Apoquel 3.6mg

What This Medication Is Used For

Apoquel (oclacitinib) is a prescription medication veterinarians use to help control itching linked to allergies in dogs over 12 months of age.

Conditions it is used for:
• Itching (pruritus) associated with allergic dermatitis
• Atopic dermatitis in eligible dogs

Typical symptoms before treatment:
• Persistent scratching, licking, or chewing
• Redness, irritation, or inflamed skin
• Flare ups that affect sleep, comfort, or daily routine

When veterinarians commonly prescribe it:
• When allergy itch continues despite basic skin care and trigger management
• When a dog needs ongoing symptom control as part of a larger plan
• When your vet wants a different option that targets itch signalling.

How It Works

Apoquel is a Janus kinase inhibitor. It works by reducing certain immune signals linked to itch and inflammation. It does not cure the underlying allergy. It helps manage symptoms while your veterinarian addresses triggers, infections, parasites, and skin barrier care when needed.

How it differs from older or alternative treatments:
Some options are broad in how they affect the body, and some can cause drowsiness. Apoquel is often chosen when a veterinarian wants a more targeted approach for itch control, based on your dog’s history and current medications and vaccines.

Why vets use it for ongoing management:
Allergy conditions can require long-term follow up. Apoquel may be part of that plan if your veterinarian determines ongoing control is appropriate, and longer-term monitoring of your dog is available.

Dosage and Strength Information

Your veterinarian determines the dose and schedule based on your dog’s weight, diagnosis, and health history. Do not adjust the plan on your own.

What this specific strength is generally prescribed for:
The 3.6 mg strength is often selected when a veterinarian needs a lower-strength tablet to match a smaller dog’s plan, or to fine-tune a prescription without splitting tablets.

Other Apoquel strengths (tablets):
• Apoquel 5.4 mg
• Apoquel 16 mg

Chewable options may also be available:
• Apoquel Chewable 3.6 mg
• Apoquel Chewable 5.4 mg
• Apoquel Chewable 16 mg

Safety Information and Possible Side Effects

Side effects vary by dog. In field studies, vomiting and diarrhea were among the commonly reported effects, and they occurred in a small percentage of dogs. Decreased appetite and lethargy were also reported. May increase susceptibility to infection, exasperation of existing and new skin growth has been reported.

Contact your veterinarian if you notice:
• Vomiting or diarrhea that does not settle
• Reduced appetite, marked tiredness, or behaviour changes
• New skin lumps, worsening skin infection, fever, or any sudden change that concerns you

Apoquel is indicated for dogs at least 12 months of age. It is not for use in dogs with serious infections, evidence of immune suppression, or evidence of malignant neoplasia. It is also not for use in breeding dogs, pregnant, or lactating bitches. Your veterinarian will review risks and monitoring based on your dog’s medical history.

Prescription Requirements in Canada

A valid veterinary prescription is required in Canada for prescription medications. The prescription must come from an accredited clinic in Canada and be written by a licensed veterinarian practicing in Canada.

How prescription upload and verification works:
• Your veterinarian can call or fax the prescription to the pharmacy
• You can request that the pharmacy contact your veterinarian for authorization
•We must have the original in our possession prior to releasing medication, even if a copy is attached to the order. Please mail in the original or bring it in when picking up.

Prescription items are not shipped until the prescription is received and verified. Prescription items also need to be associated with a pet profile during checkout.

Shipping and Fulfillment Information

Prescription approval is required before the order can ship. Orders ship within Canada by Canada Post, with service options selected at checkout. Prescription shipments require proof of delivery, which may result in card-for-pickup at your local postal outlet with matching identification.

After a new prescription is received, a pharmacist may contact you to review the medication and help prevent delays. You are charged when the order is assembled and ready to ship.

Pricing note: Pricing is listed per tablet, and a dispensing fee applies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Apoquel 3.6 mg the same medication as other strengths?
Yes. The active ingredient is the same. The strength changes, and your veterinarian selects the strength that fits your dog’s prescription.

Can I switch between tablets and chewable tablets?
Ask your veterinarian before switching. The form can affect how your dog takes the medication, and your veterinarian should confirm the plan.

Can I split or crush Apoquel tablets?
Do not change how the tablet is given unless your veterinarian tells you to. Altering a tablet can affect the prescribed plan.

Why do I need to add my pet and veterinarian details?
Prescription items must be linked to a specific pet and a prescribing veterinarian so the pharmacy can verify authorization and dispense safely.

What should I do if my dog develops vomiting or diarrhea after starting Apoquel?
Contact your veterinarian, especially if signs persist, your dog seems unwell, or you notice appetite or behaviour changes.