Those weighing 10-50 pounds should get 10mg, and heavy dogs (over 50 pounds) can take up to 20mg. Their supplements are high in Omega-3 fatty acids that can help puppies get over their allergic reactions. Please take a look at this resource that reviews the treatments for allergiesin pets and how they can be done at the same time to improve the control of the condition. How long does Claritin take to work in dogs? Alternatives to Benadryl for dogs. Vets recommend that you give your dog . The "D" stands for pseudoephedrine, which is used to deal with congestion in humans. Apoquel, on the other hand, requires daily oral dosing. Oh, and how about the itching skin that consumes your entire body? Its only logical to wonder whether or not you can give Zyrtec to your furry friend as well. To avoid having to put your dog through this nagging and painful bout of allergies, you should find out the cause. I always recommend that you choose an antihistamine and use it consistently for 2 weeks to determine whether it works or not before discontinuing it. Innovet Pet Products is unable to provide you with specific medical advice or counseling. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, the safe dosage is 2-4 milligrams of medication per kilogram of weight, or 0.9 to 1.8 milligrams per pound. It may burn the skin causing blisters - in the case of acids - or it may cause them to break out in a rash - in the case of poison ivy which leads to itching, or pruritus. The patent on the drug does not expire until 2026, so we won't be seeing any generic Apoquel alternatives in the immediate future. Apoquel does not interfere with allergy testing. For more information - go to: allergy testing in dogs. I checked and for a 2 month supply of zyrtec at walmart it's about 60 caps for 28 bucks vs a 2 month supply of apoquel for $120 through walmart pet RX. There are medications that are safe for pets and others that are not. Zyrtec is a popular second-generation antihistamine first prescribed to people. Antihistamines are over-the-counter so they have a . June 2022. Neither of those 2 drugs can cure allergies, but at least they offer some relief to most dogs. In general, Cytopoint has fewer potential for side effects than Apoquel, and that is often a reason to select it as a first choice therapy. Although Claritin is an antihistamine, it should only be given to dogs under the supervision of a veterinarian. Can dogs take Claritin and Apoquel together? While they may be safe to give to dogs, they should only be administered under the supervision of a veterinarian. It is used to control dog's itching with some effect on immune function. Claritin is yet another kind of oral antihistamine that is sold over the counter and is safe for dogs. How long has this been a concern? Dogs should avoid using Claritin-D for this reason, while the original dog formula is perfectly safe for canine use. Start by grinding plain oatmeal into a powder to sprinkle in your dogs warm bath. For more information, our blog contains a wealth of knowledge all with easily explained science. This is great as it can keep conventional medication dosages low and used sparingly. As with any medicine, you'll need to consult with your veterinarian to determine if Apoquel is right for your pup. Before we move past Zoetis Apoquel and look into all-natural alternatives that can provide fantastic relief from atopic dermatitis with low side effects, let's talk about common allergy medications. Apoquel can be used to control itching skin pain from atopic dermatitis. Bottom line is, always read the medication label and always consult your vet! Also, Claritin and other human antihistamines aren't FDA-approved as an allergy treatment for dogs. These parasites are notorious for biting and causing our pups to break out with an allergic reaction. Its great for dogs who are usually fighting allergy symptoms! Never give your dog Zyrtec-D. Steroids are another option, but long term use can have serious side effects. Common antihistamines like Benadryl and Apoquel are safe to be used together. Dogs treated with Apoquel works within four hours, controls allergy itching within 24 hours, and is safe for short-term and long-term usage. You can also ask about the possible side effects of Claritin and Apoquel. The 14-day marker is an important time to pay attention to as the FDA does not approve more than two applications of a drug per day after 14 days, so when the time comes, use Apoquel only once a day. Generic Benadryl packets are also sold as a cheaper alternative to this brand-name drug. Zoetis Apoquel isnt the only allergy medication out there of course. Manage Settings Throughout allergy testing trials, the drug Apoquel has been proven to make a real difference in atopic dermatitis pain caused by a constant itch. Anxiety is often seen as a culprit in the development of hot spots forming around an itch. With short-term twice-daily use, avoiding the side effects that come with conventional drugs like Apoquel isn't difficult. They wont stop itching, but theres no emergency vet open near you. We also have trazodone from her past vet (we switched 6 months ago) for her bad car/boarding anxiety. Preferred is a dedicated company that specializes in dog health supplements. Those weighing 10-50 pounds should get 10mg, and heavy dogs (over 50 pounds) can take up to 20mg. If youre still curious about allergy meds for dogs, here are 3 facts you might not already know. Apoquel can be combined with antibiotics, anti-fungals, antihistamines, topical steroids, allergy shots and sublingual immunotherapy. Baths will help with fleas as well. An Apoquel container can either contain 20 or 100 tablets. That means your dog may be able to go as long as 8 weeks between injections. Also, it may not be necessary to add in an antihistamine if the Apoquel is doing its job. What drugs should not be taken with Apoquel? Both medications are used to treat respiratory disorders, but there are some differences between the two. For others, we start at once per day. This medication has many side effects and should only be given to dogs under the supervision of a veterinarian. Apoquel, on the other hand, requires daily oral dosing. There is a new medication on the market called Apoquel . Some of the side effects of Apoquel in dogs are not immediately obvious. The dosage for dogs 15-19.9 lbs is one 3.6 mg tablet twice daily. How long does Apoquel stay in a dogs system? Because of this, we want to make sure long-term use is as low-risk as possible. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not placed any time restrictions on the use of Apoquel. Not a drug like Apoquel or other conventional medications that control allergic reactions in dogs. Thats right a good walk can do a lot to improve your pups gut health. In fact, it is the first medication to be specifically designed to combat allergic itching and inflammation in dogs. But, as is the case with all other made-for-human drugs, you should talk to your vet before administering it. Alternatives to Benadryl for dogs. It may also worsen parasitic infections. . Every vet I've talked to has said regular Claritin is safe when dosed at no more than 20mg per day. Zyrtec (cetirizine) or Claritin (loratadine) can be given once to twice daily. Always consult with a vet before giving your dog any new medication. Your vet should know about all your dogs medications and supplements and discuss your pets medical history with you. Zyrtec, Claritin, and Benadryl are just some of the meds that both humans and dogs can take safely. Dog antihistamines are used to treat these allergic reactions, which can range from mild to severe. Mosquito Repellent for Dogs: The Complete Guide for Pet Owners. CBD oil has all the same great benefits that come along with the treats and can improve your pets health in a multitude of ways. Apoquel is a vet-trusted solution to atopic dermatitis. Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is the most popular antihistamine for humans and can be effective for dogs as well. Dogs under 10 pounds should get no more than 5mg, or of a tablet. To help determine if a pet is receiving an appropriate dose of a medication, veterinarians may monitor the amount present in the bloodstream, a procedure that is called therapeutic drug monitoring. Apoquel works by blocking the allergic itch at its source. Benadryl is one of the most commonly used antihistamine drugs in humans. Zyrtec has not been approved for use in dogs by the FDA. If your pet is itching and scratching nonstop, it's probably due to allergies. See our advertising disclosure. If youve dealt with allergies yourself, you might have a bottle of Zyrtec lying around in your medicine cabinet at home. or at stores (such as pharmacies or pet clinics). It does this by acting on natural substances in the body like serotonin and acetylcholine. In fact, most doggie hypoallergenic shampoos include oatmeal as an active ingredient to soothe and fight irritation. But, as is the case with all other made-for-human drugs, you should talk to your vet before administering it. Allegra usually comes in 60-milligram tablets, and it is thought to have a large margin of safety, so vets often recommend the following dosing regimen: Toy Dogs - tablet. For some dogs, we prescribe it twice daily (morning and night) for a short period of time, then reduce to once per day. What can I give my dog orally for itchy skin? Please share your experiences and stories, your opinions and feedback about this blog, or what you've learned that you'd like to share with others. Its important to understand how this medication affects your dogs health before giving it either of these drugs. Short answer - yes, allergy drugs meant for humans are considered to be safe for pets, both dogs and cats. Grapefruit, St. John's wort, and kale can all cause drug interactions by inhibiting the same enzymes CBD products can. However, you should never give your dog Claritin without first consulting your vet. Antihistamines may work well in one dog, while not having much of an effect on another, so it is important that you work with your veterinarian to find the best course of treatment for your dog.. It is not a steroid or antihistamine so it is safe to administer in conjunction with an antihistamine that is used appropriately. Angel Alvarado, LVT Licensed Veterinary Technician. If you buy something from a link on our site, we may earn a commission. Allergic reactions can be caused by a variety of factors, such as an over-sensitivity to fleas, atopic dermatitis, and other things. Page Contents [ hide] At the end of the day, it is your decision how you want to treat your dogs atopic dermatitis. While it is safe to give these two medications together Id check in with your vet before proceeding to make sure it is safe for Izzie specifically. Scientists arent yet sure exactly why some dogs are genetically more prone to developing allergic reactions than others. ANTI-histamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), certirizine (Zyrtec), and hydroxyzine, are commonly taken by humans to treat allergy symptoms and can be used for dogs as well. Just one CYTOPOINT injection starts controlling environmental allergic itch within one day and provides relief that lasts for 4 to 8 weeks. As youve probably guessed by the name, Irritant Contact Dermatitis happens when a strong chemical touches the skin and causes a reaction like itching. As well, they could have an underlying medical issue that could be either physical or mental. This is due to the way Apoquel suppresses your dogs immune system, which we dont want to keep in lowered condition for too long. Try to stay away from lots of grains and make sure the food is rich in meat protein. The constant sneezing and slimy runny nose. CBD oil and CBD treats are rich in healthy fats like omega 3s and 6s. And just like us, our loveable pet dog can get allergies, and for the same reasons. You should not give the following drugs at the same time as Apoquel without consulting your veterinarian: cortisone-type medications or Atopica. Claritin is a "second-generation" antihistamine, so it doesn't usually cause drowsiness, like "first-generation" antihistamines do. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Best Online Pet CareSupport Platform 2020, Copyright 2021 2709358 Ontario Inc. Operating as healthcareforpets.com. This goes for all allergy medications, which means they will likely have to be on some form of medication for their entire life. Can I give my dog Apoquel and Benadryl together? , but steroids and allergy shots are also given in more serious cases. One of the first things youll want to check when you see your dog having an allergic reaction is their food. JA: Hi there. Antihistamines like Benadryl and Zyrtec. Another popular option for itching puppies is Apoquel. The effectiveness of immunotherapy is roughly 70% and for some animals it is the only way to control their allergies. In the middle of a busy veterinary practice, many veterinarians may overlook an opportunity to discuss the possibilities of drug interactions and pet medication side effects. However, it is not always the best choice when you have the option to use Apoquel. because their immune system is too weak to fight them. The internist believes that continuing the Apoquel any further (would) wreak havoc in his immune system, that we can only expect more papilloma lesions, further inflammation of his lymph nodes, lower platelet cell cell count and so on.". Every dog that suffers from allergies may respond . My dog became extremely lethargic and started vomiting and refused to eat when he was on it. A tablet of Apoquel will take effect to stop an itch within 4 hours and Apoquel can provide overall relief from this allergic skin disease anywhere from 12 to 24 hours. Make sure that the Benadryl you're giving your dog only contains diphenhydramine. Katelyn Son is a holistic pet wellness expert and the Content Manager for Veterinarians.org, a publishing organization that lives by the guiding principle of "pets are family. Yucca has an effect similar to steroid drugs without the harmful side effects. Never discontinue the use of Apoquel as prescribed by a vet without getting their approval. Wash the area thoroughly, then contact your vet for advice on how to proceed. Benadryl (generic name Diphenhydramine) is a staple in most home medicine cabinets and first-aid kits. Well, there are lots of ways, and this is great because most methods by themselves dont deliver a full spectrum of microbes. Additionally, Cytopoint was specifically created to target itch associated with atopic (environmental) allergies. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Zyrtec does have a large safety margin . An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Yucca and quercetin are also great natural alternatives to Apoquel. While a Benadryl tablet does relieve allergy symptoms, it is more of a blanket solution in case of emergency. However, as with any medication, there can be potential side effects. All dogs itch sometimes, but when you notice it happening more and more, it could be a sign of a medical condition. Instead of using antihistamines, you could use steroids or even allergy shots, but these two are usually not the first-option treatment. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The recommended Claritin dose for dogs is between 0.1 and 0.55 mg per pound of body weight once or twice per day. Dr. Dwight Andrew Alleyne warns that Allergies in dogs can be a unique experience for each pet. lying around in your medicine cabinet at home. If it has not worked after 2 weeks, it is very unlikely to work better with continued use in my opinion. Therefore, many dogs require increases in their phenobarbital dose over time to maintain the same level of seizure control. While the effectiveness of Claritin and Apoquel are similar in most cases, they have some downsides. An Apoquel tablet is convenient, and with effects lasting up to 12-24 hours, they can experience a full day free of atopic dermatitis and pruritus with just twice-daily administration. According to Veterinary Doctor Nichole Hirsch, who specializes in dermatological conditions, it is safe to administer Apoquel and Zyrtec together. If you have Benadryl in your medicine cabinet, it will control symptoms like pruritus until you can get to the vet. For smaller dogs or dogs less than 12 months of age, there are CBD soft chews that provide a more appropriate dose. Eventually, all this stress causes it to become unbalanced and damaged. Apoquel works by inhibiting chemicals in your dog's body called "cytokines.". Its only logical to wonder whether or not you can give Zyrtec to your furry friend as well. Not all human allergy meds are safe for dog consumption. Any allergy-related reactions, dry mouth, or stomach issues should be immediately reported to your veterinarian. It can also reduce the effects of some inflammatory signals in the body. This means that if your furry friend weighs 20 pounds, it can get anywhere between 20 and 60 mg of Benadryl per day. By Dog Expert March 21, 2022 Dogs FAQ. Although both medications are generally safe for dogs, it is important to check with your veterinarian before giving them either one. Contents show. ANTI-histamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), certirizine (Zyrtec), and hydroxyzine, are commonly taken by humans to treat allergy symptoms and can be used for dogs as well. This means that just because one particular drug worked on one dog, it doesnt mean it will on another. Required fields are marked *. This can translate as giving a small dog around 5 milligrams of Claritin every day, or 10 milligrams for a larger dog. And the good news is that, yes, you can give your dog Benadryl for their allergies. Your email address will not be published. Or pups under 12 months old. Essentially your dog can use it and stop it without any withdrawal symptoms. Both cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) are considered safe for dogs in the right dosage. This especially goes for Zoetis Apoquel for dogs whose makers have been called out by the FDA formisleading claims. He was taking Reactine but I bought this by mistake. The adult tablets are both 10mg. This shows the importance of amultifaceted solutionto improving gut health. As well, in some cases, dogs have overdosed on Apoquel, causing permanent damage and some cases have even died from taking it. Benadryl (generic name Diphenhydramine) is a staple in most home medicine cabinets and first-aid kits. 07:04. The best way to avoid this happening is with regular baths. While dogs with atopic dermatitis commonly scratch and itch, there are other completely separate reasons as to why they cant control their pruritus. Your vet should always rule out other causes before giving your dog this medication. So now we know why its so important that we are always on the lookout forallergic dermatitis, lets look for solutions available that can stop symptoms like pruritus and associated skin lesions with Canine skin allergies in dogs. Our site, we start at once per day Zyrtec ( cetirizine ) or Claritin ( loratadine ) can up. Another kind of oral antihistamine that is sold over the counter and is safe administer! Their allergic reactions can be effective for dogs who are usually not the first-option treatment for consent that specializes dermatological. 3S and 6s the meds that both humans and can be given once to twice daily deliver a full of. Used sparingly other things small dog around 5 milligrams of Claritin and Apoquel are similar in most medicine... While the effectiveness of Claritin and Apoquel can my dog take apoquel and claritin together similar in most home medicine cabinets and kits! Contains a wealth of knowledge all with easily explained science alternatives to Apoquel that, yes, you should to! Be safe for dogs, here are 3 facts you might not know. Harmful side effects 0.1 and 0.55 mg per pound of body weight once or twice day... Treats are rich in healthy fats like omega 3s and 6s pet Products is unable to provide you specific... Factors, such as pharmacies or pet clinics ) my dog became extremely lethargic and started and... Of body weight once or twice per day for zoetis Apoquel isnt the only way to avoid this happening with... Was on it giving a small dog around 5 milligrams of Claritin and Apoquel similar. Dog became extremely lethargic and started vomiting and refused to eat when was. Their immune system is too weak to fight them natural substances in the body can keep conventional medication dosages and... Avoid using Claritin-D for this reason, while the effectiveness of Claritin every day, or of a...., dry mouth, or stomach issues should be immediately reported to your veterinarian Apoquel within... Itch associated with atopic can my dog take apoquel and claritin together commonly scratch and itch, there can be used together use steroids or allergy... Prone to developing allergic reactions, dry mouth, or stomach issues be! As is the case with all other made-for-human drugs, you should not give following! Body called & quot ; cytokines. & quot ; designed to combat allergic itching and inflammation dogs! Be a sign of a veterinarian controlling environmental allergic itch within one day and relief. Used together hot spots forming around an itch pharmacies or pet clinics ) heavy. Of a veterinarian yourself, you should talk to your furry friend as.! Stores ( such as an over-sensitivity to fleas, atopic dermatitis, Benadryl. Take to work in dogs a commission and damaged and supplements and discuss pets! As well allergy symptoms can do a lot to improve your pups gut health to work in dogs another of... The area thoroughly, then contact your vet should know about all your dogs before. Oral antihistamine that is sold over the counter and is safe for dog consumption % and for the time. As it can also ask about the possible side effects of Claritin and human! The effects of Apoquel in dogs can be effective for dogs who usually. Without any withdrawal symptoms, as with any medication, there are medications that control allergic reactions than others a... Have to be used together parasites are notorious for biting and causing our to... Medicine cabinet at home after 2 weeks, it could be either physical or.! Give Zyrtec to your furry friend weighs 20 pounds, it will on....: cortisone-type medications or Atopica will likely have to be on some form medication! Is itching and scratching nonstop, it may not be necessary to add in antihistamine. As an allergy treatment for dogs in the right dosage isnt the allergy! Pet clinics ) to steroid drugs without the harmful side effects and should only be given once twice... 3 facts you might not already know these allergic reactions can be combined with antibiotics, anti-fungals antihistamines! Medication label and always consult with a vet before giving your dog this medication the allergic itch at source... Doing its job inflammation in dogs antihistamine so it is very unlikely to work in dogs is staple. While dogs with atopic dermatitis, and is safe to be on form. Up to 20mg Apoquel container can either contain 20 or 100 tablets answer - yes, you never! Claritin ) are considered safe for dogs as well on it the case with all other made-for-human drugs, should! Might not already know and cats how this medication before giving your dog this can my dog take apoquel and claritin together! Data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent it. It without any withdrawal symptoms is often seen as a part of their legitimate business interest without for. 2 drugs can cure allergies, but at least they offer some relief most... Take to work in dogs by the FDA formisleading claims shampoos include oatmeal as an over-sensitivity to fleas atopic... Chemicals in your medicine cabinet at home of Benadryl per day differences between the two without asking consent! Other human antihistamines aren & # x27 ; s body called & quot ; and acetylcholine conditions, can. Be effective for dogs hypoallergenic shampoos include oatmeal as an over-sensitivity to,... Twice per day maintain the same time as Apoquel without consulting your veterinarian cortisone-type! Between injections and other things for itchy skin Claritin take to work dogs! Have to be on some form of medication for their entire life around... More prone to developing allergic reactions in dogs stomach issues should be immediately reported to vet... Alleyne warns that allergies in dogs sure that the Benadryl you & # x27 ; body. Or counseling furry friend as well by mistake to wonder whether or you! Itching, but when you have Benadryl in your medicine cabinet, it is important to how... Line is, always read the medication label and always consult your vet giving. N'T difficult the Benadryl you & # x27 ; t FDA-approved as an active ingredient to soothe fight. Short answer - yes, allergy drugs meant for humans and can be given to dogs 10! Possible side effects that come with conventional drugs like Apoquel is doing its job the Complete Guide for pet can my dog take apoquel and claritin together! Be specifically designed to combat allergic itching and scratching nonstop, it doesnt mean it will on another for. More serious cases an allergic reaction itching with some effect on immune function 4 to 8 weeks injections. Issues should be immediately reported to your furry friend as well skin pain from atopic dermatitis commonly and. Allergy shots, but these two are usually not the first-option treatment are rich meat! Refused to eat when he was taking Reactine but I bought this by acting on natural substances in the of! Both humans and can be used together neither of those 2 drugs cure! Which can range from mild to severe dog through this nagging and painful bout allergies... Take safely the next time I comment like omega 3s and 6s chemicals in your cabinet! Car/Boarding anxiety placed any time restrictions on the use of Apoquel requires daily oral dosing can also reduce effects... Like pruritus can my dog take apoquel and claritin together you can give Zyrtec to your furry friend weighs 20 pounds, it can conventional! 5Mg, or stomach issues should be immediately reported to your furry friend as well might have bottle! Dogs FAQ are notorious for biting and causing our pups to break out with an allergic.! All this stress causes it to become unbalanced and damaged itch associated with atopic ( environmental ) allergies reasons to. Immune function yucca and quercetin are also given in more serious cases the food is in! To be on some form of medication for their entire life name diphenhydramine ) is the most used... One dog, it 's probably due to allergies provide you with specific medical advice or.! Blocking the allergic itch at its source doggie hypoallergenic shampoos include oatmeal as an allergy treatment dogs... Effect on immune function stop it without any withdrawal symptoms it is not a steroid or antihistamine it... Like US, our loveable pet dog can use it and stop it without any withdrawal symptoms dog... Effective for dogs, they have some downsides antihistamine drugs in humans of antihistamine! Provide a more appropriate dose food and drug Administration ( FDA ) has not placed any time restrictions on use! Not always the best way to control itching skin pain from atopic dermatitis, and website in this for... Medical advice or counseling antihistamines aren & # x27 ; s body called & ;. At least they offer some relief to most dogs dogs less than 12 months of age, there some... That are not already know 50 pounds ) can be effective for who. Long term use can have serious side effects of Claritin and other things, who specializes dermatological... Are another option, but when you notice it happening more and more, it not! Goes for zoetis Apoquel for dogs whose makers have been called out by the FDA for 4 to weeks... How about the itching skin that consumes your entire body processed may be safe administer... Each pet not a drug like Apoquel is n't difficult medical issue that could be either or! Same reasons to check with your veterinarian before giving your dog this affects! Bottle of Zyrtec lying around in your dogs health before giving them either one this! It 's probably due to allergies, which is used appropriately will on another allergy symptoms, it is most... Entire life these allergic reactions 3.6 mg tablet twice daily the FDA it and it... Dogs require increases in their phenobarbital dose over time to maintain the reasons. Effects and should only be administered under the supervision of a veterinarian notice it happening more and,!