What You Need To Know About Cyclosporine (Atopica, Neoral)

What is cyclosporine? Why was it prescribed to my pet?

Cyclosporine is a medication used to suppress an overactive immune system. It is most commonly prescribed for skin allergies caused by environmental allergens such as pollen and dust. It is sometimes also used to treat autoimmune diseases (diseases where the pet’s immune system mistakenly attacks the body).

What forms are available?

Cyclosporine is available in capsule and liquid forms, both of which are given by mouth. Capsule forms are best given on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal). 
Liquid forms may be given on an empty stomach or with a small amount of food. Always follow your veterinarian’s instructions when giving medication to your pet.

Capsule forms: 
•    Atopica for Dogs (25mg, 50mg)
•    Generic - Topiderma (25mg, 50mg)
Liquid forms: 
•    Atopica for Cats (100mg/ml)
•    Neoral (100mg/ml)

What side effects are there?

Vomiting, diarrhoea and reduced appetite are common in the first few weeks of treatment, but are usually mild and resolve on their own. To address this, the medication may be given with a small amount of food, or capsules may be frozen for 1 hour before being given (liquid forms of cyclosporine should NOT be refrigerated or frozen).

Other side effects that are less common but still mild include:
•    Thickening of gums
•    Increased hair growth
•    Skin growths (dogs)
•    Weight loss (cats)
•    Behaviour changes (cats)

Cyclosporine may increase your pet’s susceptibility to infection. Contact your veterinarian if you notice:
•    Fever
•    Lethargy
•    Appetite loss
•    Coughing
•    Runny nose or eyes
•    Frequent, painful and/or bloody urination

When should this medication be used very carefully?

Your veterinarian may take additional precautions if your pet: 
•    Has diabetes
•    Has kidney or liver disease 
•    Is on other medications

Precautions may include measures such as closer monitoring or adjustments to medication doses. For advice specific to your pet, please consult your veterinarian.
Prior to prescribing cyclosporine, your veterinarian may test your cat’s blood for a parasite called Toxoplasma. They may also advise that your cat be kept indoors and not allowed to hunt or consume raw meat.

When should this medication not be used?

Your pet should not receive cyclosporine if they: 
•    Are allergic to it
•    Are pregnant, breastfeeding or being used for breeding 
•    Are under 6 months of age
•    Weigh under 1.4kg (cats) / 1.8kg (dogs) 
•    Have cancer or a history of cancer 
•    Are infected with feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) or feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) (cats)

What monitoring is required for pets on cyclosporine?

It is important to take your veterinarian’s advice and bring your pet for rechecks as needed.
Depending on your pet’s underlying condition, your veterinarian may wish to monitor:
•    Baseline blood and urine tests
•    How well your pet’s symptoms are being controlled
•    For any side effects or signs of infection

Storage and Safety

Capsules should be given whole and not opened or split. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling this medication.
Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets. Cyclosporine should be stored at room temperature in a dry place.
Give this medication for as long as your veterinarian specifies and do not discontinue it without first consulting them. If you miss a dose, give it as soon as possible, but if it is near the time of your pet’s next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and give the scheduled dose. Afterwards, return to your pet’s regular dosing regimen.
Never give a double dose, even if you miss a dose. Contact your veterinarian if you know or suspect that your pet has received an overdose.