Veterinarians use metronidazole as an off-label medication since it is not FDA-approved for dogs. Metronidazole is commonly prescribed to treat infections that cause diarrhea. It is also sometimes used to treat dental infections and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Will metronidazole hurt my dog?
The chance of metronidazole toxicity may be low, but it is possible that it could affect your dog in a bad way. There are serious implications with metronidazole, such as neurological injury and hepatotoxicity (liver damage).
Why is metronidazole prescribed for dogs?
It is often used to treat diarrhea and other intestinal problems. The use of metronidazole to treat Giardia infections and most other infections in dogs and cats is off label or extra-label. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off label use in veterinary medicine.
How long can a dog take metronidazole?
The average length of recovery is from 12 to 16 days and, in some cases, it might be as long as 3 weeks. As they recover, feed your pooch something bland, simple, and nutritious.
How does metronidazole stop diarrhea in dogs?
Many veterinarians prescribe metronidazole, a nitroimidazole antibiotic, for the treatment of acute diarrhea in dogs. 1, 10, 13 It has a broad spectrum of activity against anaerobic bacteria including potential enteric pathogens such as Clostridium perfringens, and antiprotozoal activity is observed at higher dosages.
Is there an alternative to metronidazole for dogs?
Rifaximin is an effective alternative to metronidazole for the treatment of chronic enteropathy in dogs: a randomised trial.
What if metronidazole doesn’t work for my dog?
Metronidazole can be given long term if needed for pets with chronic colitis. If a pet doesn’t tolerate metronidazole we can substitute something else. It usually takes 10-14 days of medication to completely clear a typical infection and sometimes longer.
When should you give your dog metronidazole?
Metronidazole (Flagyl) is a popular antibiotic a vet may prescribe for a dog to treat diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease, or gum disease. The most common side effect of metronidazole is diarrhea, even though it can be prescribed to treat diarrhea.
What are the most common side effects of metronidazole?
The most common side effects of metronidazole tablets, liquid, suppositories or vaginal gel are feeling or being sick, diarrhoea, and a slight metallic taste in your mouth. Do not drink alcohol while taking a course of metronidazole tablets, liquid, suppositories or vaginal gel, or for 2 days after finishing treatment.
Can a dog recover from metronidazole toxicity?
Most dogs affected with metronidazole neurotoxicity recover within one to two weeks of drug withdrawal.
How much metronidazole should I give my dog?
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.
Can a dog overdose on metronidazole?
Dogs and cats: Symptoms of overdose of metronidazole include the gastrointestinal signs (anorexia, vomiting) and neurologic signs including depression, ataxia, disorientation, head tilt, tremors, bradycardia, rigidity, stiffness, and seizures.