ATOPICA 50 MG 30 CAPSULES | CHRONIC ALLERGIC DERMATITIS IN DOGS

Category

Dermatological, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and antipruritic in soft capsules.

Laboratory: Novartis Animal Health SL

Pharmacological Properties

Active Ingredient: Cyclosporine

Cyclosporine is a cyclic polypeptide that acts as a selective immunosuppressant. Its function is focused on the inhibition of T lymphocytes, preventing the activation that leads to chronic inflammatory processes and pruritus.

Mechanism of action

• Inhibits the activation of T lymphocytes following antigenic stimuli.
• Reduces the production of cytokines such as IL-2, responsible for inflammation.
• Blocks the activation of eosinophils and mast cells, reducing the release of histamine and proinflammatory cytokines.
• It does not affect hematopoiesis or phagocytic cell function.

Indications and Target Species

Dogs: Treatment of chronic atopic dermatitis, an allergic skin condition that causes inflammation, itching, and skin lesions.

Presentations Available

1. Atopica® 25 mg: Dogs from 4 to <7,5 kg.
2. Atopica® 50 mg: Dogs from 7,5 to <15 kg.
3. Atopica® 100 mg: Dogs from 15 to 55 kg.

Dosage and Administration

Initial Dose

• 5 mg/kg of body weight, administered once a day, for at least 4 weeks or until clinical improvement is observed.

Maintenance Dose

• Reduce dosing frequency to alternate days based on clinical response.
• In controlled cases, it can be administered every 3-4 days.

Weight Dosing Scheme

Instructions for use

• Manage 2 hours before or after meals.
• Insert directly into the dog's mouth.

Treatment duration

• If there is no improvement after 8 weeks, discontinue treatment and re-evaluate the diagnosis.
• If symptoms reappear, restart daily treatment and adjust according to clinical progress.

Contraindications

• Do not administer to dogs under 6 months or with weight less than 2 kg.
• Dogs with a history of malignant tumors.
• Concomitant use with live vaccines or during the two weeks before/after treatment.
• Hypersensitivity to cyclosporine or its excipients.

Drug Interactions

1. Substances that increase cyclosporine levels:
   • Ketoconazole (increases up to 5 times).
   • Erythromycin (doubles plasma levels).
2. Substances that decrease cyclosporine levels:
   • Anticonvulsants.
   • Antibiotics such as trimethoprim/sulfadimidine.
3. Caution in combination with:
   • Macrocyclic lactones (ivermectin, milbemycin) due to risk of central nervous system toxicity.
   • Aminoglycoside antibiotics and trimethoprim due to risk of nephrotoxicity.

Side effects

• Very common: Vomiting, diarrhea, loose or mucous stools.
• Frequent: Anorexia, lethargy or hyperactivity, gingival hyperplasia, skin lesions such as warts, auricular redness, changes in coat.
• Rare: Lymphadenopathy, secondary infections, symptoms of prolonged immunosuppression.

Note: Consult your veterinarian if symptoms persist or worsen.

Special Precautions

In animals:

• Confirm the diagnosis of atopic dermatitis before starting treatment.
• Eliminate flea infestations and bacterial or fungal infections before treatment.
• Monitor dogs with a history of diabetes, renal failure, or malignant tumors.
• Avoid concomitant use of other immunosuppressive agents.

In person:

• Wash hands after administering the medication.
• In case of accidental ingestion, seek immediate medical attention.

Conservation Mode

• Store at a temperature below 25 ° C.
• Keep in original packaging to protect from light.

FAQ

1. How long does it take for Atopica® to take effect?

Symptoms usually improve within 4 weeks of continuous treatment.

2. Can I use Atopica® long-term?

Yes, it is safe, but it is recommended to regularly monitor the dog to adjust the dosage as needed.

3. Is it necessary to stop taking Atopica® if side effects appear?

Not always. Most side effects are mild and transient. Consult your veterinarian if they persist or are severe.

4. Is Atopica® compatible with other treatments?

Combination with medications that affect liver metabolism should be avoided without prior consultation with a veterinarian.

5. Can it be administered with food?

No, Atopica® must be taken at least 2 hours before or after meals to ensure its effectiveness.

Key Benefits of Atopica

• Effective control: Reduces itching and inflammation in dogs with chronic atopic dermatitis.
• Proven safety: Well tolerated with manageable side effects under veterinary supervision.
• Easy administration: Softgels of various concentrations to suit the dog's weight.

Atopica® is the ideal treatment to restore your dog's healthy, pain-free skin.