Atopica for Dogs

Atopica Capsules for Dogs are a treatment to relieve itchy skin caused by chronic manifestations of atopic dermatitis.

This is a prescription item and will be sent once a valid prescription is received. Please follow the instructions given by your vet.

What is Atopic Dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis is one of the most common skin diseases in dogs. It is a genetic, predisposed inflammatory which causes the skin to develop hypersensitivity to environmental allergies. Typical allergens that can cause this disease is house dust mites, pollen, mould spores and occasionally foods.

The most likely breeds of dog to be affected are: Terriers, Boxers, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers.

The first signs of atopic dermatitis will be between the first 6 months and 3 years of your dog's life. It causes pruritus (severe itching of the skin) but initially, there will be no signs of lesions. When the lesions are visible, they will start at friction areas or skin folds.

Atopica is supplied in 10mg, 25mg, 50mg and 100mg capsules and sold in packs of 15. The 10mg and 50mg are a yellow-white oval capsule and the 25mg and 100mg are a blue-grey oblong capsule.

The recommended dose is 5mg per kg bodyweight (detailed dosing shown below):
2-3kg - 1x 10mg
3-4kg - 2x 10mg
4-7.5kg - 1x 25mg
7.5-15kg - 1x 50mg
15-29kg - 1x 100mg
30-35kg - 3x 50mg
36-55kg - 2x 100mg

Initially, Atopica will be given daily until clinical improvements are seen. This normally happens within 4 weeks. Once the dermatitis has been satisfactory controlled, the dose can be dropped to every other day. In some cases, the dose can be dropped again to every 3/4 days. 

Atopica should be given at least 2 hours before or after feeding. Insert the capsule directly into the dog’s mouth.

Once the clinical signs of atopic dermatitis are satisfactorily controlled, Atopica can then be given every other day as a maintenance dose. In some cases where the clinical signs are controlled with every-other-day dosing, your vet can decide to give Atopica every 3 to 4 days.

Do not use in dogs less than 2kg in weight or less than 6 months of age.