Skin Flint Podcast Ep.39 - I'm All Right, Jak!
Feat. Dr. Stephen Shaw

Latest Skin Flint Epsiode Out Now!

 

I’m All Right, JAK! - Understanding JAK Inhibitors in Canine Atopic Dermatitis

Podcast Episode Summary

In this episode of Skinflints, we are joined by veterinary dermatologist Dr Stephen Shaw to discuss the role of JAK inhibitors in managing canine atopic dermatitis. Stephen explains the underlying disease process, highlighting the key cytokines involved in itch and inflammation, and how JAK inhibitors provide rapid, broad-spectrum control by blocking these signalling pathways.

The discussion explores how treatment should be tailored to each individual dog, considering disease severity, secondary infections and long-term management goals. Stephen also explains the benefits of using JAK inhibitors during food trials, their role alongside other therapies, and practical considerations such as monitoring, vaccination and managing concurrent disease.

The episode concludes by emphasising the importance of evidence-based treatment, informed owner discussions and regular clinical assessment, reinforcing that successful management relies on selecting the right therapy for each patient rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach.

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*For Veterinary / Animal Health Professionals Only*

Meet the Guest Speaker

 

Dr. Stephen Shaw

BVetMed CertSAD DVD PhD PgCAP FHEA MRCVS


Stephen is an RCVS Recognised Specialist in Veterinary Dermatology with over 25 years of experience in referral dermatology. His main areas of interest are allergy and ear disease. Stephen is passionate that these are treated early and effectively to prevent the chronic problems which can devastate a dog’s or cat’s happy life.

In Partnership With MSD Animal Health UK

Not yet using Numelvi®? Don’t get left behind! Numelvi® is the only second-generation JAK inhibitor, selective for relief of itch and inflammation in dogs. 

Selective  

  • At least 10X more selective for JAK1*¹, providing a favourable safety profile¹ and owner peace of mind  
  • The only JAK inhibitor licensed for dogs as young as 6 months of age¹  

Effective  

  • Starts relieving itch within 2–4 hours**, providing dogs and owners relief quickly  
  • Once-daily dosing from day 1¹, keeping it simple, reducing up-front costs and eliminating rebound itch 

To join over 1,000 practices across the UK using Numelvi® contact us at digital.team@msd.com.

* Over the other JAK enzymes in in vitro assays. 

** Based on a canine interleukin-31 induced pruritus model

References: 

  1. Numelvi® Summary of Product Characteristics 

Numelvi® (atinvicitinib) is a prescription medicine (POM-V) indicated for the treatment of pruritus associated with allergic dermatitis including atopic dermatitis, or for the treatment of clinical manifestations of atopic dermatitis, in dogs. Further information is available from the SPC, datasheet or package leaflet. 

Advice should be sought from the medicine prescriber. Prescription decisions are for the person issuing the prescription alone. Use Medicines Responsibly.