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Advanced Veterinary Care Farmington, Connecticut
Advanced Veterinary Care 376 Scott Swamp Road Route 6 (Next to Mama Luke's & East of Wal*Mart) Farmington, CT, 06032 Dr. Nicole Sylvestre, DVM Dr. Bridget Kviten, DVM Dr. Chelsea Marko, DVM
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Cyclosporine Oral
What is cyclosporine?
Cyclosporine (Atopica®) is an immune-modulating medication, which means it adjusts the body’s immune response. It is used to treat immune-mediated diseases, such as atopic dermatitis (skin allergies), in cats and dogs. Cyclosporine works by acting on the immune cells involved in an allergic reaction and reduces inflammation and itching associated with allergies. Cyclosporine is also used to treat other immune-mediated conditions.
The use of cyclosporine for conditions other than allergic/atopic dermatitis in dogs or cats is considered off-label (extra label). Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
How do I give my pet cyclosporine?
Cyclosporine is considered a hazardous drug, so it is essential to avoid accidental exposure. Wear gloves when handling the medication and do not handle if you are pregnant or nursing. If your pet vomits after giving this drug, wear gloves while cleaning up. Depending on the condition being treated, this medication can take up to six weeks before full effects are noted, but gradual improvements are usually noticeable throughout the treatment.
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then wait the recommended time for the next dose, as prescribed by your veterinarian. For some conditions, if it is close to the time for the next dose, you can skip the dose you missed, give it at the next scheduled time, and then return to the regular dosing schedule. Never give the pet two doses at once.
Cyclosporine may cause the following side effects in dogs and cats:
Cyclosporine may cause the following side effects in dogs:
Cyclosporine may cause the following side effects in cats:
Cyclosporine suppresses the immune system, so increased susceptibility to infection and the development of neoplasia (cancer) are rare but possible. Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short- to moderate-acting medication should stop working within one to three days, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.
DO NOT USE cyclosporine in:
USE WITH CAUTION in:
Several medications should be used with caution when given with cyclosporine, including:
Cyclosporine can decrease the immune system’s response to vaccinations, so modified live vaccines should be used with caution if a pet is taking cyclosporine.
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any treatment.
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms. If human exposure to the medication occurs, wash the area thoroughly.
© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Last updated on May 27, 2025.
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376 Scott Swamp Road Route 6 (Next to Mama Luke's East of Wal*Mart) Farmington, Connecticut, 06032 Phone: (860) 677-0309 Fax: 860-677-0805 Email: advancedvetcare@comcast.net
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