Allergies are a common year-round problem in New Mexico caused by atopic dermatitis (pollen, trees, grasses, molds), fleas, contact allergens, and food. All can cause severe itch, skin inflammation and result in secondary bacterial infection. There are many treatments that have been used for years, but real relief for many patients has been elusive
Two newer products, Apoquel and Cytopoint, are now available for our canine family members to help bring real, sustained help in winning the battle against allergies. These newer products help to provide a balanced set of methods that together, allow us to rapidly treat all four of the causes of itch due to allergies.
Apoquel is an oral tablet that works within your dogs’ skin cells to control itch and inflammation associated with allergic skin disease. Dogs must be at least 12 months of age. Relief can occur in as little as four hours. Unlike other commonly used medications (steroids, antihistamines, cyclosporine), Apoquel works to inhibit key enzymes associated with inflammation producing cytokines. Apoquel is giving twice daily for the first 14 days then once daily for long term symptom relief.
Cytopoint is an injectable biological therapy that prevents the itch stimulus by inhibiting and neutralizing inflammatory cytokines before they ever reach your dog’s skin cells. This product is monoclonal antibody for dogs of any age, and aids in long-lasting relief of clinical signs associated with atopic dermatitis. A single injection of Cytopoint works within two hours and can help control itching for four to eight weeks.
Both Apoquel and Cytopoint allow us to help control itching in your dog and that in turn gives the damaged skin time to heal permitting your dog to, again, begin having a more healthy, comfortable life.
Dr. Don Newman