begins to subside and the skin irritation fades over the course of a few days.
Indications that Atopica for Dogs May Be Appropriate
There are several symptoms associated with atopic dermatitis that many manifest. Any combination of these symptoms may be a sign that use of Atopica would be effective:
* Constant licking or gnawing at the skin
* Appearance of sores or red splotching on the skin
* Noticeable hair loss on one or more areas of the skin
* Noticeable odor from the skin
* Development of Skin Lesions
How to Use Atopica
Atopica capsules are soft and relatively easy for dogs to swallow. The capsules should be administered at least one hour prior to mealtime, or two to three hours after the dog has eaten. Doing so will prevent the food from interfering with the absorption of the cyclosporine into the system and allow the dog to enjoy relief sooner rather than later.
Atopica for dogs can only be obtained with a prescription issued by a licensed veterinarian. In addition, using the drug in conjunction with any other topical or oral medication should only occur with the authorization of the vet. This is because additional medications may interfere with the function of the drug and possibly additional discomfort for the pet.
Range of Dosage
For dogs with moderate to severe skin allergies or infections, a single dose of Atopica for dogs may be required for several days in order to alleviate the itching and other symptoms. Less severe dog skin allergies may require a single dose once every two or three days in order to bring the condition under control. The veterinarian can assess the condition of the dog’s skin and determine both the level and frequency of the dosage that is appropriate.
In the event that the prescribed dosage does not seem to have an effect or is causing side effects, contact the vet immediately. There may be a need to adjust the amount and frequency of the dosage in order to minimize side effects while still treating the skin problems.
If a dose is missed, administering the dose and then returning to the normal routine is often recommended. If the time for the next dose is very close, consult with the vet before choosing to give the dog a double dose, as too much of the drug at one time may trigger an adverse side effect.
Can Any Dog Take Atopica for Atopic Dermatitis?
Puppies should not be given Atopica for the treatment of any type of skin condition. The medication is not recommended for any dog under the age of six months. Since there is the possibility of negative interactions with other medications, it is important that the vet be advised of any other over the counter or prescription drugs that the dog is currently taking. Doing so will make it easier to determine if administering Atopica is the best solution or if some other course of treatment would be in the best interests of the pet.
Atopica Side Effects
While there are few reported side effects with Atopica for dogs , it is important for owners and other caregivers to monitor the condition of the dog closely while the medication is in use. In some cases, side effects may appear early on in the treatment process then subside. Rare but possible side effects include:
* Sudden episodes of diarrhea
* Stomach upset that leads to regurgitation
* Loss of appetite for food and even favorite treats
* Reduction in energy
* Wobbly legs indicating muscle weakness
* Difficulty breathing
If any of these side effects continue for more than a day, contact the vet as soon as possible.
When to Expect Results
Owners may notice a difference in the itching and general discomfort of the dog within the first 24 hours after administering Atopica for dogs. This is especially true when the skin irritations are somewhat minor. In other cases, noticeable changes may take anywhere from one to four weeks. The severity of the skin infections will often determine how long it takes for the drug to alleviate the itching and allow lesions to begin healing properly. Along the way, the dog is likely to begin experiencing less severe itching that leads to less gnawing and licking.
Once the skin condition is under control, the vet may recommend continuing the medication for a period of time, usually with a reduced dosage that may range from once per week to twice a month.
For more information on Atopica for dogs, please see our page on canine atopic dermatitis.
Atopica for Dogs Side Effects
If your dog has recently been prescribed Atopica, or if you are considering talking to your veterinarian about using Atopica for your dog’s allergies, you may have concerns about Atopica for dogs side effects.
I have a very itchy pug, and I’ve done a bit of research on ways to help her find relief. In my research, I came across Atopica for dogs and how it works to suppress the dog’s desire to itch.
Every dog has its own allergen threshold. In most cases, the allergy does not progress beyond the normal sneezing, itching, and watery eyes. However, some dogs experience a recurrent and chronic skin condition known as atopic dermatitis. It is when this diagnosis is reached that a veterinarian will prescribe Atopica for dogs.
I was curious about the side effects of this drug, as I thought it might help my pug, particularly since a lot of people reported that it significantly helped relieve their dogs’ itchy skin problems. Here’s what I found:
Leading Atopica for Dogs Side Effects:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
In my research, I found quite a few reports and studies concerning Atopica for dogs side effects, but all agree on two main adverse reactions: vomiting and diarrhea. Castor oil, an inactive ingredient found in Atopica, is thought to be the culprit for the upset stomachs. Some pet owners reported that improvements did occur as they continuously gave their dogs the medication. This suggests that the dogs might acclimate to the medicine. However, as with all side effects, make sure to report them to your vet right away and follow his or her advice on how to proceed next.
Atopica Side Effects Field Study
Some suggestions for managing atopica for dogs side effects of vomiting and diarrhea are having your dog take the dosage with food, having your vet lessen the dosage, or interrupt the dosage at some point. One dog owner stated that her vet prescribed a lower dosage combined with an anti-nausea medication and that worked fine.
There’s no question an abundance of information is available to pet owners claiming that Atopica side effects are transient and minor. However, further research does indicate otherwise.
265 dogs were studied to determine whether adverse reactions were a result of Atopica.In one field study:
- For the first 30 days, 111 dogs were given a placebo. The remainder were treated with Atopica capsules.
- Beyond the initial 30 day period, Atopica capsules were given to all dogs.
- The results were 14 dogs withdrew from the study due to adverse reactions (but these were not noted or described), and vomiting caused 4 more to withdraw.
It has also been reported that ear infections increase when Atopica is prescribed. Since Atopica places the dog’s immune system on hold, a weakened area in the dog’s body may be jeopardized, unable to defend the pet’s ability to fight off infection in other areas.
In regards to long-term side effects of Atopica use, these side effects were reported:Long-Term Atopica Side Effects
- Lethargy
- Cramps
- Muscle or joint pain
- Unusual bleeding
- Behavioral changes
As with all pharmaceuticals, there is also slight potential for damage to the kidneys and liver.
Novartis Pharmaceutical, the company that markets cyclosporine (also prescribed for human use under the name Nioral) under the trade name Atopica, does acknowledge that Atopica use increases a dog’s potential for cancer while using the drug. However, since the drug has only been used for dogs since 2003, it’s very difficult to prove that long-term Atopica side effects originate solely from the drug.
In Conclusion
Overall, despite some of the alarming results from the field study, Atopica for dogs is considered a relatively safe medicine. The best way to approach this is to carefully discuss your pet’s health with your veterinarian, follow your vet’s dosage, keep a keen eye on your dog for any unusual behavior, and report that behavior to your vet right away. A minor adjustment in dosage may be all that is needed, or you may have to discontinue Atopica and find a different treatment option.
It turns out that my pug would not be a good candidate for Atopica since she does not have canine atopic dermatitis. We’re researching other ways to combat her allergies such as doing a food trial to rule out certain food allergies, and using an air purifier to rid her breathing space of dust, pollen and mold. I hope you found this post on Atopica for dogs side effects helpful. Best of luck to your and your pooch!
For more information, please see our page on What is Atopica for Dogs?
Skin Conditions in Dogs – Information
Skin Conditions in Dogs
Just as humans have allergic reactions and various skin conditions or infections, dogs also have theirs. At a certain point or time in the life of of a dog, he or she may experience some sort of skin condition, and each of these has its own way of manifesting.
Some skin conditions in dogs include hormonal skin diseases, flea allergies, ringworm, contact dermatitis, eczema, canine atopy, fungal skin infections, cancer of the skin, staphylococci, canine sarcoptic mange, and many other skin infections. Because of their outdoor nature, many dogs are exposed to allergens in the air from pollen and other airborne irritants. However, indoor dogs can also be susceptible to skin problems. Mold, dust, perfumes and even common dog food can trigger allergic reactions in dogs that manifest as itchiness and hair and skin issues.
Causes of Skin Conditions in Dogs
Some of the causes of skin conditions in dogs include getting a sunburn, having exposure to toxins or chemicals, allergic reactions, flea bites, seborrhea, bacterial or fungal infections, nutritional problems or deficiencies, and so on. Some symptoms that should concern you include your dog itching itself more than usual, when your dog starts to lose its hair and you realize it is falling out more than usual when you comb it, a bad smell on your dog, when your dog behaves awkwardly, when it is mostly quiet and resists food, when you realize small rashes on its skin and so on. Basically, anything that is out of the ordinary for your dog should be investigated. Make sure you visit the vet as soon as you see these symptoms, and never be negligent about the situation if you love your dog because taking those symptoms for granted can cause serious problems, and even death.
Veterinary Care
When you have pets, especially dogs, it is very important to consistently visit a veterinarian. Veterinary care is important in helping prevent, control and treat these skin conditions. Neglecting proper vet care may cause further harm to your dog. In addition to veterinary care, you can try anti-itch products to help relieve many of your dog’s skin conditions. Some pet owners have had remarkable success in managing their dog’s itchy skin problems by following natural or holistic methods. This approach, however, should only be followed after talking with your veterinarian.
Recurrent Skin Conditions in Dogs
One recurrent skin problem dogs may experience is chronic canine atopic dermatits, which is caused by allergens in the air, or foods that dogs are allergic to. Symptoms of this skin condition are excessive scratching and biting to relieve the itch, and typically there is some damage done to the fur and skin because the dog will stop at nothing to get at the itch. There are topical medications, shampoos and holistic and herbal remedies that will help this condition. One highly successful new treatment is a veterinarian-prescribed oral drug (it is taken orally as a pill, two hours after the dog’s meal) called Atopica. Atopica for dogs is prescribed only for causes of chronic canine atopic dermatitis and that condition must be diagnosed by a veterinarian. Many pet owners are expressing great results with Atopica after as little as four weeks of administering it to their dogs. Atopica has a few minor side effects, such as diarrhea and vomiting, but most dogs do just fine with it and it is considered a safe and effective way to treat this condition.
Thanks for checking out our site and feel free to look around a few of the other articles we have here regarding various skin conditions in dogs, and be sure to check out our video page! To your dog’s health (and yours!)
What Are Some Skin Conditions In Dogs?
The Frequency of Skin Conditions in Dogs
Various skin conditions in dogs happen with a surprising frequency, and this causes many pet owners much consternation. Dogs are at the mercy of their owners to take care of these conditions when they arise, so it is vital to your dog’s health and well being that you keep an eye out for unusual behavior, such as excessive scratching and biting at themselves, as well as the appearance of rashes, bumps, discolorations, lesions and more. There are some very nasty skin conditions that plague dogs and they are not anything nice in a number of cases. This is why it is important to know what the different kind of skin problems are and go from there.
What Causes Skin Conditions in Dogs?
The diseases and conditions that afflict canine skin happen because of a myriad different causes. A particular diagnosis can only be arrived at by a veterinarian looking at the appearance of the skin itself and noting the specific symptoms that are present. Particular skin conditions in dogs can be caused by a specific skin problem itself or from the dog scratching or itching due to reactions from a dog skin allergy of some sort. Dog allergies are fairly common and arise from everyday, common sources. Dog food is one of the main culprits, as many dogs are allergic to the corn, soy or wheat products that make up the majority ingredients in most commercial dog food on the market today. Obviously, a trip to the veterinarian is the best action to take. If it is indeed a food allergy, the veterinarian can put your dog on a testing course to eliminate certain food products and best determine which product is causing the allergic reaction. It is also advised not to delay, as doing so may result in greater pain and discomfort for your dog. Failing to take action can also, sadly, lead to death. Your dog depends on you for his health. Make sure to take every measure to keep him safe and healthy.
The causes of canine skin conditions in dogs can be from allergies on skin or from food, fungal skin infections, dog ringworm, skin cysts and warts, flea bite hypersensitivity, skin parasites, mange, ticks and lice. There are myriad causes and it usually takes testing to discover the cause. Testing your dog for certain food allergies is also a possibility as many dogs are allergic to the common ingredients in much of mass-produced dog food — even the so-called “good” brands. Work with your veterinarian on a plan to determine and eliminate possible food allergens. These are just some of the most common causes of skin disorders in dogs.
How Do Skin Conditions in Dogs Appear?
Dogs can be very much like people, and this includes where skin issues are concerned. They can and do get dry skin in some instances, which is not very serious, but all the same does need to be addressed. Sometimes a simple soothing oatmeal bath will help alleviate the itchiness and dry skin of your dog. Sometimes the food must be changed to include more healthy fats and omega-3 ingredients to help the skin and fur.
Skin conditions can vary much of the time and manifest as lesions, red patches, and poor condition of the skin overall. The condition of the skin can be crusty, have scales, scars, or have ulcers. A dog’s behavior can also differ where skin conditions are concerned. Dogs can have visible hot spots, have a rash or red patches, dry, oily or flaky skin, lumps on skin, presence of dog odor or smell, to name a few.
Regular trips to your vet for routine checkups and to discuss with him or her any symptoms your dog may be experiencing is the best way to make sure that your dog lives a healthy, happy and long life.
Thanks for stopping by our site and we hope you find something helpful in these articles! Be sure to check out some of our other articles for further information.
Best,
The team at Skin Conditions in Dogs.net
More Skin Conditions in Dogs
Skin Conditions in Dogs – A Dog’s Health is Reflected in its Skin
Dogs are sensitive to many allergens present around them and can experience different skin infections, which can lead to many skin diseases. A skin-related infection can be very uncomfortable for your dog and proper care must be taken to cure those skin infections. The health of your dog is reflected in its skin, so observe your pet carefully for any uncomfortable symptoms with skin. Skin conditions in dogs can be identified by the following signs: your dog scratching his skin over any rough surface to soothe the irritation caused by the infection, licking the skin surface and chewing to overcome the discomfort caused by the unusual pain, scabs, hot spots, hair loss and bald patches. You may notice that your dog rubs his skin surface against any sharp edge of furniture or wall to try to satisfy the itching sensation caused by irritation. 
He may also rub his face on the carpet or furniture.
Skin Conditions in Dogs – Changes in Skin a Sign
Skin conditions in dogs get worse if the infections are not cured in the initial stages of the skin disease. Some of the visible changes on the surface of skin are: shedding of fur at some points of skin, general loss of fur, dry coarse fur, patches of wounds on the skin surface, dull coat and your dog may show signs of lethargy. Some causes of skin infections in dogs are parasites such as fleas and ticks, bacteria, fungal infections, food and seasonal allergies, certain shampoos and grooming products, perfumes, ringworm, a hormonal imbalance, boredom or stress, or dust mite bites. There could be many changes in the skin health that could cause discomfort and pain to your pet.
Skin Conditions in Dogs – How You Can Help
It is the responsibility of pet owners to take good care of their dogs and maintain their health. By scheduling regular visits to your vet, you can help stave off many skin conditions. Regular health screenings, blood tests and exams will keep your pooch healthy. Your veterinarian will also be able to diagnose what’s going on with your dogs and see to it that proper medical care is given to relieve the symptoms and heal the condition. The vet can perform simple skin scrapings and microscopic analysis of skin and fur to determine the cause of the irritation. Your vet will have you keep an eye out for unusual behavior and changes in skin color or other signs of discomfort or infection. Some of the other signs of problems are rashes, pus formation, bumps beneath the skin surface and formation of patches of wounds in the places of fur loss. All these skin conditions cause lot of uneasiness, pain and discomfort for your dog. Fortunately, there are many treatments and medicines available for all types of infections. Your dog relies on you to make sure he receives any medical treatment he needs in order to stay healthy and happy. He will give you a lifetime of love in return!
For more info, please see our other pages on dog skin conditions.
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