Cyclosporine (Atopica)
Brands: Atopica, Sandimmune
Cyclosporine (Atopica) is used to treat atopic dermatitis in pets.
Used for
- atopic dermatitis
- autoimmune disorders
- inflammatory bowel disease
How it is given
- Administration
- oral
- Frequency
- once daily
- Duration
- typically long-term, as prescribed by a vet
- Storage
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and light.
- Pregnancy safety
- caution
Always confirm the exact dose with your veterinarian before giving any medicine.
Typical dose ranges
cat
- Standard
- 7 mg/kg once daily
dog
- Large dogs
- 100 mg once daily
- Small dogs
- 25 mg once daily
- Medium dogs
- 50 mg once daily
Ranges are reference only. Your vet sets the dose for your pet's weight and condition.
Active ingredients
- Cyclosporine
Side effects
Common
- vomiting
- diarrhea
Rare
- gum hyperplasia
Severe
- signs of infection
Do not use when
- history of malignancy
- severe kidney disease
Interacts with
- ketoconazole
- erythromycin
Warnings
- monitor for infections
- use caution in liver disease
Cyclosporine (Atopica) questions
What if I miss a dose?
Administer when remembered but skip if close to next dose.
Can cyclosporine be used long-term?
Yes, with regular vet monitoring.
Is it safe for pregnant pets?
Use with caution; consult your veterinarian.
How long does it take to work?
Improvement often seen within 4 weeks.
Can I stop the medication abruptly?
Consult your veterinarian before making changes.
Full drug detail
Overview
Cyclosporine, known by the brand name Atopica, is a medication primarily used to treat atopic dermatitis in dogs and cats. It is part of the calcineurin inhibitor class and works by suppressing the immune response, effectively controlling inflammation and allergic reactions.
How It Works
Cyclosporine inhibits the activity of calcineurin, an enzyme that plays a crucial role in activating T-cells of the immune system. By blocking this enzyme, cyclosporine reduces the immune system's response to allergens and decreases inflammation and itching.
Uses & Indications
Cyclosporine is mainly prescribed for:
- Atopic dermatitis
- Autoimmune disorders
- Inflammatory bowel disease (off-label)
Dosage Guidelines
Dosage should be determined by a veterinarian based on the pet's weight and condition severity.
- Dogs:
- Small (up to 10 kg): 25 mg once daily
- Medium (10-25 kg): 50 mg once daily
- Large (25-50 kg): 100 mg once daily
- Cats:
- Standard: 7 mg/kg once daily
Administration
Cyclosporine is administered orally, typically as a capsule.
Side Effects
Common
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Rare
- Gum hyperplasia
Severe
- Signs of infection (requires immediate veterinary attention)
Precautions & Warnings
- Not recommended for pets with a history of malignancy.
- Use caution in pets with kidney or liver disease.
Drug Interactions
Cyclosporine may interact with:
- Ketoconazole
- Erythromycin
Storage
Store at room temperature away from moisture and light.
FAQ
- What if I miss a dose? Administer the missed dose as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for the next dose.
- Can cyclosporine be used long-term? Yes, but regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor for side effects.
- Is it safe for pregnant pets? Use with caution; consult your veterinarian.
- How long does it take to work? Improvement is often seen within 4 weeks.
- Can I stop the medication abruptly? Consult your veterinarian before making any changes.
Meta Title
Cyclosporine (Atopica) for Pets: Uses, Dosage & Side Effects
Meta Description
Learn about Cyclosporine (Atopica) for pets, including uses, dosage, side effects, and precautions. Always consult your vet before use.