Eight Options for Treating Canine Itchiness (Other than Apoquel), as Written by Veterinarian Rhiannon Koehler, MPH

Affordable Options for Managing Canine Allergies: A Look at Apoquel Alternatives

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2025 May 29 . 2:23 PM

2 min read

Budget-friendly options for managing canine skin allergies, as Apoquel - though effective - can be... — Budget-friendly options for managing canine skin allergies, as Apoquel - though effective - can be costly. Here are some alternative alternatives for your furry friend.

Eight Options for Treating Canine Itchiness (Other than Apoquel), as Written by Veterinarian Rhiannon Koehler, MPH

Apoquel Emerges as a Popular Option for Dogs with Skin Allergies, But Options Exist for Pet Owners Seeking Alternatives

Apoquel, or oclacitinib, is a frequently prescribed medication to manage allergic skin conditions in canines by inhibiting itch and inflammation pathways. However, due to concerns regarding side effects and potential risks, many pet owners are exploring alternatives.

Apoquel has gained popularity for its quick action in providing relief and low risk of side effects. Although effective, there are several reasons why pet parents may seek alternatives to Apoquel, including cost, age restrictions, pre-existing illnesses, reproductive status, and potential long-term side effects.

One alternative is Atopica (Cyclosporine), an FDA-approved medication for atopic dermatitis that provides relief after several weeks, generally considered safe but with gastrointestinal side effects. Atopica takes longer to start working compared to Apoquel but is often used for sustained relief without the rapid onset of Apoquel.

Another option is steroids, frequently used to control severe allergy symptoms. While they offer quick relief, steroids come with potential long-term side effects. Both steroids and Apoquel share a fast onset of action but are generally used for short-term relief due to their side effects.

Another alternative is colostrum supplements, which can help manage itch and allergies naturally and are often used for long-term maintenance. These natural alternatives have fewer side effects compared to Apoquel.

Other alternatives include Zesty Paws Advanced Allergy Immune Supplement, BEXLEY LABS Curaseb Medicated Spray, homeopathic remedies (such as Allergena), dietary changes, and topical treatments (such as hydrocortisone).

When managing allergic itch in dogs, a multi-modal approach might be more effective. Pet owners should work closely with their veterinarians to rule out possible causes, such as flea allergies or food allergies, and to manage co-occurring skin conditions.

References: [1] Cosgrove, Sallie B et al. "A blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of the efficacy and safety of the Janus kinase inhibitor oclacitinib (Apoquel®) in client-owned dogs with atopic dermatitis." Veterinary dermatology vol. 24,6 (2013): 587-97, e141-2. doi:10.1111/vde.12088[2] Elanco Animal Health. Data on File.[3] "Allergies in Dogs." PetMD, PetMD, 17 May 2023, www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/skin/c_dg_allergies_in_dogs.[4] "Colostrum for Dogs: Benefits, Uses & Side Effects." FourLeafRover, 21 Mar. 2023, www.fourleafrover.com/colostrum-for-dogs/.[5] "Allergies." Zesty Paws, Zesty Paws, www.zestypaws.com/natural-pet-care-blog/allergies/.[6] "Eczema and Allergies: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Prevention (for Dogs)." Petco Love, Petco Love, www.petcolove.org/learn/pet-health/eczema-and-allergies-symptoms-causes-treatment-and-prevention-for-dogs/.

Science-based health-and-wellness solutions, like mental-health treatments, are essential complements in managing allergic itch in dogs. Skin-care alternatives, such as colostrum supplements, offer natural relief with fewer side effects compared to Apoquel.