Product details
Atopica Capsules for Dogs contain cyclosporine (modified), an immunosuppressive agent that treats itching, inflammation, and skin lesions in dogs with atopic dermatitis.
This product is a capsule formulation.
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Atopica (cyclosporine capsules) is the first medication approved for Atopic Dermatitis (AD) in dogs.
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Provides safe, long-term itch relief for dogs to reduce incessant scratching, rubbing and licking.
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Approved for dogs at least 6 months of age, weighing at least 4 lbs.
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Easy to give - simply give one Atopica soft gelatin capsule to your dog daily, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal (or as otherwise directed by your veterinarian).
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Let your dog get back to the things they love most, and ask your veterinarian if Atopica is right for them.
NOTE: Different formulations of cyclosporine may not be interchangeable; only use the formulation prescribed by your veterinarian.
Product sourced directly from the manufacturer or their approved distributor. Guaranteed genuine product backed by the manufacturer.
For
Dogs (weighing at least 4 pounds and at least 6 months of age)
Active ingredient(s)
Cyclosporine
Inactive ingredients
Complete inactive ingredients list not provided by manufacturer.
Brand name
Atopica
Drug class
Immunosuppresant
Manufacturer
Elanco
Product strength & size
Atopica Capsules may be available in multiple strengths and/or sizes. Please select the appropriate option for your pet, as recommended by your veterinarian.
For current availability, please refer to the product selection above.
Usage
*For complete product information, please review the full prescribing information in the manufacturer package insert.
Atopica Capsules for Dogs should be given orally as directed by your veterinarian. Please consult your veterinarian before making any changes or discontinuing the prescribed dosing schedule.
Wear gloves during administration and wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling.
Capsules should be kept sealed in their original packaging until administration and should not be broken, split, or opened.
Atopica capsules should be given on an empty stomach (at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal). It is important to be as consistent as possible when administering this medication (e.g., time of day, with/without food).
Capsules can be frozen for 30 to 60 minutes prior to administration to help avoid gastrointestinal side effects (e.g., vomiting).
If your pet vomits or appears unwell after receiving the initial dose on an empty stomach, give future doses frozen or with a small amount of food. If vomiting continues, contact your veterinarian.
Your veterinarian may need to perform bloodwork and/or monitor your pet closely while taking this medication. Do not miss any follow-up visits.
Missed doses
Administer the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place at a controlled room temperature between 59° and 77°F. Keep this medication sealed in its original packaging and out of the reach of children and pets. Do not puncture foil and expose capsules until it is time for administration. Store away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.
Side effects
The most common side effects of this medication are vomiting, diarrhea/soft stools, and decreased appetite. These effects are more likely to appear at the start of treatment (or after a dose change) and usually resolve over time.
Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet has swelling/overgrowth of the gums, significant/ongoing weight loss, complete loss of appetite, unusual behavior changes, shows any signs of infection (e.g., fever, chills, frequent or painful urination), or if you notice yellowing of the skin, whites of the eyes, and/or gums.
Notify your veterinarian if your pet experiences any of the effects described above, or if you notice any other side effects that are persistent or troublesome.
If you notice anything unusual, please consult your veterinarian.
Precautions
*For complete product information including warnings and precautions, please refer to the manufacturer package insert.
Different formulations of cyclosporine may NOT be interchangeable; only use the formulation prescribed by your veterinarian.
Approved for use in dogs only- not for human use.
Do NOT use in dogs with a history of cancer or other abnormal tissue growths (neoplasia), breeding dogs, or those that are pregnant or lactating.
Cyclosporine may increase the risk of developing an infection or neoplasia.
Use with caution in animals with diabetes, kidney disease, or an active infection.
Do not administer to animals with a known history or suspected allergy/hypersensitivity to this medication (cyclosporine) or any of its ingredients. Allergic reactions to medications may occur. Be sure to inform Vetsource and your veterinarian if your pet has any known drug sensitivities or allergies.
If your pet displays symptoms of an allergic reaction, discontinue therapy and call your veterinarian immediately or seek emergency veterinary attention. Symptoms may include (but are not limited to): swollen lips, tongue, face, or airways, difficulty breathing, agitation, profuse salivation, and widespread hives or itching.
Human exposure warning
This medication is classified as hazardous due to potential exposure risks in humans, including individuals who are actively trying to conceive, as well as to women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, and those who may become pregnant.
Unopened, intact capsules may not pose the same degree of risk as injectable drugs, which usually require extensive preparation. Do NOT break, open, or otherwise manipulate capsules, as this will increase the risk of exposure. Wear gloves when administering this medication, and wash hands thoroughly with soap and water afterward (even if gloves are worn).
Drug and food interactions
Atopica (cyclosporine) may delay or reduce the immune response to vaccinations. Live and modified-live vaccines are not recommended while receiving this medication.
The following drugs* may have potential interactions with this medication: ACE inhibitors (e.g., benazepril, enalapril), amlodipine, azole antifungals (e.g., fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole), corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone, prednisone), digoxin, estriol, fluoroquinolone antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin, enrofloxacin), JAK inhibitors (e.g., ilunocitinib, oclacitinib), loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide, torsemide), methotrexate, mycophenolate, NSAIDs, phenobarbital, sertraline, spironolactone, sulfa antibiotics, telmisartan (Semintra), and warfarin.
*NOTE: this may not be a comprehensive list. Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.
Please ensure your veterinarian is aware of all medications and supplements that your pet is currently receiving. Your veterinarian may prescribe multiple medications, even if a potential drug interaction may occur. In these instances, your veterinarian may adjust the dosages or monitor your pet more closely.
Adverse reactions
If you are concerned that your pet has experienced an adverse reaction to this medication, please contact the manufacturer Elanco at 1-888-545-5973 or Vetsource Pet Owner Care at 877-738-4443.
Overdose
If you have any reason to suspect an overdose, call your doctor/veterinarian or the appropriate poison control resource immediately.
For humans:
The national toll-free Poison Help line, 1-800-222-1222, will connect you to your local poison center in case of emergency. This service is available nationwide and in most U.S. territories.
For animals:
The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at 888-426-4435.
Pet Poison Helpline® also provides a 24/7 animal poison control service at 855-764-7661.
*Please note: this information is for third-party services and is provided for convenience in case of potential poison-related emergencies. There may be consultation fee for these services.
Disclaimer
The content provided on this page is NOT medical advice.
All content, including the images and product description above, is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional veterinary consultation, diagnosis, or treatment.
Consult your veterinarian for complete information about this product and how it fits into your pet's individual treatment plan.
Last revised: 7/07/2025