Apoquel (Oclacitinib)

Name: Apoquel
Brand: Zoetis
SKU: 7455
Availability: InStock

Type

Product

Manufacturer

Country

Dosage

Qty-Price (USD)

Type:

Product: Apoquel Chewable Tablets

Manufacturer: Zoetis

Country: Canada

Dosage: 3.6 mg

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Apoquel Tablet

Manufacturer: Zoetis

Country: Canada

Dosage: 3.6 mg

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Apoquel Chewable Tablets

Manufacturer: Zoetis

Country: Canada

Dosage: 5.4 mg

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Apoquel Tablet

Manufacturer: Zoetis

Country: Canada

Dosage: 5.4 mg

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Apoquel Chewable Tablets

Manufacturer: Zoetis

Country: Canada

Dosage: 16 mg

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Apoquel Tablet

Manufacturer: Zoetis

Country: Canada

Dosage: 16 mg

Qty-Price (USD):

Generic Equivalent of Apoquel

Type

Product

Manufacturer

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Qty-Price (USD)

There is no generic product of Apoquel.

Apoquel Information

medically reviewed by Dr. HaVy Ngo, Pharmacist on December 15, 2025.

Apoquel and Oclacitinib at CanadaPharmacyOnline.com

The brand name Apoquel is marketed and distributed in Canada by Zoetis.

Generic oclacitinib is currently unavailable (at this pharmacy).

Dosage:

The brand-name Apoquel is available as oral and chewable tablets in the following strengths:
• 3.6 mg
• 5.4 mg
• 16 mg

Your veterinarian will determine the appropriate dose based on your dog's weight.

Usage:

Apoquel (oclacitinib) is a fast-acting, oral prescription medication used exclusively for dogs at least 12 months old. It is indicated for the control of pruritus (intense, persistent itching) associated with allergic dermatitis and the control of atopic dermatitis (chronic environmental allergies). As a targeted therapy, it provides significant relief from scratching and inflammation, often within 24 hours. The dosage is typically given twice daily for up to 14 consecutive days to control acute flare-ups, and then once daily for long-term maintenance.

Mechanism of Action:
Apoquel's primary mechanism of action is as a selective Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitor, preferentially targeting JAK1. To cause allergic symptoms such as itching and swelling, chemical messengers called cytokines rely on JAK enzymes within cells to transmit signals. Apoquel's primary mechanism of action is as a Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitor, preferentially targeting JAK1 and JAK3. By specifically blocking the activity of these enzymes, Apoquel interrupts the signaling pathways of key itch- and inflammation-causing cytokines, such as Interleukin-31 (IL-31), IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-13.

Take Apoquel as your veterinarian prescribes, following the instructions in the product monograph in Canada. Consult a veterinarian for personalized guidance and safe use.

The information below summarizes some, but not all, potential side effects, risks, and interactions. Before starting Apoquel, it is essential to discuss all possible side effects, risks, and interactions with your veterinarian.

Side Effects:

The information below outlines potential side effects of Apoquel (oclacitinib). It is not an exhaustive list, and individual reactions can vary.

Common Side Effects (most frequently observed during initial treatment) – These are common side effects of Apoquel, but others are possible. Contact your veterinarian promptly if any side effects are persistent, worsening, or concerning, or if your dog experiences any other troubling symptoms.
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy (tiredness or low energy)
• Vomiting
• Loss of Appetite (anorexia)
• Increased Thirst (polydipsia)
• Soft Stool (This can be grouped with diarrhea/gastrointestinal upset.)

Other Potential Side Effects (less common)
• Cystitis (inflammation of the bladder/urinary tract infection)
• Lipoma (benign fatty tumors)
• Skin or Ear Infections (These can be secondary to the original allergic condition but are also sometimes reported as adverse events.)

Important Safety Considerations
Seek immediate veterinary attention if you observe severe or life-threatening symptoms.
• Increased Risk of Infection: As a targeted immunosuppressant, Apoquel can potentially make a dog more susceptible to developing new or worsening pre-existing infections, which may include pneumonia or severe skin infections (e.g., Demodex mite infestations).
• Association with Neoplasia (Tumors/Cancer): The development of various benign and malignant tumors (neoplasia) has been reported in clinical trials and post-market data. Although a direct causal relationship has not been established, this is an important risk due to Apoquel's immune-modulating properties. While the exact causal link is not fully understood, these have included:
o Mast Cell Tumors
o Histiocytic Sarcoma
o Lymphoma

Note: Apoquel should not be used in dogs under 12 months of age or in dogs with serious pre-existing infections or a history of malignant neoplasia, as its safety in these groups has not been adequately established.

Contraindications:

The following are key contraindications and important warnings (not an exhaustive list). Before your dog starts Apoquel (oclacitinib), you must discuss their complete medical history, including all current and past conditions and every medication they are taking, with your veterinarian.

Do NOT give Apoquel (oclacitinib) if your dog meets the following criteria:
• Age Restriction: Your dog is a puppy less than 12 months old. (Safety and effectiveness have not been established in this age group.)
• Allergy/Hypersensitivity: Your dog has a known allergy to oclacitinib or any other ingredient in the tablet.
• Serious Infection: Your dog has a severe, pre-existing systemic infection. (Apoquel modulates the immune system and could potentially worsen the disease.)
• Severe Immunosuppression/Cancer: Your dog has a pre-existing neoplastic condition (cancer) or requires other severe immunosuppressive therapy.

Tell your veterinarian about all of your dog’s medical conditions, past and present, before starting Apoquel. This is crucial as certain conditions affect the drug's safety and risk profile.

Key Medical History to Discuss:
• Breeding Status: If your dog is used for breeding, is pregnant, or is lactating. (Safety in these groups has not been established.)
• Cancer History (Neoplasia): Any past or present history of malignant tumors (cancer). (Apoquel modulates the immune system, and tumor development has been reported in some treated dogs.)
• Infection Risk: Any condition that predisposes your dog to frequent or severe infections (e.g., Cushing's disease, chronic illness).

Drug Interactions:

Consult your veterinarian to review all potential risks and drug interactions before administering Apoquel. For complete and up-to-date information, refer to the official prescribing information by Zoetis at https://www.zoetisus.com/content/_assets/docs/vmips/package-inserts/apoquel-prescribing-information.pdf.

Provide your veterinarian with a complete list of all your medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, vitamins, and any significant dietary changes, as these may interact with Apoquel. Apoquel may interact with other medications, but it's not limited to:

Key Interaction Category: Immune Suppression
The most crucial consideration is the combination of Apoquel with other medications that significantly suppress the immune system. Co-administration may increase the risk of serious side effects, including:
• Increased Susceptibility to Infection: Greater risk of developing severe bacterial, fungal, or viral infections. • Increased Risk of Neoplasia: Potentially increased risk of developing tumors or cancers.
Medications that should be used cautiously or avoided concurrently include:
• Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone, Dexamethasone): These are potent immunosuppressants. The combination is generally not recommended unless strictly necessary, and often, Apoquel is used as a replacement for long-term steroid use.
• Cyclosporine (Atopica): This is another powerful immunosuppressive drug used for severe atopic dermatitis. Using it with Apoquel may compound the immunosuppressive effects.
• Other Immunomodulators (e.g., Azathioprine, Chlorambucil): Any other drug used to suppress or modulate the immune system should be discussed carefully with your veterinarian.

Important Note: Because Apoquel's effects on the immune system, particularly in combination with other immune-suppressing drugs, are not fully understood, your veterinarian must be aware of your dog's complete medical history and all currently administered medications and supplements before starting treatment.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Apoquel (oclacitinib) is a medication used to control itching and inflammation in dogs with allergic skin conditions. It is not recommended for use in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs. The manufacturer's official safety information explicitly states this caution because the drug has not been tested in these categories of dogs, meaning its safety and effects on fetal development or milk transfer have not been conclusively established. Therefore, veterinarians strictly advise against using Apoquel in pregnant or nursing bitches to avoid potential, unknown risks to the puppies.

Frequently Asked Questions about Apoquel at CanadaPharmacyOnline

Why is Apoquel more affordable in Canada than in the United States?

Prescription drug prices, including Apoquel, are generally lower in Canada than in the US due to a combination of factors, primarily government price regulations, differing market dynamics, and other economic considerations. In Canada, provincial and federal governments negotiate drug prices with pharmaceutical companies, which often results in lower prices than in the U.S., where market forces play a more significant role. For more information, see the FAQs on Prescription Drug Importation from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF): https://www.kff.org/health-costs/issue-brief/faqs-on-prescription-drug-importation/

How much is the shipping?

Our shipping fee is a flat rate of $10.00 per order. Our pharmacy focuses on offering you the lowest prices on high-quality products.

How do I order from your pharmacy?

Ordering from us is very simple. You can purchase online or call Customer Service at 1866.920.3784; for more information or to learn about the ordering process, visit our How to Order page.

What is Apoquel used to treat in dogs?

Apoquel for dogs is an oral medication used to treat atopic dermatitis (allergic skin disease). Apoquel for atopic dermatitis works by blocking some of the chemical messengers that trigger itchiness, making the pet more comfortable. Dr Pippa Elliott, BVMS MRCVS, reviews this.

How long can a dog be treated with Apoquel?

Apoquel for dogs is designed to be given twice daily for 2 weeks, followed by a once-daily maintenance dose. Apoquel for pets can be given long-term, but regular monitoring (including blood counts) by a veterinarian is advised to ensure safety. Dr Pippa Elliott, BVMS MRCVS, reviews this.

Can I buy Apoquel over the counter from you?

No, Apoquel requires a valid prescription from your vet. We do not sell this product without a valid prescription.

Is there a generic for Apoquel?

No, there is no generic version equivalent of Apoquel.

What is the difference between Apoquel 3.6 mg and 16 mg?

The difference in dosage represents the amount of active ingredient(s) present in the drug.

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The information on this page is sourced from independent third parties contracted by CanadaPharmacyOnline. While we cannot guarantee its medical accuracy, we strongly recommend consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice regarding medications or medical conditions.

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