Hi,
We have a 16 year old Lhasa Apso who has been on Atopica for about a year now. So far the results appear quite good. Lenny has had severe atopic dermatitis all his life and he is pretty much allergic to everything that is in a typical test. He responds well to corticosteroids (prednisolone) during bad flare ups but these are not for long term use as you have probably already encountered. He has also had the desensitisation vaccine which also helped immensely. He also responds to symptomatic treatment with antihistamines (Polaramine) but mainly when the flare up is not too severe.
The atopica was prescribed by Dr Sharon Bryden at Murdoch University Vet Hospital, she is a specialist dermatologist who has had some initial success using atopica to treat bad allergies. So far it is working really well and he is down to 1 tab every other day (originally 1 tab per day). Like the desensitisation vaccine there is a chance your dog will respond and also a chance it won't. Depending on your financial circumstances we would say it is worth a go and if possible consult with a specialist dermatologist like Dr Bryden. (get a referral letter from your vet) Atopica costs quite a bit though.. I think it works out around $10 per dose, not including the costs of specialist consults etc
My understanding is that in the doses currently being trialed for allergy treatment long term immune system effects can usually be controlled. Your dog will also need to have the associated tests to confirm that it isn't being put at risk on long term cyclosporin (the active ingredient in Atopica)...
So far we'd say it's been worth it for Lenny. Hope that helps.
