Atopica

What is Atopica?

Atopica is a veterinary medication containing cyclosporine, an immunosuppressant used in dogs and cats to control inflammatory reactions associated with skin allergies. Cyclosporine works by modulating the immune response, helping to reduce inflammation, itching, and skin irritation.
It is considered a reference treatment for atopic dermatitis, a chronic dermatological condition. Atopica does not cure the disease, but it effectively controls symptoms, providing a better quality of life for the animal.
This medication requires a veterinary prescription in Canada.

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What is Atopica used for?

Atopica is used to:

• Treat atopic dermatitis in dogs and cats.
• Reduce skin inflammation, redness, and itching associated with allergies.
• Decrease the frequency of allergic flare-ups.
• Avoid long-term use of corticosteroids, which have more significant long-term side effects.

It is often prescribed when antihistamines or topical treatments are not sufficient to control dermatitis, or when the animal continues to show persistent symptoms despite other treatment approaches.

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Dosage

Atopica capsules are available in the following strengths:

• 10 mg
• 25 mg
• 50 mg
• 100 mg
• 100 mg/mL oral solution (cats)

The exact dosage depends on the animal’s weight and the severity of symptoms. Your veterinarian will adjust the dose based on therapeutic response. Never change the dosage without professional guidance.

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How and how often should I give Atopica to my pet?

Atopica is administered orally, either as a capsule or an oral solution.
Administration recommendations:

• Give once daily, ideally on an empty stomach, either 2 hours before or after a meal.
• In some animals, once symptoms are stabilized, dosing frequency may be reduced to every other day, according to the veterinarian’s recommendations.
• Capsules must be given whole. Do not open, split, or mix them with food.

If your pet experiences vomiting when given on an empty stomach, your veterinarian may allow the capsule to be administered with a small amount of food to improve tolerance.

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What are the side effects and precautions associated with Atopica?

Precautions

• Do not administer Atopica with certain antifungals, antibiotics, or other medications that may interact with cyclosporine.
• Inform your veterinarian of any concurrent treatments.
• Regular monitoring is recommended to ensure proper tolerance, especially during long-term treatment.

Possible side effects
The most common adverse effects include:

• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Gastrointestinal disturbances (diarrhea, abdominal discomfort)
• Gingival hyperplasia (gum swelling, sometimes with long-term use)

These effects are generally temporary. If symptoms persist or become severe, contact your veterinarian to adjust the treatment.

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