Atopivet: Topical

What is Atopivet®?

Atopivet® topical products are formulated to help maintain a healthy skin barrier. These products contain the ingredients Biosfeen®, a lipid extract, and Dermial®, a source of glycosaminoglycans (GSGs), which have been shown to support the skin. Atopivet® products are used to support skin health. Atopivet® products are used in cats and dogs. This product is available through licensed veterinarians.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not review non-drug health products (e.g., herbals, nutraceuticals, shampoos, and other supplements) for safety or effectiveness before they are sold to the public. Manufacturers of non-drug health products must ensure their products are safe and labeled accurately. The FDA requires that these non-pharmaceuticals contain a disclaimer that says, “This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” 

Health Canada licenses “veterinary health products” after reviewing safety, efficacy, and manufacturing information provided by the manufacturer. These products are not tested by Health Canada.

"All medicines and medicinal plants are potentially toxic if used inappropriately or given at high doses."

Your veterinarian is the best source of information about the safety of non-drug health products in pets. Just because a product is natural does not mean it is safe. All medicines and medicinal plants are potentially toxic if used inappropriately or given at high doses. Supplements can also have side effects, like pharmaceuticals. Few supplements and herbs have been subjected to rigorous scientific trials to determine their efficacy. 

Although the information in this handout may be helpful, it also may be incomplete and may not represent the full range of effects the supplement could have on your pet. 

How do I give my pet Atopivet®?

Atopivet® skin care products are available over-the-counter in the forms of a mousse, spot-on, and skin-care collar.

Atopivet® Mousse is a topical product (to be applied to the skin only).

• Follow your veterinarian’s direction for application.
• Avoid the eyes and mouth. 
• Do not rinse.
• Let air dry. 
• Once dry, brush the hair coat.

Atopivet® Spot-On is a topical product (to be applied to the skin only).

• Follow your veterinarian’s instructions for application. 
• Avoid exposure to water (bathing, swimming) at least two days before and after application of Atopivet® Spot-On. For best results, apply directly on affected areas or part the pet’s fur and apply entire contents of pipette directly to the skin between the shoulder blades and down the back.
• Do not contact or allow children to touch the application site until dry.

Atopivet® Collar is worn around your pet’s neck.

• Follow label instructions for applying the collar. 
• Cut off any excess collar length of greater than 1 inch (2.5 cm) beyond the closure.
• For best results, the collar should be worn continuously for two months. It can be worn while bathing or swimming.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose of Atopivet®; apply it as soon as you remember and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once. 

Are there any potential side effects from Atopivet®?

Atopivet® may cause the following side effects:

• skin irritation

If this side effect occurs, stop giving Atopivet® and contact your veterinarian. 

Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

The Atopivet® collar should NOT BE USED in:

• patients with a known sensitivity to this product
• patients with a damaged or irritated neck
• puppies less than four months old

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment. There are no documented drug interactions for this medication. 

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If side effects occur, discontinue the medication, and contact your veterinarian. 

How do I store Atopivet®?

• Follow the specific storage recommendations for each product. 
• Keep all Atopivet® products out of reach of children and pets. 
• Store all Atopivet® products in a cool dry place, lower than 77° F (25°C), and away from direct sunlight. 
• Ask your veterinarian for disposal instructions. Do not flush medicines down the sink or toilet unless instructed to do so.

For Atopivet® mousse formulation:

• Atopivet® mousse is an extremely flammable aerosol in a pressurized container. It may burst if heated. 
• Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. 
• Do not smoke near this medication. 
• Do not spray Atopivet® mousse on an open flame or other ignition source. 
• Do not pierce or burn the container, even after use. 
• Protect from sunlight. 
• Do not expose to temperatures exceeding 50°C/122°F.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.