Metronidazole Prescriptions for Small Animals & Other Pets

Metronidazole is for multiple species including cats and dogs.

• Single ingredient prescription antibiotic for multiple species

• Metronidazole treats certain bacterial and protozoal infections

• Metronidazole tablets are available in two strengths for more accurate dosing

Metronidazole is an antiprotozoal agent and antibacterial used to treat diarrheal diseases, certain bacterial infections, protozoal infections, such as Giardiasis, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Metronidazole kills susceptible bacteria and certain protozoa. It is believed to affect DNA synthesis in the organism.

Metronidazole is a generic.

Metronidazole is given by mouth. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian. This medication should only be given to the pet for whom it was prescribed.

Many of the conditions that require treatment with Metronidazole may require long-term treatment, in the order of multiple weeks.

Tablet.

Metronidazole

Talk to your veterinarian about what type of outcome is expected. Have your veterinarian explain the other treatment options that may be available to treat your pet's condition.

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has liver disease or may be pregnant or used for breeding.

Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your pet is taking. Also if your pet has had any reactions to previous medications.

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.

Metronidazole may need to be given for extended periods of time to achieve satisfactory results. Notify your veterinarian if your pet has incoordination, depression, a head tilt, disorientation, seizures, or other neurological signs while taking Metronidazole.

Metronidazole has an unpleasant taste; contact your veterinarian if you have difficulty giving the medication.

Not for use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to the drug or its derivatives. Not for use in pregnant, or lactating animals (female animals nursing their young) unless benefits outweigh the risks. Use with extreme caution in debilitated animals or those with liver disease.

If the pill has prolonged contact with the mouth or is crushed or chewed, it may cause excessive salivation and pawing at the mouth. Side effects include nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weakness, blood in the urine, head tilt, and stumbling. It may also cause liver disease, which can result in yellowing of the gums, skin, and eyes. Contact your veterinarian if you observe any of these effects.

Store in a tight, light-resistant, childproof container at room temperature. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, contact your veterinarian immediately. Signs of an overdose would be similar to the side effects listed above, plus stiffness, seizures and disorientation.

Consult your veterinarian before using Metronidazole with any other medications including vitamins and supplements, oral anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), cimetidine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, sedatives or tranquilizers since interactions may occur.