Few treatments in the world of pet care have received as much attention as Apoquel, a lifesaver for dogs suffering from the pain of constant itching and skin irritation. Pet owners all across the world have found Apoquel as one of the friendly medications that have seen amazing changes in their furry friends after giving them this potent medication.
Although Apoquel can save the lives of both dogs and their owners, there is one aspect of this drug that some people may find frustrating: its exorbitant price. This comfort is frequently accompanied by one unanswered question: Why is Apoquel so expensive and how can we make it affordable?
Behind this relatively effective medicine is a complicated web of elements, each of which adds to the high cost that pet owners are all too familiar with. In this article, we set out on an interesting journey to analyze these components, solve the challenges, and fully discover why Apoquel is so expensive. It’s time to shine some light on the economics of pet pharmaceuticals and discover what makes Apoquel unique.
In this article, we’ll examine the factors contributing to high Apoquel cost and several potential validates why is Apoquel so expensive.
How does Apoquel work?
Apoquel is a prescription medication developed by Zoetis, a leading animal health company. It is primarily used to treat pruritus, or itching, in dogs caused by allergies, skin conditions, or other underlying issues. It is a drug that lessens itching and treats canine atopic dermatitis, a type of allergy, in dogs. Contrary to certain other anti-allergy medications for dogs, Apoquel is neither an antihistamine nor a steroid.
It works by targeting specific components of the immune system and inflammatory pathways to provide relief. As a selective inhibitor of the Janus kinases (JAKs) family of enzymes, Oclacitinib maleate lessens the release of inflammatory cytokines and alleviates inflammation.
Apoquel specifically blocks the activity of particular enzymes known as Janus kinases (JAKs). Apoquel lowers immune cell signaling and activation by blocking JAKs, which reduces inflammation and the immunological response. Immunological cells create cytokine signaling chemicals that control different inflammatory and immunological responses. Interleukin-2 (IL-2) and interleukin-4 (IL-4), which are associated with allergic reactions and inflammation, both can be inhibited by apoquel.
Apoquel aids in minimizing the immune system’s hyperactive response seen in allergic reactions by lowering the synthesis of these cytokines. Apoquel directly alters the signaling pathways that the body uses to relay itch impulses, which results in a decrease in itching. Apoquel helps dogs with allergic skin problems feel less discomfort and irritability by reducing the itch signals that are transmitted to the brain.
Apoquel Side Effects:
Like every other medication, Apoquel also has mild to moderate side effects in Dogs. Although dogs with allergic skin disorders can find great relief from Apoquel, it’s important to be aware of possible adverse effects.
The following are a few of the most often mentioned adverse effects of Apoquel in dogs:
- Reduced appetite
- Diarrhea, vomiting, or gastrointestinal upset.
- Tiredness, Drowsiness
- Increased vulnerability to infections
- Alterations to their coat or skin, like thinning, hair loss, or dryness.
- Increased hunger or gaining weight:
- Behavioral or emotional shifts like anger, and aggressiveness.
How much does Apoquel cost?
Apoquel comes in three oral dosages: 3.6, 5.6, and 16 mg. The variety of strengths and the recommended dose range of 0.18 to 0.27 milligrams per pound—a convenient dosing chart for veterinarians as a reference—make adequate dosing for dogs of most sizes uncomplicated.
Your veterinarian will recommend the right dosage for your dog based on their body weight and medical history. A pack of 20 pills for Apoquel has doses of 3.6 mg, 5.6 mg, and 16 mg.
In the US market, apoquel costs between $80 and $100 based on the product of the country, its dosage strength, and the platform you opt to buy from.
Does pet insurance cover Apoquel?
People also often ask does pet insurance cover Apoquel to ease their financial load. Your specific insurance policy will determine whether or not Apoquel is covered in the US market by pet insurance. Plans for pet insurance usually differ in terms of coverage, deductibles, exclusions, and rates. While certain pet insurance policies may have explicit exclusions for particular prescriptions or treatments, others may cover medications such as Apoquel.
Before deciding whether to get pet insurance, one should carefully research the policy’s terms, including the coverage limitations, exclusions, and any relevant copayments or deductibles. It’s a good idea to investigate several suppliers, contrast available coverage, and look through pet owner reviews to select the plan that best suits your requirements and price range. You are advised to get in touch with the insurance company directly if you have any queries about whether your pet insurance policy covers Apoquel.
To get the best affordable Apoquel price, one can easily check and compare the Apoquel price and then buy Apoquel from an online pharmacy, i.e. LifeRx Pharmacy which offers the most competitive price.
Is there a generic for apoquel?
The most obvious and simple answer to why is Apoquel so expensive is that there is no generic equivalent medication to Apoquel available in the market. Therefore, there is no Apoquel generic available in the United States yet. However, the other factors that determine Apoquel cost include its strength, dosage, product of the country, and local medication dispensing vendor.
Apoquel is protected by patents held by its manufacturer, Zoetis, which limited the availability of generic alternatives. However, the availability of generic medications can change over time, as patents expire and regulatory approvals are granted.
Since the generic medication is not available for Apoquel in the market yet. you can easily buy Apoquel online from LifeRX Pharmacy to get the best affordable price for the Apoquel. It is a user-friendly, convenient accessible online platform that ensures smooth and timely delivery of medication at an affordable price.
Why Is Apoquel So Expensive?
Exploring some more variable contributing factors lets us gain some deeper insights into why is Apoquel So expensive:
- Research and Development: The search for and assessment of a new drug’s safety and effectiveness such as Apoquel comes at a significant cost. Usually, these costs are transferred to customers in the form of higher pricing.
- Limited Competition: Since the beginning, Apoquel has experienced a relative lack of competitiveness in the market. The manufacturer may charge more for a drug when there are few or no substitutes without worrying about losing customers as it simply works on-demand supply chain formula. Due to the absence of rival products, Zoetis can continue to charge a high price for Apoquel.
- Patents and Exclusivity: Patents granted to pharmaceutical companies cover their R&D expenditures. With the use of these patents, companies can establish a monopoly on the drug for an extended period, typically 20 years, during which they can set high prices. Zoetis has been able to regulate pricing by using Apoquel’s patent protection.
- Production Costs: To assure the safety and efficacy of the drug, the manufacture of Apoquel needs specialized procedures and quality control methods. These production expenses might be very high, which raises the price of the drug overall.
- Branding, Marketing, and Distribution: Pharmaceutical companies often spend significant amounts on marketing and distributing their products to veterinarians and pet owners. These expenses are also factored into the medication’s price.
- Regulatory Compliance: Making sure that Apoquel is produced per regulatory regulations, such as safety testing and quality control, comes at an additional cost.
How to lower Apoquel cost?
There are several strategies you can explore to lower the Apoquel cost:
- Check for Generic Options: Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if there is a generic version of Apoquel available.
- Compare Prices: Prices for medications can vary between pharmacies, so it’s a good idea to shop around and compare prices.
- Talk to Your Healthcare Provider: If the Apoquel cost is a concern for you, discuss it with your healthcare provider. They may be able to suggest alternative medications.
Takeaway:
Without a doubt, Apoquel is a beneficial and prescribed treatment for dogs and Cats with skin issues and itchiness. However, many pet owners may find it difficult to afford due to its high price.
Understanding the variables influencing Apoquel’s price, looking into alternate therapies, and taking into account cost-cutting measures can all help to make sure that your pet receives the care it requires without hitting their finances.
We may anticipate more accessible choices for treating our pets’ health issues, such as allergies and itching, as the pharmaceutical industry develops.
FAQs:
Is Apoquel safe for dogs?
Apoquel is generally considered safe and effective for dogs when prescribed and administered under the supervision of a veterinarian. It has been approved by regulatory authorities, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), for the treatment of allergic dermatitis and itching associated with various allergic skin conditions in dogs.
Is Apoquel a steroid?
No, Apoquel (Oclacitinib) is not a steroid. It is a non-steroidal medication used to treat itching and inflammation in dogs, particularly those with allergic skin conditions. Apoquel belongs to a class of drugs known as Janus kinase inhibitors (JAK inhibitors), and it works by specifically targeting certain immune system pathways without the immunosuppressive effects commonly associated with steroids.
Does Apoquel cause cancer?
There was no concrete proof that the drug oclacitinib, or Apoquel, causes cancer in dogs. However, Apoquel does have potential side effects like Gastrointestinal problems (such as vomiting or diarrhea), changes in appetite, and behavioral abnormalities. Most of the time, these side effects are minor and transient.
How long does it take for Apoquel to work?
Within 4 hours, Apoquel reduces allergic dog itch and can be controlled in 24 hours. Up to 14 days of daily Apoquel administration in two doses is followed by daily maintenance therapy in one dose. It can be applied either permanently to treat enduring skin disorders or momentarily to alleviate flare-ups. It is administered twice daily for up to 14 days as part of the therapy plan. One dose per day will be adequate once the first 14 days are up.
Does Apoquel make dogs sleepy?
Although tiredness or drowsiness is not frequently mentioned as a side effect of Apoquel, each dog responds to medication differently. Especially when they initially start taking the medicine, some dogs may exhibit lethargy or moderate drowsiness. Keep a close eye on your dog and contact your veterinarian if you observe any unusual side effects.
Can Apoquel cause diarrhea in dogs?
Indeed, one of the possible adverse effects of Apoquel (Oclacitinib) is diarrhea. Some dogs that take this drug may develop gastrointestinal discomfort, such as diarrhea, vomiting, or decreased appetite, though this may not happen to all of them. Inform your veterinarian about diarrhea or any other troubling side effects if your dog is on Apoquel.
Can Apoquel cause seizures?
When prescribed by a veterinarian and used as directed, Apoquel is generally regarded as safe for use in dogs. Like any drug, Apoquel may cause side effects, and in certain instances, it has been linked to seizures in dogs. Even though seizures are uncommon, it’s important to keep a close eye on your dog while they’re on the drug. When your dog has a seizure while on Apoquel, get help from your veterinarian right away.
Can you buy Apoquel over the counter?
No, Apoquel cannot be purchased over the counter. Apoquel is a prescription drug that is normally only offered by authorized veterinarians. The doctor will examine your dog, identify any underlying issues, and decide whether Apoquel is the best course of treatment. If Apoquel is advised, the vet will write you a prescription with which you can buy Apoquel. One can buy Apoquel from LifeRx pharmacy which offers the most competitive and affordable Apoquel cost. Hope, you have understood why is Apoquel so expensive.
References:
https://ultimatedog.com/5-apoquel-alternatives-that-are-better-for-your-dog/
