Apoquel Dosing Chart
The Apoquel Dosing Chart is a health reference tool covering apoquel dosing chart, apoquel dose by weight, apoquel dosage chart for dogs, apoquel mg/kg chart. Use the chart below to look up values instantly. Printable and downloadable versions are available on this page.
Apoquel Dose Calculator
Enter your dog's weight to get the recommended dose in mg, tablet combination, and dosing schedule.
For reference only. Always follow your veterinarian's specific dosing instructions.
Apoquel Dosage Chart for Dogs by Weight
| Dog Weight (lbs) | Dog Weight (kg) | Dose (0.4 to 0.6 mg/kg) | Tablet Strength Typically Used |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6.6 to 9.9 lbs | 3.0 to 4.5 kg | 1.3 to 2.7 mg | 3.6 mg tablet (use half) |
| 10 to 14.9 lbs | 4.6 to 6.8 kg | 1.8 to 4.1 mg | 3.6 mg tablet |
| 15 to 19.9 lbs | 6.8 to 9.1 kg | 2.7 to 5.5 mg | 3.6 mg tablet |
| 20 to 29.9 lbs | 9.1 to 13.6 kg | 3.6 to 8.2 mg | 5.4 mg tablet |
| 30 to 44.9 lbs | 13.6 to 20.4 kg | 5.4 to 12.2 mg | 5.4 mg tablet or 16 mg tablet (half) |
| 45 to 59.9 lbs | 20.4 to 27.2 kg | 8.2 to 16.3 mg | 16 mg tablet |
| 60 to 89.9 lbs | 27.2 to 40.8 kg | 10.9 to 24.5 mg | 16 mg tablet |
| 90 to 129.9 lbs | 40.8 to 59.0 kg | 16.3 to 35.4 mg | 16 mg tablet (1 to 2 tablets) |
| 130 lbs and above | 59.0 kg and above | 23.6 mg and above | 16 mg tablets (multiple — confirm with vet) |
Apoquel is available in 3.6 mg, 5.4 mg, and 16 mg tablets. The standard dose is 0.4 to 0.6 mg per kg of body weight twice daily for the first 14 days then once daily for maintenance. Do not give to dogs under 12 months of age or under 6.6 lbs.
Source: Zoetis Apoquel prescribing information
Apoquel Dosing Schedule
| Phase | Frequency | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Initial treatment phase | Twice daily (every 12 hours) with or without food | First 14 days |
| Maintenance phase | Once daily (same time each day) | Ongoing as directed by veterinarian |
If a dose is missed give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose skip the missed dose — do not double up. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What Apoquel Is Used For
- Atopic dermatitis (environmental allergies) — the most common reason dogs are prescribed Apoquel. It controls itch associated with skin contact and inhalant allergens (pollen, dust mites, mould).
- Allergic dermatitis — itch and inflammation associated with flea allergy, food allergy reactions, and contact allergies.
- How it works — Apoquel (oclacitinib) is a JAK inhibitor that selectively blocks Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) and JAK3 signalling pathways involved in itch and inflammation. Unlike steroids it does not broadly suppress the immune system at standard doses.
- Onset — Apoquel begins reducing itch within 4 hours of the first dose and provides 24-hour control at maintenance dosing.
Apoquel Side Effects and Contraindications
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Common side effects (reported in trials) | Vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, decreased appetite, increased susceptibility to skin infections (especially at higher doses or with prolonged use). |
| Less common side effects | New skin lumps or bumps, ear infections, urinary tract infections, papillomas (warts) in some dogs on long-term therapy. |
| Contraindications | Do not use in dogs under 12 months of age. Do not use in dogs with serious infections. Use with caution in dogs with a history of cancer — Apoquel may increase the risk of neoplasia with long-term use. |
| Drug interactions | Use caution when combining with other immunosuppressive drugs. Inform your vet of all current medications. |
| Monitoring recommended | Annual bloodwork is recommended for dogs on long-term Apoquel therapy. |
Source: Zoetis Apoquel prescribing information and FDA veterinary drug database
Apoquel Dose Calculator
Enter your dog's weight in lbs or kg to get the recommended dose in mg, suggested tablet combination, and dosing schedule.
For reference only. Always follow your veterinarian's specific dosing instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Apoquel used for in dogs?
Apoquel is a prescription medication used to control itch and inflammation associated with allergic skin conditions in dogs — primarily atopic dermatitis and allergic dermatitis. It works by blocking JAK1 and JAK3 signalling pathways that trigger itch and inflammation.
How long does it take Apoquel to work?
Apoquel begins reducing itch within 4 hours of the first dose. Most dogs show significant improvement within 24 hours and full benefit is typically seen within the first 14 days of twice-daily dosing.
Can Apoquel be given long term?
Yes — Apoquel is approved for long-term use in dogs with chronic allergic skin conditions. Dogs on long-term Apoquel should have annual bloodwork to monitor for any adverse effects.
What are the side effects of Apoquel?
The most commonly reported side effects are vomiting, diarrhoea, and lethargy — usually mild and temporary. Less common but notable effects include increased susceptibility to skin and ear infections and the development of skin papillomas (warts) with prolonged use.
Can Apoquel be given with food?
Yes — Apoquel can be given with or without food. If vomiting occurs after administration giving the tablet with a small amount of food often reduces stomach upset.
Is Apoquel safe for all dogs?
Apoquel should not be given to dogs under 12 months of age or those with serious active infections. Use with caution in dogs with a history of cancer as the drug modulates immune signalling.
What is the difference between Apoquel and Cytopoint?
Apoquel is a daily oral tablet that blocks itch-signalling pathways from inside the cell. Cytopoint is a monthly injectable monoclonal antibody that neutralises canine interleukin-31 — a key itch-signalling molecule — outside the cell. Both are effective but work by different mechanisms.
Can I give my dog Benadryl instead of Apoquel?
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is an over-the-counter antihistamine that provides mild itch relief for some dogs but is far less effective than Apoquel for moderate to severe atopic dermatitis. Apoquel specifically blocks the itch pathway in canine skin while antihistamines work on a different mechanism that is less relevant to the itch associated with atopic dermatitis in dogs.