Oclacitinib

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Oclacitinib (trade name Apoquel) is a medication used in the treatment of allergic dermatitis (including atopic dermatitis) and pruritus in dogs. It is a Janus kinase inhibitor, which means it interferes with the signaling pathway that leads to itching and inflammation.

Mechanism of action[edit | edit source]

Oclacitinib works by inhibiting the function of certain enzymes in the body known as Janus kinases. These enzymes play a key role in the process of inflammation and itching. By blocking their activity, oclacitinib can help to reduce these symptoms.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Oclacitinib is primarily used to treat allergic dermatitis and pruritus in dogs. It can be used both for short-term relief of acute symptoms and for long-term management of chronic conditions.

Side effects[edit | edit source]

The most common side effects of oclacitinib include vomiting, diarrhea, and anorexia. Less commonly, it can cause new cutaneous or subcutaneous lumps, and may increase susceptibility to infections and demodicosis. Rarely, it can cause severe adverse effects such as pneumonia, skin and ear infections, and aggression.

Veterinary use[edit | edit source]

In veterinary medicine, oclacitinib is used to manage pruritus associated with allergic dermatitis in dogs, including those with atopic dermatitis. It is also used to manage clinical manifestations of atopic dermatitis in dogs.

See also[edit | edit source]

Oclacitinib Resources
Doctor showing form.jpg
Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD