Metronidazole

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General Description

Metronidazole is commonly used as an anti-diarrheal medication that treat inflammation of the large intestine. It is also effective against certain protozoal and bacterial infections such as Giardia, Trichomonas and Balantidium coli. It is effective against only anaerobic pathogens, but is safe to use in conjunction with many other antibiotics for mixed infections.

Metronidazole is able to treat central nervous system infections that most other drugs cannot treat by penetrating the blood-brain barrier. It is also particularly effective against infections of the bone and teeth.

Give this medication with food, as this will increase absorption.

How It Works

Most healthy parts of your pet’s body requires good circulation and oxygen to thrive. Abscesses and damages tissue, however, typically has poor oxygen circulation. Only certain pathogens that can survive without oxygen can thrive in these areas. Metronidazole inhibits certain repair enzymes in cells that exist in these unoxygenated (or anaerobic) environments.

Storage Information

Keep liquid form of medication refrigerated and shake well before use. All other forms are to be kept in a tightly sealed container at room temperature and protected from heat or light.

Missed Dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give your pet two doses at once.

Side Effects and Drug Reactions

Metronidazole may result in these side effects:

• Allergic reaction (labored breathing, hives, etc)
• Drooling
• Gagging
• Regurgitation
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Blood in the urine, or dark urine

Metronidazole may react with these drugs:

• Cimitidine
• Sedatives
• Anticoagulants
• Phenytoin
• Phenobarbital (reduces the effect of Metronidazole)

 
DO NOT GIVE METRONIDAZOLE TO PREGNANT OR LACTATING PETS

DO NOT GIVE TO YOUNG PUPPIES OR KITTENS

USE CAUTION WHEN ADMINISTERING THIS DRUG TO PETS WITH KIDNEY OR LIVER DISEASE