Apoquel vs Prednisone & Prednisolone: what's the difference?
How Apoquel and Prednisone & Prednisolone compare: what each is for, how it works, side effects and cost, side by side.
Last updated: October 2026 · 3 sources · see sources
Side by side
| Apoquel | Prednisone & Prednisolone | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | Oclacitinib | Prednisone / prednisolone |
| Brand names | Apoquel | Prednis-Tab, Deltasone, PrednisTab |
| For | Dogs | Dogs and cats |
| Prescription | Prescription | Prescription |
| Used for | Controls itching from allergic skin disease, including atopic dermatitis, in dogs at least 12 months old. Vets occasionally use it for other skin problems. [1] | Used for inflammation, allergies, immune diseases, Addison's disease and some cancers. [2] |
| How it works | It blocks JAK enzymes, which are part of the signal chain that drives itch and inflammation. Many dogs feel relief within a day or two. [1] | Corticosteroids calm the immune system and reduce inflammation. Cats get prednisolone because they don't convert prednisone well. [2] |
| Common side effects | Vomiting, diarrhea or a lower appetite; tiredness; a higher chance of infections such as urinary, skin or respiratory infections; new skin lumps. [1] | More thirst, urination and appetite. At higher doses or long-term: panting, vomiting, diarrhea and behavior changes. [2] |
| Use with care | Not for dogs with recent or current demodectic mange, serious infections, or cancer. Wear gloves or wash your hands after handling. Call your vet about fever, breathing trouble or any new lump. [1] | Never stop suddenly after regular use; your vet will taper it. Don't combine with NSAIDs. Long-term use needs rechecks. [2] |
| Typical price | Apoquel pills, per fill: $30–$90 [3] | No reliable published price |
| Full guide | Apoquel guide | Prednisone & Prednisolone guide |
Key differences
- They aren't made for the same animals: Apoquel is for dogs; Prednisone & Prednisolone is for dogs and cats.
- They belong to different medicine groups on our site: Apoquel: allergy & itch; Prednisone & Prednisolone: steroids & immune.
Which one is right for my pet?
That is a call for your vet. They weigh your pet's age, weight, other health problems, other medicines and what you can realistically give at home.
Switching from Apoquel to Prednisone & Prednisolone is common, but do it only with your vet's plan.
Common questions
What is the difference between Apoquel and Prednisone & Prednisolone?
Both can stop allergy itch. Apoquel targets the itch signal; prednisone is a steroid that calms the whole immune system and is used for many other conditions too.
Is Apoquel better than Prednisone & Prednisolone?
Neither is better for every pet. Your vet chooses based on your pet's species, age, health history, other medicines and what you can manage at home.
Can my pet take Apoquel and Prednisone & Prednisolone together?
Only if your vet says so. Some medicines in the same family should not be combined, and others are often used together. Always check before adding or switching.
Do Apoquel and Prednisone & Prednisolone need a prescription?
Apoquel: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian. Prednisone & Prednisolone: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian.
How much do Apoquel and Prednisone & Prednisolone cost?
Apoquel: Apoquel pills, per fill $30–$90. Prednisone & Prednisolone: no reliable published price. Prices vary by pet size, pharmacy and clinic.
Related
This page is general information for planning, not veterinary advice. Talk to your vet about your own pet.