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Most canine house owners will sadly must cope with their canine affected by diarrhea or gastrointestinal points sooner or later of their life.
If that happens, their veterinarian is prone to prescribe them metronidazole (additionally identified by its model identify Flagyl).
Not solely can metronidazole alleviate diarrhea attributable to bacterial infections and cut back gastrointestinal points, the cost of the treatment is usually lined by pet insurance coverage.
Similar to make use of in individuals, antibiotics are a strong alternative in treating bacterial infections, however they will additionally include uncomfortable side effects.
Here is a have a look at metronidazole for dogs and whether or not it’s protected to offer to your canine.
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What Is Metronidazole Used for in Dogs?
Metronidazole is an antibiotic and antiprotozoal drug that’s used to deal with Giardia, anaerobic bacterial infections, and acute diarrhea.
Similar to many medicines utilized in veterinary treatment, metronidazole was initially accredited by the FDA to be used in people to deal with bacterial infections. It is now used off-label by veterinarians.
Metronidazole was beforehand believed to be efficient as an anti-inflammatory treatment for the intestine, says Dr. Primrose Moss, a veterinary surgeon at Avonvale Veterinary Centres within the United Kingdom.
“However, there is very limited evidence of this and it is no longer commonly used for this purpose due to concerns about its impact on the gut biome and rising antimicrobial resistance,” Moss wrote in an electronic mail to Forbes Advisor.
Is Metronidazole (Flagyl) Safe To Give to Dogs?
Metronidazole is a generally used treatment for dogs and is comparatively protected and efficient when used correctly underneath the steering of a veterinarian.
“Metronidazole is effective against a wide range of bacteria, is relatively inexpensive, and is usually well tolerated by dogs,” says Dr. Maria Botinas, D.V.M., space medical director in Florida of IndeVets, a nationwide veterinary staffing service.
However, with the rise of antimicrobial resistance, many veterinarians are transferring away from utilizing metronidazole “as a first line treatment for diarrhea in an attempt to preserve its efficacy against more serious pathogens,” says Dr. Julie Sanders D.V.M., veterinarian and director of operations for Heart + Paw, a sequence of veterinary amenities on the East Coast.
When Owners Can Give Metronidazole to Dogs
Given the priority round over-use and antimicrobial resistance, it’s vital that metronidazole is used solely as directed by your veterinarian.
When used as an antibiotic, metronidazole can deal with bacterial infections, particularly gastrointestinal infections, Moss says. It may additionally be used to deal with protozoal infections like Giardia, if different medicines like fenbendazole have failed, she provides.
Owners which have old prescription bottles of metronidazole in the home shouldn’t give them to their canine, Sanders says.
“Expired drugs can be ineffective or unsafe,” she says. “The use of less potent formulations can also contribute to antimicrobial resistance.”
Proper disposal is essential, particularly in terms of old antibiotics like metronidazole. Sanders cautions in opposition to throwing old medicines within the trash or down the bathroom, each of which might contribute to total drug resistance since decrease concentrations of the drug can find yourself again within the atmosphere.
The Department of Justice hosts National Prescription Drug Take Back Days a few instances a yr. You can seek for a pharmaceutical disposal location on its web site.
When Owners Shouldn’t Give Metronidazole to Dogs
Metronidazole shouldn’t be used together with the next:
- Dogs with liver points or dysfunction
- Dogs which might be pregnant or nursing
- Dogs which might be allergic to the treatment
- Dogs taking treatment that include calcineurin inhibitors comparable to tacrolimus and cyclosporine (that are pretty frequent in veterinary medication)
- Metronidazole shouldn’t be mixed with cimetidine (Tagamet)
Dog house owners ought to all the time talk about any and all medicines and dietary supplements that they’re giving their canine to make sure no unfavourable results from metronidazole.
What Is a Safe Metronidazole Dosage for Dogs?
A protected dosage of metronidazole will rely upon a number of elements, together with the canine’s weight and medical historical past.
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, metronidazole dosage relies on what it’s getting used to deal with;t for example,, the dosage to deal with Giardia is 25 mg/kg each 12 hours for 5 days.
The only and protected dosage shall be decided by your veterinarian.
Can Dogs Overdose on Metronidazole?
Dogs can completely overdose on metronidazole.
“The difference between the high end of the therapeutic range and the toxic range [of metronidazole] is relatively small. The risk of overdosing and toxicity is real,” Sanders says.
Can I Give My Dog Metronidazole Every Day?
Metronidazole is often given each 8 to 12 hours for a number of days or perhaps weeks.
“The duration of treatment time is dependent on the underlying disease being treated,” Sanders says.
Metronidazole isn’t supposed for use as a day by day upkeep drug for many pets, as it may have an antagonistic impact on intestine microflora.
Other Medicine Dosage and Uses For Dogs:
Metronidazole Side Effects for Dogs
Dogs which might be given metronidazole often expertise an enchancment to their signs and in total well being.
According to the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, “Metronidazole can cross the blood-brain barrier, so at high doses it can sometimes cause neurological symptoms.” Those uncomfortable side effects usually go away as soon as the remedy is discontinued.
Potential unfavourable uncomfortable side effects from metronidazole embody the next:
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Loss of urge for food
- Lethargy
- Depression
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Acute bone marrow necrosis
- Low white blood cell counts
- Overgrowth of yeast within the gastrointestinal tract
- Neurological signs, together with stumbling, scuffing limbs, seizure-like exercise, weak spot, tremors
“If you notice side effects after starting treatment…it’s worth speaking with your vet before giving further doses as they may recommend switching medication—especially if you’ve noticed a neurological problem,” Moss says.
Moss provides that it’s vital to debate any issues along with your vet earlier than beginning the treatment, together with any pre-existing treatment situations or a historical past of seizures.
How Long Does It Take for Metronidazole To Start Working?
Metronidazole often begins working inside just a few days, however it may rely fully on the individual case.
For critical infections, it may take 48 to 72 hours to see a change within the canine’s signs.
“It’s important to remember that even if your dog seems to be back to normal within a few days, some bacteria may linger and potentially cause a relapse if the course of metronidazole isn’t finished,” Moss says.
How Long Does Metronidazole Stay in a Dog’s System?
In an in any other case wholesome canine, metronidazole often stays of their system for about 24-36 hours.
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Bottom Line
Under the care and supervision of your veterinarian, metronidazole is a protected and efficient drug for treating bacterial infections.
Since it’s solely available by way of prescription, it’s vital you go to your veterinarian who will take into account your canine’s full medical historical past and decide whether or not metronidazole is an acceptable remedy on your canine.
