Atopica for Dogs and Cats
Managing atopic dermatitis in pets
Atopica is a veterinary prescription medication used to treat atopic dermatitis, also known as atopy, in dogs and cats. Atopic dermatitis is a common allergic skin condition that causes persistent itching, redness, inflammation, and secondary skin infections. It can lead to discomfort and reduced quality of life in affected animals.
Atopica contains the active ingredient ciclosporin, an immunosuppressive agent that targets the underlying cause of atopic dermatitis: an overactive immune response to environmental allergens. Atopica is formulated for oral use and is available in capsule form for dogs and as a liquid oral solution for cats.
Atopica is typically prescribed when topical treatments and dietary adjustments are not sufficient to control the symptoms. It is particularly useful for long-term management of allergic skin disease and is an important therapeutic option in veterinary dermatology.
What is Atopic Dermatitis in Dogs and Cats?
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease caused by an allergic reaction to environmental substances. These allergens are typically harmless to healthy animals but trigger an abnormal immune response in susceptible pets. Common allergens include pollen, mould spores, dust mites, and animal dander.
In dogs and cats with atopic dermatitis, the immune system reacts to these allergens by releasing inflammatory chemicals, leading to itchiness, redness, swelling, and skin damage. The condition is genetic and tends to appear in pets between six months and three years of age, although symptoms can persist throughout their lives.
Signs of atopic dermatitis in dogs may include:
- Excessive licking or chewing of paws
- Scratching behind the ears and underarms
- Hair loss and scabbing
- Recurrent ear infections
- Skin that appears thickened, darkened, or irritated
In cats, signs are often more subtle but may include:
- Over-grooming and hair thinning
- Persistent scratching, particularly around the head and neck
- Red or inflamed skin
- Development of small scabs or lesions
Atopic dermatitis is diagnosed based on clinical history, physical examination, and by ruling out other causes such as parasites or food allergies. Allergy testing may be used to help identify specific allergens.
How Atopica Works
Atopica contains ciclosporin, a selective immunomodulator that suppresses the immune system's inappropriate response to allergens. Ciclosporin works by inhibiting T-lymphocyte activation, which is a key component in the immune process that causes inflammation and itching in allergic animals.
Unlike antihistamines or corticosteroids, ciclosporin specifically targets the cellular mechanisms that lead to inflammation without affecting the entire immune system. This targeted action makes Atopica suitable for long-term use with fewer systemic side effects than traditional corticosteroids.
By reducing the activity of immune cells involved in the allergic response, Atopica helps to control symptoms such as:
- Chronic itching
- Skin inflammation
- Redness and swelling
- Lesions and secondary infections caused by self-trauma
Improvement in symptoms may be seen within 4 to 8 weeks of starting treatment. In some pets, longer treatment periods may be required to achieve optimal results. Atopica is often part of a broader treatment plan, which may include skin supplements, medicated shampoos, or allergen avoidance strategies.
Administration and Dosage
For Dogs:
Atopica for dogs is supplied in capsule form in various strengths to suit different body weights. The recommended starting dose is 5mg per kg of body weight, given once daily on an empty stomach. It is usually administered at least one hour before or two hours after food. Once a satisfactory response has been achieved, the veterinarian may reduce the dosing frequency to every other day or twice weekly for maintenance.
For Cats:
Atopica for cats is provided as an oral solution. The typical starting dose is 7 mg per kg of body weight once daily. The liquid can be given directly into the mouth using a dosing syringe or mixed with a small amount of food. Dosage adjustments may be made based on the response to treatment.
Atopica must only be used under the supervision of a veterinarian, and treatment plans should be followed closely to ensure effectiveness and safety. The product is not intended for short-term relief, and missed doses or abrupt discontinuation can result in a return of symptoms.
Atopica is a potent immunosuppressive drug and must be used according to veterinary guidance. It is not suitable for use in animals with:
- A history of malignancy or progressive malignancies
- Active infections, including bacterial, viral, or fungal skin infections
- Hypersensitivity to ciclosporin or any other ingredient in the formulation
Before starting treatment, pets should be evaluated for underlying infections or other conditions that may be worsened by immunosuppression.
Side effects in dogs may include vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, or gingival hyperplasia (swelling of the gums). These symptoms are often temporary and may improve with continued use or dosage adjustment. In cats, side effects may include gastrointestinal upset, weight loss, or hypersalivation.
Atopica may interact with other medications such as ketoconazole, erythromycin, or certain vaccines. Always inform the veterinarian about any other drugs or supplements the pet is receiving. Regular monitoring through blood tests may be recommended in some cases, especially during long-term therapy.
Atopica capsules for dogs should be stored in a dry place at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. The capsules should be kept in their original blister packaging until use to protect from moisture.
Atopica oral solution for cats should be stored in the original container at the temperature recommended on the packaging. The dosing syringe should be cleaned after each use to maintain hygiene.
Atopica is intended for animal use only and must be kept out of reach of children.
