By Dial A Vet Veterinary Team
Last updated: 5 November 2026
A dog with allergic skin can scratch, lick and chew until the skin is raw, and the itch often gets worse at night. Apoquel is one of the most widely used medicines for this problem. Many owners also ask whether there is something from the pet shop or pharmacy that does the same job. The honest answer is that over-the-counter products can help a little, but they do not work the same way.
Key takeaways
- Apoquel is the brand name for oclacitinib, a tablet used to manage itch from allergic dermatitis, including atopy, in dogs at least 12 months old.
- VCA notes it should start working within one to two days.
- Side effects can include vomiting, diarrhoea, reduced appetite, lethargy, more infections and new skin growths.
- It should not be used in dogs with demodectic mange, serious infections, cancer or a history of cancer, or in pregnant, nursing or breeding dogs.
- Dogs on long-term Apoquel need periodic blood tests.
- Over-the-counter options such as antihistamines and omega fatty acids are much less reliable for controlling itch.
How Apoquel works
VCA explains that oclacitinib blocks enzymes involved in itch, inflammation and allergic reactions (Janus kinase enzymes, JAK1 and JAK3). In many patients it is as effective as corticosteroids, but with fewer side effects. It is labelled for allergic dermatitis in dogs. Use for other skin conditions, or in cats, is off label, so follow your vet's directions closely.
Signs your dog may have allergic itch
VCA describes atopy (environmental allergy) as an allergy to things such as pollens, moulds and dust mites, with signs usually starting between 2 and 6 years of age. Common signs include:
- chronic or recurrent itching, seasonal or year round
- recurring skin or ear infections
- red skin and reddish-brown saliva staining from licking
- scratches and abrasions from self-trauma
Parasites such as fleas, mites and lice, bacterial skin infections and ringworm can look similar, so your vet will usually rule these out first. Our guide to why a dog may be itching and losing hair explains more.
Giving Apoquel safely
VCA's handling advice:
- give it by mouth, with or without food (with food if your dog gets an upset stomach)
- it is considered a hazardous drug, so wear gloves when handling it and wash your hands afterwards
- people who are pregnant or nursing should not handle it
- wear gloves if you clean up vomit after a dose
- if you miss a dose, give it when you remember unless the next is nearly due, and never double up
VCA notes it is short acting and stops working within about 24 hours, so missed doses often mean the itch returns quickly.
Side effects
VCA lists:
- vomiting, diarrhoea and decreased appetite
- lethargy
- greater risk of infections, such as urinary, respiratory and skin infections
- new skin growths
Stop the medicine and contact your vet immediately if you notice a new skin mass, fever, shortness of breath or other signs of infection.
Who should not take it
VCA advises against oclacitinib in dogs that:
- have current or recent demodectic mange
- have a serious infection, such as pneumonia
- have cancer or a history of cancer
- are pregnant, nursing or used for breeding
- are younger than 12 months
Interactions and monitoring
VCA notes short-term use of corticosteroids or cyclosporine alongside oclacitinib has been shown to be safe, but prolonged combined use has not been evaluated and is not recommended. It can be combined with antihistamines, NSAIDs, anti-seizure medicines, allergy immunotherapy and vaccines. Periodic blood tests are recommended for dogs on long-term treatment, because some dogs develop lower white blood cell counts. Your vet will also ask you to check for lumps on or under the skin.
What about over-the-counter alternatives?
It is tempting to look for a cheaper option, but it helps to be realistic. Based on VCA's overview of atopy:
- Antihistamines are sometimes tried, but appear to be relatively ineffective for dogs that are already itchy. Never give a human antihistamine without checking with your vet, because some products contain other ingredients that are unsafe for dogs.
- Omega fatty acids (omega 3 and 6) give some relief for many allergic pets by reducing inflammatory chemicals in the skin and supporting the skin barrier. They work best as part of a plan, not on their own.
- Bathing and topical products such as medicated shampoos, sprays and mousses can help, and frequent bathing may reduce the allergens absorbed through the skin.
Prescription options other than Apoquel include lokivetmab (Cytopoint), an injection that lasts weeks, as well as corticosteroids, cyclosporine and allergen-specific immunotherapy. Our article on the Cytopoint injection for dogs explains that option. VCA notes allergies are managed rather than cured, and many dogs need lifelong care.
When is it urgent?
See your local vet or nearest emergency vet clinic promptly if your dog on Apoquel has:
- a fever, breathing difficulty or seems very unwell
- a new lump that grows quickly
- a painful, swollen or smelly area of skin or ear
- signs of an allergic reaction such as facial swelling or hives
FAQ
Can I buy Apoquel without seeing a vet?
Apoquel is prescribed by a vet after examining your dog, partly because some dogs should not take it and long-term use needs monitoring.
Is Apoquel a steroid?
No. It blocks JAK enzymes involved in itch and inflammation.
Can puppies take Apoquel?
VCA advises against it in dogs younger than 12 months.
Apoquel or Cytopoint, which is better?
It depends on your dog. Apoquel is a daily tablet that wears off within a day. Cytopoint is an injection that lasts at least 4 to 8 weeks. Your vet will match the choice to your dog's health and your routine.
Talk with a vet
If you are weighing up Apoquel, Cytopoint or other ways to manage your dog's itch, Dial A Vet's real vets and vet nurses can talk through the options on a video consult and help you prepare questions for your regular clinic. Fever, breathing trouble or a fast-growing lump need your local vet or nearest emergency vet clinic. Dial A Vet consults cover dogs and cats. Book a video consult with Dial A Vet.
References
- VCA Animal Hospitals. Oclacitinib.
- VCA Animal Hospitals. Inhalant Allergies (Atopy) in Dogs.
- VCA Animal Hospitals. Lokivetmab.
Disclaimer: Educational only. This page does not replace an examination or advice from your own veterinarian. If you are worried about your pet right now, contact your local vet or nearest emergency animal hospital.