Metronidazole is an antibiotic commonly used to treat protozoal and anaerobic bacterial infections, especially of the bowel. Metronidazole also has an anti-inflammatory effect on the GI tract.
Metronidazole is bactericidal and act to disrupt the DNA of bacteria. It is absorbed rapidly from the GI tract, metabolized by the liver and excreted in the urine and the feces. Because Metronidazole has activity only against anaerobic bacteria, it is used commonly with other antibiotics when it is used to treat mixed-bacterial infections.
Metronidazole is effective against protozoal infections in dogs and cats including Giardia, Entamoeba, Trichomonas and Balantidium.
Conditions where Metronidazole may benefit:
Adverse Effects
Most severe adverse effect is dose-related CNS toxicity. High doses have caused lethargy, CNS depression, ataxia, vomiting, and weakness. Metronidazole may be mutagenic.
Contraindications, Precautions, and Drug Interactions
Fetal abnormalities have not been demonstrated in animals with recommended doses, but use with caution during pregnancy.
Instructions for Use
Maximum dose that should be administered is 50-65 mg/kg, every 24 hours, in any species. Tablets have been broken or crushed for oral administration to cats; however, cats find these unpalatable.
Additional information not available for this medicine.