Apoquel Chewable Tablets for Dogs

Apoquel Chewable is an FDA-approved chewable treatment in the U.S. prescribed to control itching associated with allergic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis in dogs. This veterinary-recommended, chewable dog allergy medication targets specific cytokines that cause inflammation and itching in our canine companions. 

The pork-liver-flavored chewable tablets are easy to administer and provide an alternative option for dogs who struggle with taking traditional pills. This allergy medication for dogs begins working within 4 hours and often effectively controls itching within 24 hours (1). Apoquel chewable tablets can be used as part of a short-term treatment plan for itching or as part of a long-term management plan to combat dog allergies. 

NOTE: This description is for Apoquel in chewable form, not the traditional tablet version of this dog allergy medicine.

Key Benefits of Apoquel Chewable Tablets

• Flavored, chewable tablet makes dosing easy
• Controls itching caused by contact allergies, flea allergies, and food allergies
• Relief begins within 4 hours
• Controls itching within 24 hours
• A nonsteroidal treatment option

Available Apoquel Chewable Doses for Dogs

• 3.6 mg chewable tablet
• 5.4 mg chewable tablet
• 16 mg chewable tablet

Apoquel chewable tablets for dogs are available for purchase individually, in a 100-count (10×10) blister pack, and in 100- or 250-count bottles. 

Apoquel Chewable Dosage Chart and Information²

The recommended dose of Apoquel chewable tablets for dogs is 0.18 to 0.27 mg per pound of body weight. It is important to work directly with your veterinarian to determine the right dose for your dog. 

Dogs are typically given Apoquel chewable tablets twice daily for the first 14 days of treatment. After the first two weeks, dogs are given one dose of Apoquel per day for maintenance. Apoquel chewable tablets can be given with or without food. 

Side Effects of Apoquel Chewables for Dogs

Apoquel side effects in dogs are rare. Less than 1 dog in 10,000 treated will experience adverse reactions. The most common adverse events included:

• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Decreased appetite
• Blood work changes

If you notice any side effects in your dog following the administration of Apoquel chewable tablets, call your veterinarian. 

Dogs under 12 months of age should not take Apoquel chewable tablets for allergies. This medication also should not be given to dogs with serious infections or to breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs. 

Storage Information

Apoquel chewable tablets should be stored at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit.

How Do Apoquel Chewable Tablets Work? 

Oclacitinib is the active ingredient in Apoquel chewable tablets. It is a synthetic, FDA-approved Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitor that targets specific cytokines — chemicals produced by the body in response to an allergen. These cytokines create an immune reaction that causes itching and skin irritation when our dogs come in contact with an allergen.  

Apoquel chewable tablets stop the feeling of itchiness at a cellular level, which helps dogs stop itching, biting, and licking. 

How to Give Apoquel Chewables To Your Dog

Step 1: Talk to your veterinarian about the proper dose of Apoquel chewable tablets for your dog. 

Step 2: If your dog needs a half dose of a chewable tablet, break the tablet in half where it is scored in the center.

Step 3: Simply offer your dog the pork-liver flavored tablet. Most dogs will take it without protest. 

Step 4: Make sure your dog consumes the full prescribed dose. If your dog has a hard time with the size of the chewable tablet, you can break the dose into smaller pieces and administer it. 

Step 5: Repeat as directed by your veterinarian. 

Apoquel Chewable Tablets Schedule for Dogs

Apoquel chewable tablets may be given (at the correct dose) twice a day to a dog for the first 14 days, and then once per day afterwards for maintenance. If you’re having trouble remembering to give your dog their medication, sign up for an account with GreatPetCare to set medication reminders. 

Apoquel for Dogs Comparison Chart

Compare Apoquel chewable tablets with other popular dog allergy medications.

	Apoquel Tablet	Cytopoint	Prednisone	Zyrtec
Medication Type	JAK inhibitor	Monoclonal Antibody	Corticosteroid	Antihistamine
Medication Form	Chewable tablet	Injection	Tablet	Tablet or Liquid
Requires Prescription	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
Dosing Frequency	Twice daily for the first 14 days. Once per day afterward.	Once every 4-8 weeks	Usually once per day. Not recommended for long-term allergy treatment.	Usually once or twice per day.
When Does it Start Working?	4 hours. Full itch control in 24 hours.	Within 1 day	Within 1-2 hours	Within 1-2 hours
Most Common Side Effects	Vomiting, lethargy, decreased appetite	Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, pain at injection site	Increased drinking, increased urination, increased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea	Vomiting and nausea, hyperexcitability, decreased appetite, diarrhea

For detailed Apoquel comparisons read more: 

• Apoquel vs. Zyrtec for Dogs: Comparison and Key Differences
• Cytopoint vs. Apoquel: How They Work Against Dog Allergies

FAQs About Apoquel Chewable Tablets for Dogs

Are Apoquel chewables safe for dogs?

Yes, Apoquel chewable tablets are safe for dogs who are 12 months and older. It is the first FDA-approved chewable medication prescribed to control itching associated with allergic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis in dogs. 

Data compiled by Zoetis, the manufacturer of the medication, show that adverse reactions in dogs are rare. This dog allergy medication is often prescribed over other types of medications, like corticosteroids and antihistamines, for itching because it typically has fewer side effects. 

Apoquel is not recommended for dogs with serious infections or dogs who are pregnant or lactating. 

How long does it take for Apoquel to work? 

Apoquel chewable tablets typically begin to alleviate itchiness in dogs within 4 hours, and control itching within 24 hours. 

Is Apoquel an antihistamine or steroid?

No, Apoquel is not an antihistamine or steroid. It is a synthetic Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitor. It works by inhibiting cytokines, which are chemical messengers in the body (produced in response to contact with an allergen) that cause inflammation and itchiness. 

Does Apoquel make dogs sleepy? 

Lethargy is listed as one of the potential side effects of Apoquel for dogs, so it is possible that some dogs who are taking this allergy medication may have less energy or be more sleepy than usual. However, most dogs tolerate this medication well and have limited side effects. 

Can I buy Apoquel chewable tablets without a vet prescription?

Apoquel chewable tablets are not available without a prescription from your veterinarian. If you need a new prescription for Apoquel, book an appointment with your veterinarian. 

Does Apoquel help with food allergies?

Yes, Apoquel can help relieve itching and inflammation associated with food allergies in dogs. 

Can humans take Apoquel?

Apoquel chewable tablets are not intended for human use. The active ingredient, oclacitinib, has not been studied in humans and is not approved by the FDA for use to treat allergic reactions or itching in people. 

Can cats take Apoquel?

Apoquel is only labeled for use in dogs and is not cleared by the FDA for use in cats. However, some veterinarians may prescribe Apoquel off-label for cats with atopic dermatitis. You should never give your cat Apoquel unless directed by your veterinarian to do so. 

Do Apoquel chewable tablets expire?

The average shelf life for Apoquel chewable tablets is 24 months. Do not give Apoquel chewable tablets past the expiration date listed on the packaging. 

Can I give my dog Apoquel and Zyrtec together?

There are no known interactions between Apoquel and concurrent use of antihistamines. However, it is important to talk to your veterinarian before using Apoquel with any other over-the-counter or prescription medication.

See full prescribing information.

References

1. Zoetis Pet Care. https://www.zoetispetcare.com/products/apoquel
2. Zoetis. Apoquel Chewable prescribing information. https://www.zoetisus.com/content/_assets/docs/vmips/package-inserts/apoquel-chewable-prescribing-information.pdf