Overview
Atopica® by Elanco is a veterinary prescription medication formulated to manage chronic atopic dermatitis in dogs. It contains cyclosporine, an immunomodulatory agent that helps reduce inflammation and itching by modulating the immune system. Atopica is suitable for dogs of various sizes and is designed for long-term use under veterinary supervision to improve skin health and comfort.
✅ Key Benefits / Features
- Targets the underlying immune response causing allergic skin inflammation
- Reduces itching, redness, and skin lesions associated with atopic dermatitis
- Non-steroidal alternative for chronic allergy management
- Helps minimize reliance on corticosteroids and their side effects
- Proven long-term efficacy with flexible dosing options
- Well tolerated with minimal sedation
🧪 Ingredients
- Active Ingredient: Cyclosporine (modified)
-
Inactive Ingredients may include:
- α-Tocopherol (Vitamin E)
- Gelatin
- Glycerol
- Propylene glycol
- Corn oil derivatives
- Titanium dioxide
- Iron oxide pigments
- Ethanol
- Macrogolglycerol hydroxystearate
📊 Nutritional Composition / Active Ingredients
| Component |
Function |
| Cyclosporine |
Immunomodulatory agent |
| Vitamin E |
Antioxidant support |
| Excipients |
Capsule stability and delivery |
💊 Uses / Indications
- Management of chronic atopic dermatitis in dogs
- Reduces pruritus and inflammation caused by environmental allergens
- May be used in combination with other therapies for severe cases
- Not indicated for food allergies or flea allergy dermatitis unless underlying causes are concurrently addressed
🐾 Feeding Instructions / Dosage
- Administer orally once daily, as directed by a veterinarian
- May be tapered to alternate-day dosing based on clinical response
- Should be given at least one hour before or two hours after meals
- Capsules must be swallowed whole; do not open or crush
- Wear gloves during administration and wash hands afterward
⚠️ Possible Side Effects
-
Common:
- Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea)
- Gum overgrowth
-
Less common:
- Lethargy
- Weight changes
- Skin thickening
-
Rare:
- Increased susceptibility to infections
- Development of neoplasia (due to immunosuppression)
🔄 Drug & Food Interactions
-
May interact with:
- Certain antifungals and antibiotics (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin)
- Medications affecting liver enzymes
- Live vaccines (should be avoided during treatment)
- Food may reduce absorption; administer separately from meals
⚠️ Precautions
- Not recommended for dogs with a history of cancer or severe infections
- Use with caution in pregnant or lactating dogs
- Monitor for signs of diabetes, kidney or liver dysfunction during long-term use
- Rule out other causes of skin irritation before initiating therapy
- Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight
- Keep out of reach of children and other animals
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IMPORTANT NOTICE - THIS IS A PRESCRIPTION ONLY MEDICATION (POM)
POMs are stored and dispensed directly from Ohana Animal Hospital under veterinary supervision.
As required by law, orders for this product will only be processed and delivered after our veterinary team has reviewed your pet's prescription and medical history, who may contact you or your existing vet for more details. Clients are encouraged to Autoship this product to avoid unnecessary delays.
Don't have a prescription? Use our VetCare Rebate program to enjoy $400 off when you renew your prescription.
