Side Effects of Atopica

Atopica, manufactured by Novartis, is a cyclosporine capsule given orally to dogs for relief of atopic dermatitis symptoms such as itching, skin eruptions, flaking skin, hair pulling and foot chewing. Instead of using steroids and corticosteroids, Atopica treats this allergic skin reaction without the hazardous side effects of long-term steroid use. Side effects of Atopica are minor and transient with continued use and careful dosing.

  1. The Facts

    • Cyclosporine (CsA) is an immunosuppressant drug. What that means is that CsA shuts down the dog's immune system far enough to reduce the symptoms of atopic dermatitis. Closing down the immune responses in the dog leaves the dog vulnerable to infection from viruses, bacteria and fungi, which can spawn side effects from the secondary infections unrelated to Atopica. Side effects of Atopica should clear up with continued use past the first few weeks.

    Types

    • Drug trials of Atopica given to dogs over a 12-month study period found common side effects of short-term vomiting and diarrhea, soft or mucoidal stools, development of oral growths called "skin tags" and excessive growth of gum tissue. Other side effects can include muscle weakness or cramps, changes in the coat and loss of appetite. Footpad callusing and reddened or swollen ear flaps have also been reported.

    Considerations

    • Side effects of Atopica or certain other medication being given to a dog can increase if the drugs interact. Discuss with your veterinarian other drugs your dog is taking, including herbal medications, before beginning Atopica. If your dog is on Atopica and needs a vaccination, the suppressed immune system will react to the modified live virus in the vaccine differently, perhaps allowing the infection.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Side effects of vomiting and diarrhea should resolve themselves with continued dosing. Otherwise, dividing the dosage, temporary interruption in dosing or giving with a small amount of food can help. Swelling gums can be relieved with tapering of the dosage.

    Warning

    • Atopica should not be used in dogs who are or will be pregnant, nursing or have a history of malignant cancers. Dogs suffering from an infection, kidney disease, liver disease, stomach ulcers or other chronic serious condition should not take Atopica. The FDA has not approved use of Atopica for dogs smaller than 4 pounds.
      Unusual bleeding, bruising, pale stools and darkened urine, chills or fever, difficulty breathing, hives and swelling of the tongue or face are symptoms of a serious reaction to the medication, not expected side effects and require immediate veterinary attention.

    Expert Insight

    • One of the inactive ingredients in Atopica capsules is castor oil, which makes some dogs vomit. Veterinarians Alison Diesel and Karen A. Moriello suggest that by starting with a lower dose and giving the drug with small amounts of food at the start of treatment, vomiting may be avoided. Work up to the full dose needed for atopic dermatitis and move to dosing on an empty stomach slowly.