Metronidazole (also known as Flagyl) is used primarily as an anti-diarrheal medication for dogs and cats. It is effective against certain protozoal infections including Giardia, Trichomonas, and Balantidium coli as well as anaerobic bacterial pathogens. Metronidazole may also be prescribed to relieve inflammation of the intestinal tract. Because the drug can penetrate the blood-brain barrier and bone, it is sometimes used to treat infections of the central nervous system, bones, and teeth. Metronidazole’s mechanism of action is not fully understood. It may disrupt the ability of some microorganisms to make new genetic material. Its anti-inflammatory action within the gastrointestinal tract may be related to suppression of some parts of the immune system. Keep the oral, liquid form of metronidazole refrigerated and shake well before use. Tablets and capsules are to be kept in a tightly sealed container at room temperature and protected from heat and light. The dosage for metronidazole in dogs and cats varies depending on its intended use and the specifics of a patient’s case. A dose range of between 5 and 25 mg/lb given by mouth is typical. Higher doses may be given once daily, while lower doses are generally given twice daily. Always follow the specific dosing instructions provided on the label of your pet’s medication and contact your veterinarian with any questions or concerns. 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. Because metronidazole crosses the blood-brain barrier, neurologic side effects are possible with the use of this drug. Typically these occur when pets ingest more than the recommended dose or when they are on long-term therapy, particularly if they are debilitated or suffer from liver dysfunction. Signs of neurologic side effects from metronidazole include: Other possible side effects of metronidazole use in dogs and cats include: USE CAUTION WHEN ADMINISTERING THIS DRUG TO DEBILITATED PETS OR INDIVIDUALS WITH LIVER DISEASEWhat Is Metronidazole?
How Metronidazole Works
Storage Information
Metronidazole Dosage for Dogs and Cats
What to Do If You Miss a Dose of Metronidazole
Side Effects of Metronidazole
Drugs That React with Metronidazole
DO NOT GIVE METRONIDAZOLE TO PREGNANT OR LACTATING PETS
Veterinarian getting ready to feed a dog a pill
(Picture Credit: Getty Images)
Metronidazole is an antibiotic prescribed by veterinarians for dogs to treat diarrhea, inflammation of the large intestine, and other bacterial and parasitic infections such as Giardia. Some also refer to it by the brand name Flagyl.
The FDA has not approved this drug for use in canines, but a licensed veterinarian can safely prescribe it. The drug works by disrupting the creation of DNA in bacteria and only treats infections of anaerobic pathogens, though vets often use it with other antibiotics to cover other sources of infections.
Follow the instructions of your veterinarian strictly when giving any medication to your dog. You can easily order metronidazole online from Chewy’s pharmacy with your vet’s prescription.
Here’s what you should know about the uses, dosage, and side effects of metronidazole in dogs.
Uses Of Metronidazole For Dogs
(Picture Credit: Getty Images)
As mentioned before, metronidazole is used to treat conditions such as diarrhea and inflammation of the lower intestine when certain parasitic or bacterial infections are the cause. These include Giardia, Trichomonas, and Balantidium coli.
Veterinarians can also use it to treat Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBS), sepsis, oral or dental infections, bone infections, or internal abscesses.
The drug is able to cross the blood-brain barrier, which makes it useful in treating central nervous system infections, as well.
Dosage Of Metronidazole For Dogs
(Picture Credit: Getty Images)
The following is only a guideline and must not replace your vet’s advice. You should always rely on your veterinarian to give you the proper dosage for your dog.
The usual dosage of metronidazole for dogs depends on which condition is being treated.
In the case of Giardia, vets often prescribe 7 to 11 mg per pound given once every 24 hours, but the dosage can go as high as 29.5 mg per pound. If your dog has an infection from anaerobic bacteria, then you might expect your vet to prescribe 11 to 22 mg per pound to be given twice a day.
Metronidazole tablets typically come in doses of 250 to 500 mg per pill. Your vet can give you advice on how to properly measure the dose for your dog.
These pills have an extended release for humans. However, dogs have shorter digestive tracts and may only partially digest the medication before passing it. Again, follow the instructions of your vet for administering it.
In some cases of sepsis or if a dog has a blocked airway, a vet may inject the drug.
Risks And Side Effects Of Metronidazole For Dogs
(Picture Credit: Getty Images)
Side effects of metronidazole in dogs are rare, and the drug is considered to be quite safe when administered properly.
Pregnant dogs and puppies, as well as dogs who have a history of liver or kidney disease, suffer from neutropenia, or have seizure disorders should not take this drug if it’s avoidable. Make your vet aware of these conditions and any other medications your dog may be on.
Though the side effects are rare, long-term exposure heightens the risk.
Common side effects of metronidazole in dogs include the following:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Gagging or reguritation
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy or fatigue
- Blood or darkening of urine
- Fever
Some rare, more serious side effects that usually only occur with long-term use include low blood platelet count, liver damage, insomnia, or neurological conditions related to toxicity.
Neurological symptoms might include seizures, staggering, stiffness, or strange movements and behavior. If you notice these symptoms, contact your vet right away.
With nearly all medications, there is a risk of allergic reaction that can lead to anaphylaxis, a potentially fatal condition. If you see signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling, difficulty breathing, or closing of the throat, get to an emergency vet immediately.
Have you ever treated your dog with metronidazole? Did you see results? Let us know in the comments below!
Categories: Dog Health
Tags: cover paneldiarrheaevergreengiardiamedicationmetronidazole