Atopica for dogs, distributed by Novartis, is a modified cyclic polypeptide oral solution which modified the immune system. Atopica is used in dogs over six months of age and those weighing over four pounds.
WHAT THIS PRODUCT CURES
Atopica for dogs is used to treat cases of atopic dermatitis.
PET SYMPTOMS
PET SYMPTOMS
Atopic Dermatitis is a term used to refer to the overall inflammatory process of the skin. This inflammatory process is most commonly due to allergens of the skin. These allergic reactions can be mild or severe enough to require medical attention. Allergic reactions can be due to a number of conditions; common to northern America allergens such as environmental, mites, and chemical reactions.
A pet which displays this allergic reaction may develop urticaria, or hives. Hives is a sign of an allergic reaction as some form of external element has caused the immune system to over activate itself. The immune system protects pets from harmful microbes, such as parasites, viruses, fungi, and bacteria. It is a rather intelligent system since antibodies form antigens specifically for the harmful microbe while avoiding harming surrounding tissues and organs. In the case of an allergic reaction, however, this highly developed immune system over produces white blood cells and histamine. Signs and symptoms of a pet with an allergic reaction include; shock, breathing difficulties, diarrhea, and weakness, itching, and swelling of the face. These allergic reactions can be caused by external elements such as dander, shampoos, sprays, fleas, or mites.
PET AILMENTS
Allergies are impossible to cure but are very easy to treat. Pets which develop allergic conditions will display aliments such as hives, swelling around the face and neck, reddened skin, loss of hair, biting, chewing, and excessive licking.
PETS WITH ALIMENTS
Vet's Best Seasonal Allergy Support Supplement for Dogs, 60 Tablets
Vet's Best Seasonal Allergy Support Supplement for Dogs, 60 Tablets
RELATIVE INFO ON BREED MOST ASSOCIATED WITH THIS AILMENTSkin allergies, forms of dermatitis, and Eosinophilic plaque are not conditions which are linked to cat breed but their specific genetics or immune systems.
QUESTIONS FOR MY VET
1. When is the best time to administer medication?
- Directly after the pet eats with a little food or alone.
2. Atopica suppresses the immune system. Does that mean my pet will be helpless against other viruses?
- Yes, pet owners should take caution with their pets while administering this medication. Avoid contact with unfamiliar pets and change shoes before entering the house to prevent contamination.
3. Will Atopica affect my pet’s vaccine schedule?
- As vaccines are meant to increase a pet’s immune system, Atopica should not be taken during a scheduled vaccine.
4. How do I know what is causing my pet’s allergies?
- In pets, it can be difficult to narrow down the possibilities of an allergic reaction. Talk with your veterinarian about conducting an allergic variable test to determine the cause of allergies.
5. Could I be causing my dog’s skin allergies?
- Yes. Some pets are hypersensitive to some perfumes, shampoos, aerosol sprays, and foods.
6. Are there any drugs which can interact with Atopica?
- Pets currently taking methylprednisone or ketoconazole should not take Atopica.
7. How long can I store this medication?
- Atopica product expires two months after opening.
How it Works
Atopica is unique from the other allergy treatments as it is not an antihistamine or a corticosteroid. Instead, Atopica is an immune suppressant focusing on inhibiting the T-suppressor cells and T-helper cells. The T-suppressor cell aids in forming antibodies against the allergen and the T-helper cells help to make antibodies to fight the rest. These two cells are a part of the immune repose in a cat’s allergic reaction, therefore, by suppressing these cells the allergic reaction response will diminish.
DIRECTIONS FOR USE:
Dogs:
- Administer medication with food or within mouth.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION:
| Dosage | Consistency | Treatment Duration |
| 3.2mg/lb (7mg/kg) | Daily | 30-45 days |
IngredientsModified cyclosporine
100 mg/mL
Product Cautions
Product will suppress immune system, secondary infections may occur.
Keep product away from children and other pets.
Do not use product in cats.
PET: Do not use if your dog has a history of malignant disorders or has developed a hypersensitivity to cyclosporine.
HUMANS: Not intended for human use. Store product away from children. In case of accidental ingestion seek medical help immediately.
Storage and disposal
Storage: Store container between 59 and 77 degrees F at room temperature. Do not store longer than two months.
Disposal: Empty containers should be disposed of as directed and never re-used. Recycling or garbage disposal is viable as directed upon product label. Consult a medical waste agency for directions to depose of remaining drug and container. Contact 1-800-CLEANUP for additional information.
BRAND VS GENERIC COMPARISON
The generic formation of Atopica is Cyclosporine capsules, USP modified. These two products are equivalent to one another, yet, the generic formation is not liquid concentrated.