Atopica for dogs is a medication given to pets with skin allergies or other skin irritations and problems. The medication is given in soft capsule form, and should relieve the common symptoms associated with canine atopic dermatitis.
Symptoms that are associated with dermatitis and skin allergies may include:
- excessive itching or scratching
- skin lesions
- sores
- redness
- hair loss
- foul odors on skin
- licking or gnawing
- flakey skin
- skin infections
- sleep disturbances
Pet owners will need to obtain a prescription from a veterinarian before using Atopica on their pets as a treatment for skin allergies.
Atopica should only be used on dogs that are over the age of 6 months and dogs that are over 4 pounds in weight. Like all pet medications, Atopica should be used with caution and pet owners should closely follow all instructions provided to them by a veterinarian.
About Atopica for Dogs
As mentioned earlier, Atopica is a medication used on dogs that suffer from skin irritations and infections associated with atopic dermatitis or skin allergies. Atopica works by directly targeting the immune cells that are responsible for skin allergies and allergic reactions in the body. One dose per day should be plenty to clear up a mild to moderate case of atopic dermatitis, but many dogs will only need a dose every 2 to 3 days if the condition is not severe.
When your pet suffers from skin allergies, he or she can be in constant discomfort. Using Atopica will greatly relieve your pet's uncomfortable symptoms and will dramatically reduce itchiness, redness and soreness on the skin. The medication is proven effective in the majority of dogs when used as directed. It is also a much safer treatment option than steroids, and is completely safe and effective if used as a long-term treatment, unlike most steroid treatments. When used long-term, Atopica should not create any serious side effects in your pet.
Cautions and Warnings Associated with Atopica
Like a large number of medications, Atopica can cause drug interactions when used with other medications. It is important to discuss all medications and antibiotics your pet may be taking with your veterinarian before giving your pet Atopica as a skin treatment. Atopica should never be given during meal time, and it is best to give the medication at least an hour before feeding. After your pet has eaten, wait at least 2 to 3 hours to give your pet Atopica.
Atopica may cause stomach upset in certain animals as a side effect, as well as vomiting and diarrhea. Signs of an allergic reaction may include swelling of the tongue, lips, mouth, or face, and hives. Difficulty breathing may also be a sign of a severe allergic reaction. In the event of an allergic reaction, contact a veterinarian as soon as possible, before administering Atopica again, if your pet experiences:
- excessive diarrhea
- vomiting
- muscle weakness
- loss of appetite
Always follow instructions on dosage amounts when administering Atopica to your pet. In the event of a missed dose, give the missed dose as soon as possible, but do not give your pet a double dose unless instructed to do so by a veterinarian.