Atopica for cats, distributed by Novartis, is a modified cyclic polypeptide oral solution which modified the immune system. Atopica is used in cats over six months of age and those weighing over three pounds.
WHAT THIS PRODUCT CURES
Atopica for cats is used to treat cases of self-induced alopecia, eosinophilic plaques, military dermatitis, and allergy dermatitis.
PET SYMPTOMS
Allergies are highly common in humans as well as our pets. These allergic reactions can be mild or severe enough to require medical attention. 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. Antibodies can also be passed down from the mother’s colostrum or first milk to a puppy. The colostrum contains the main elements to start the young dog’s immune system. 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. In some cases the cat’s genetics can cause an allergic reaction, this form of reaction is called Eosinophilic plaque. Eosinophilic plaque refers to ulcerated lesions which appear on the abdominal and leg region of a cat. These rounded lesions are filled with eosinophils, a type of white blood cell which responds to immunity. Eosinophilic plaque is genetically passed down to new offspring and will develop in cats as early as two years old. A cat which has this plaque will develop skin erosions, reddened skin, and loss of hair, engorged lymph nodes, and raised lesions.
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, engorged lymph nodes, and raised lesions.
Diphenhydramine 50mg Capsules 100ct btl
PETS WITH ALIMENTS
Diphenhydramine 50mg Capsules 100ct btl
RELATIVE INFO ON BREED MOST ASSOCIATED WITH THIS AILMENT
Skin 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 cat’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:
Cats:
Remove child safety cap from medicine bottle.
Remove rubber stopper from the medicine bottle and dispose.
Place plastic adapter into the top of the bottle (this piece remains in the bottle at all times).
Place dosage syringe in adapter end and fill to appropriate mark with medication.
After use place child safety cap back on medicine bottle and store syringe.
Do not wash or rinse syringe in between uses.
Administer medication with food or within mouth.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION:
Dosage
Consistency
Treatment Duration
3.2mg/lb (7mg/kg)
Daily
30-45 days
Ingredients
Modified 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 dogs.
PET: Do not use if your cat has a history of malignant disorders, infected with FeLV, FIV, 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.