AtopicaElanco Animal Health has announced a revision to the canine Atopica SPC, designed to provide veterinary surgeons with more flexible treatment options for canine atopic dermatitis

The updated license now states that consideration should be given to the use of other measures and/or treatments to control moderate to severe pruritus when initiating therapy with Atopica.

Elanco says pruritus control can be provided by combining Atopica with anti-inflammatory doses of prednisolone, the safety and efficacy of which has been confirmed in a clinical study1 included on the updated Atopica package leaflet.

The company says the changes to the SPC have been made in recognition of the importance of understanding the underlying cause of the itch and whilst treating dermatology cases can be a complex process, good clinical practice suggests a tailored multi-modal approach depending on the individual case.  This can be done in three stages:

  • Good clinical diagnosis
  • Short-term plan - consider all medications to treat secondary infections to get the pet feeling comfortable.  For example parasite control, antibiotics, antipruritics and antifungals as appropriate
  • Long-term plan - treat the underlying cause of the disease as appropriate.  For example a multi-modal approach combining Atopica, regular shampooing, diet and essential fatty acids.

Alice Laurens, DVM MRCVS, dermatology marketing manager at Elanco Animal Health, said: "Dermatology cases can be difficult to treat, however the new flexible approach and the ability to combine Atopica with prednisolone will swiftly help to control pruritus in the short-term and keep the pet comfortable in the long-term."

Further information about common dermatological conditions in dogs and cats, together with a diagnostic tool are available at: www.vetassistdermatology.com.  

Reference

  1. Dip et al. BMC Veterinary Research 2013 9:173

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