Atopica (Cyclosporine)

Do’s

• Follow veterinarian's instructions: This is crucial for determining the correct dosage, frequency, and duration of treatment for your dog's specific needs.
• Administer with food: Give Atopica capsules with food to improve absorption and potentially minimize stomach upset.
• Store medication properly: Keep Atopica capsules in their original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children and pets. Store them at room temperature, protected from heat, light, and moisture.
• Monitor your dog: Observe your dog for any changes in behavior or side effects after starting Atopica.

Don'ts

• Don't exceed recommended dosage: A higher dosage than prescribed by your veterinarian can be harmful to your dog.
• Don't abruptly stop medication: Stopping Atopica suddenly can cause your dog's skin condition to worsen. Gradually taper off the medication as instructed by your veterinarian.
• Don't use expired medication: Check the expiration date on the Atopica packaging and don't use expired capsules. Dispose of them safely according to your veterinarian's instructions.
• Don't open capsules: Atopica capsules should be given whole with food. Do not open or crush the capsules, as this can affect the medication's absorption.
• Don't use it on pregnant or lactating dogs: The safety of Atopica for pregnant or nursing dogs hasn't been established. Consult your veterinarian for alternative treatment options.

Common side effects of Atopica in dogs may include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Muscle cramps
• Muscle weakness
• Change in hair coat

Serious side effects of Atopica in dogs are rare but may include:

• Allergic reactions: Seek immediate veterinary attention if your dog experiences difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips, tongue, or face, or hives.
• Gastrointestinal problems: At the initial dose, gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting and gingival hyperplasia (overgrowth of gum tissue) may occur.
• Other side effects: Less common side effects may include soft stools or diarrhea, loss of appetite, and changes in hair coat.

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Atopica,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Atopica is for dogs only and can be harmful if ingested by humans. Keep the medication and capsules out of reach of children.

If accidental ingestion occurs, contact your physician or animal poison control center immediately. Wear gloves when handling capsules and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.

Use with caution in dogs with renal insufficiency as Atopica's effect on dogs with compromised kidney function has not been fully studied.

The use of Atopica may require using killed vaccines because the medication's impact on the immune response to modified live vaccines is unknown.

Atopica may cause elevated blood sugar levels. Monitor blood sugar levels closely, especially in diabetic dogs, and consult your veterinarian if you notice any signs of diabetes.

Inform your veterinarian about any unknown skin lesions before starting Atopica

The safety of Atopica for pregnant or lactating dogs has not been established. Consult your veterinarian before using Atopica on pregnant or nursing dogs.