Atopica for Dogs Main Uses
Control of the clinical signs associated with atopic dermatitis (a chronic allergic skin condition) in dogs 6 months of age and older, and greater than 2 kg body weight.
It is used to manage the itching (pruritus) and skin lesions/inflammation caused by this immune-mediated disease.
 
Atopica for Dogs Active Ingredients
Cyclosporine, an immunosuppressant.
A selective immune-modulating agent and a calcineurin inhibitor.
It works by acting specifically and reversibly on T-lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell involved in the immune response).
It primarily suppresses the activation of T-cells and inhibits the production of inflammatory chemical signals, such as Interleukin-2 (IL-2) and other T-cell derived cytokines.
By blunting this overactive immune response, it reduces the inflammation and pruritus (itching) associated with allergic dermatitis.
 
Atopica for Dogs Dosage & Administration
The initial daily dose is 5 mg/kg of body weight (with a range of 3.3–6.7 mg/kg/day).
This initial daily dose is typically given for 30 days.
Administration:
Timing: Should be given as a single daily dose, preferably on an empty stomach (at least one hour before or two hours after a meal)
Note: If the dog experiences vomiting after administration on an empty stomach, the veterinarian may recommend trying to give it with a small amount of food
Capsules: The capsules should not be opened or broken
Adjustments:
Weight: Dosage is calculated based on the dog's body weight in kilograms (kg), using specific capsule sizes (10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg) or combinations to achieve the target dosage.
Age: Indicated for dogs 6 months of age and older. Safety and efficacy are not established for dogs less than 6 months old or less than 2 kg body weight.
After the initial 30-day daily treatment (or once clinical signs improve), the dose frequency may be tapered (reduced) by the veterinarian to every other day, or even once every 3 to 4 days, to maintain the desired therapeutic effect.
 
Atopica for Dogs Side Effects & Safety
Common side effects, which are often mild and self-limiting, include: Vomiting, decreased appetite (anorexia), and soft stools/diarrhea. These often occur most frequently during the initial daily dosing period.
Other reported effects: Lethargy, urinary tract infection (UTI), enlarged lymph nodes.
Associated with prolonged administration/elevated doses: Gingival hyperplasia (overgrowth of the gums), which is usually reversible after stopping treatment.
Safety warnings and contraindications:
Contraindications: Should not be used in dogs with a history of malignancy (cancer) or demonstrated hypersensitivity to cyclosporine A.
Cautions: Use with caution in animals with diabetes mellitus or renal (kidney) insufficiency.
Other Warnings: As a systemic immunosuppressant, it may increase the susceptibility to infection or the development of neoplasia (cancer) in rare cases.
Vaccination: Killed vaccines are recommended for dogs receiving Atopica, as the impact of cyclosporine on the immune response to modified live vaccines is unknown.
Reproductive Status: Not for use in breeding dogs, pregnant, or lactating bitches.
 
Atopica for Dogs Manufacturer Information
Manufacturer: Elanco Canada Limited
Official Website: https://my.elanco.com/en_ca/
Brand introduction: Elanco is a global animal health company dedicated to developing and marketing products and services to prevent and treat disease in farm animals and pets. Atopica is one of their prescription veterinary products indicated for the management of atopic dermatitis in dogs.