Atopica

Atopica is a veterinary-exclusive immunosuppressant containing a modified formulation of cyclosporine, a cyclic polypeptide metabolite produced by the fungus *Beauveria nivea*. It is specifically engineered as a microemulsion to enhance oral bioavailability in companion animals. Marketed by Elanco (following the acquisition of Novartis Animal Health), Atopica is FDA-approved for the control of atopic dermatitis in dogs and feline allergic dermatitis in cats. The drug's primary mechanism of action involves binding to cyclophilin within T-lymphocytes to form a complex that inhibits calcineurin, a phosphatase required for the activation of transcription factors like NFAT. This inhibition prevents the transcription and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, most notably interleukin-2 (IL-2), thereby modulating the immune-mediated skin inflammation and pruritus characteristic of allergic conditions.

Brand names

Atopica

Other names

cyclosporine modified