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Are Apoquel and Cytopoint safe?

Pet allergies can lead to many different symptoms including uncomfortable skin conditions for them, like atopic dermatitis. This common issue causes itching, inflammation, and irritation, making pets lick, chew, and scratch to find relief. To suppress these symptoms, veterinarians often turn to medications like Apoquel and Cytopoint. Let’s explore the benefits and drawbacks of these popular treatments.




Apoquel: Quick Relief with Considerations

  • How It Works: Apoquel is known for its fast action. Most pets start feeling better within 4 hours of taking it, with relief lasting up to 8 weeks.

  • Benefits: It’s effective at reducing itching and inflammation, providing quick relief for pets suffering from allergies.

  • Side Effects: Apoquel can affect white blood cell counts and elevate liver enzymes, so regular blood monitoring is necessary for pets on long-term treatment. It may also increase the risk of serious infections and worsen existing parasitic skin issues or cancers. Gastrointestinal upset: Vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.

Cytopoint: Long-Lasting and Targeted

  • How It Works: Cytopoint is an injectable medication that targets and neutralizes IL-31, a specific cytokine responsible for allergy-related itchiness. It’s generally more effective than Apoquel and can provide relief for 4 to 8 weeks with just one injection.

  • Benefits: It’s highly effective and provides longer-lasting relief compared to daily oral medications.

  • Side Effects: Like Apoquel, Cytopoint also requires blood monitoring due to its immune-modulating effects. Common adverse reactions to Cytopoint include epilepsy, GI problems, increased pain, lethargy, autoimmune disease and even death. These reactions may happen after one injection or several, so if dogs don't react to the first shot, they're not necessarily safe from the second or third.

Cost Considerations

Both medications are pricey. Treating a dog with allergies can cost between $70 and $150 per month, depending on the size of the dog, not including the additional expense of blood tests for monitoring.

Alternative Approaches

While Apoquel and Cytopoint offer significant relief from allergy symptoms, they don’t address the root cause of the allergies. For a more targeted and cost-effective approach, consider:

  • Allergy Testing: Identifying specific allergens can help tailor treatment.

  • Elimination Diet: Helps pinpoint food sensitivities and avoid problematic ingredients.

  • Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy: This treatment targets the underlying cause of allergies rather than just the symptoms. It’s often more effective in the long run and can be less expensive than ongoing medication.

In Summary

Apoquel and Cytopoint are promising options for managing allergic reactions in pets, offering fast and effective relief. However, they come with considerations regarding cost and potential side effects. For a comprehensive approach, allergy testing and immunotherapy can provide more lasting results by addressing the root causes of allergies.

Do not only suppress the symptoms, treat the cause!



 
 
 

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