Honestly, all the steroids are pretty horrible. I speak from experience with a previous dog and from personal experience with having been on steroids myself. Unlike other medications, side effects of systemic steroids (oral or injection) are certain to occur with long term / regular use and include diabetes, osteoporosis, bone death, ruptured ligaments and tendons, muscle wasting, cataracts, and potentially life-threatening adrenal insufficiency. My current dog has horrible allergies but so far we have been able to get by with topical steroids. It's hard seeing them suffer but do carefully weigh the pros and cons of steroids. In support groups for people on steroids they are often refered to as "Satan's Tic-Tacs" because they are life saving in the short term yet side effects quickly mount and have a profound negative effect on quality of life. All the best! Here is a good article explaining more about steroids: https://www.whole-dog-journal.com/issues/7_7/features/Corticosteroids-For-Canine_5647-1.html
itching
- Thread starter petdoors
- Start date
The Quahog
Forums Enthusiast
I'm just curious as to why no one is mentioning Apoquel, let alone Cytopoint? If you are indeed dealing with atopy (environmental allergies) these are the current state of the art. Prednisone (cortisone) has its place for short term use, antihistamines (Benadryl) are safe but largely ineffective. It is a complex issue, with Omega 3s, topicals etc all playing their part, but Apoquel is generally the drug of choice.
Ann
Moderator
I'd never heard of this one, Dr. Mac. That's why you're the vet! Good to know, thanks for the information!
Sharon7
Moderator
Ally had this too and we had to do the occasional cortisone treatment and it WORKS. As long as you are not on it long term you should be fine. You need to break the cycle of scratching or an infection is likely. In a dog allergic to fleas, just one bite will make them itch, so you may need to change flea treatment. Frontline does not work well at all in our area, for instance.
Calliesmom
Moderator
Dr Mac posted about it here some time ago when it was new. Glad to hear that it does work.
I have been on steroids off and on all my life due to my respiratory issues, and the long term effects are horrible. I just was not sure if they were the same steroids that were given to dogs. They have so many names. I had a dog on prednisone and one on a steroid I had never heard of. The poor pup itching though It has to be miserable. Is there a natural steroid that you know of? And Satans Tic Tacs are the best name for them.!!!
Yes, unfortunatly they are the same and come with all the same risks. Steroids are basically synthetic versions of natural cortisol which has the same effects at higher levels (which are required for a therapeutic effect).
My boy hasn't responded to antihistamines or Apoquel. Actually, the only remedy I've had any luck with is a herbal tincture called "Soothe" that was developed by our vet. They do ship if you contact them and have natural flea and tick repellents as well: www.pandosyvet.com
The main thing is really to find out what is causing the problem and avoid any allergens as much as possible. A dermatology vet really will be the most efficient at helping with this. Best of luck!
Caro
Moderator
Actually had one vet prescribe Apoquel for Deska for atopic dermatitis and then the vet dermatologist told me not to use it. Can't remember why now - I'd have to look back at the notes.
With anti-histamines sometimes it's a matter of finding the right one. Tully has grass allergies and was on prednisone when younger (learnt to counter surf then), nowadays she's on phenergan (1/4 dose unless it's bad then 1/2 dose) which works really well. But if I don't want her very tired I use cetirizine - which only lasts about 3-4hrs
have you tried essential oils tinctures at all? I read that some can be so beneficial for skin issues.
I have heard a lot about fleas becoming immune to the flea treatments. What is the best flea treatment? His is out and I have 5 days to find another.