What This Calculator Does
This tool estimates the per-administration dose of Apoquel (oclacitinib) for a dog based on its body weight. Apoquel is a prescription veterinary medication used to control itching (pruritus) and inflammation associated with allergic and atopic dermatitis. The manufacturer's labeled dosing target is approximately 0.4 to 0.6 mg of oclacitinib per kilogram of body weight, given twice daily for up to 14 days, then reduced to once daily for long-term maintenance.
How to Use It
Enter your dog's weight and choose kilograms or pounds. The calculator converts pounds to kilograms automatically (\(1\text{ lb} = 0.45359237\text{ kg}\)) and returns a target dose at the 0.5 mg/kg midpoint plus the low (0.4 mg/kg) and high (0.6 mg/kg) ends of the range. Compare these milligram values against the available tablet strengths — 3.6 mg, 5.4 mg, and 16 mg — with the guidance of your veterinarian.
The Formula Explained
The dose is a simple linear function of weight:
$$\text{Dose} = \text{Weight (kg)} \times 0.4 \text{ to } 0.6 \;\text{mg}$$Using the midpoint rate of 0.5 mg/kg gives a convenient estimate, while the 0.4 and 0.6 multipliers bracket the acceptable label range that your vet rounds to the nearest practical tablet combination.
Worked Example
A dog weighs 22 lb. Converting: \(22 \times 0.45359237 \approx 9.98\text{ kg}\). Target dose \(\approx 9.98 \times 0.5 \approx 4.99\text{ mg}\), with a range of about 3.99 mg (low) to 5.99 mg (high). A vet would likely dispense a 5.4 mg tablet per dose.
FAQ
How often is Apoquel given? Typically twice daily for up to 14 days, then once daily for ongoing maintenance.
Can I dose my dog without a vet? No. Apoquel is prescription-only. This calculator is for educational estimation; your veterinarian determines the exact dose, tablet strength, and suitability.
What if my dog is between tablet sizes? Vets combine tablet strengths or split scored tablets to reach a dose within the 0.4–0.6 mg/kg range — never adjust on your own.
