Zenrelia (ilunocitinib tablets) for dogs

Zenrelia (Ilunocitinib) Tablets for Dogs

For dogs at least 12 months of age. Prescription required.

Product Description

Zenrelia is a once-daily oral JAK inhibitor from Elanco, indicated for the control of pruritus associated with allergic dermatitis and the control of atopic dermatitis in dogs at least 12 months of age.

It targets the itch pathway directly, which is why relief comes quickly rather than building over weeks. Dosing is straightforward: one tablet a day from the start, with no loading period and no tapering. It can be given with or without food, is labeled for dogs as small as 6.6 lbs, and contains no pork, beef, soy, lactose, or dairy.

For a dog with chronic atopic dermatitis, itching is not a cosmetic problem. It costs the dog sleep, leads to skin damage and secondary infection, and is genuinely miserable to live with on both ends of the leash. Because canine atopic dermatitis is a chronic condition, there is no limit on how long Zenrelia can be used.

Specifications

Active ingredient: ilunocitinib
Species: dogs at least 12 months of age
Form: scored tablet
Prescription required
Available in four strengths: 4.8 mg, 6.4 mg, 8.5 mg, and 15 mg

How to Use

Give once daily, with or without food, exactly as prescribed. No loading dose and no tapering are needed, and treatment can be started or stopped at any time, but discuss any change with your veterinarian before making it.

Use the strength your veterinarian prescribed. The tablets are scored, so follow the prescription for whether a tablet should be split.

If your dog spits out or only partially swallows a dose, don't immediately re-dose. Call your veterinarian. In most cases they will have you watch for increased itching and simply give the next dose as scheduled the following day.

Boxed Warning: Vaccination

Dogs receiving Zenrelia are at risk of an inadequate immune response to vaccines. Zenrelia should be discontinued for at least 28 days to 3 months prior to vaccination and withheld for at least 28 days after vaccination. Dogs should be up to date on vaccinations before starting Zenrelia. Your veterinarian will determine the right pause for your dog.

Plan around this. If your dog is due for boosters, or if boarding, grooming, or daycare requires current vaccination, raise it with your veterinarian before starting rather than discovering the conflict later.

Important Safety Information

Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. For use in dogs only.

Ilunocitinib is an immunosuppressant. It may increase susceptibility to infection, including demodicosis, and may worsen existing parasitic skin infestations or pre-existing cancers. Dogs should be free from serious infection before starting.

Tell your veterinarian about all other medications your dog receives, particularly other immunosuppressants or corticosteroids.

Contact your veterinarian if your dog develops signs of infection, unusual lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting or diarrhea, new lumps, or worsening skin lesions while on treatment. Your veterinarian may want periodic bloodwork during long-term use.