Zeniquin (marbofloxacin) - Pfizer is an antibiotic used for the treatment of susceptible bacterial skin, soft tissue and urinary tract infections (cystitis) in dogs and cats.
Marbofloxacin is a synthetic broad-spectrum antibacterial agent from the fluoroquinolone class of chemotherapeutic agents. The primary action of fluoroquinolones is to inhibit the bacterial enzyme, DNA gyrase. In susceptible organisms, fluoroquinolones are rapidly bactericidal at relatively low concentrations. Marbofloxacin is bactericidal against a broad range of gram-negative and gram-positive organisms.
Dosage and Administration: For oral use in dogs and cats only.
The recommended dosage for oral administration to dogs and cats is 1.25 mg marbofloxacin per lb of body weight once daily, but the dosage may be safely increased to 2.5 mg/lb.
For the treatment of skin and soft tissue infections, Zeniquin tablets should be given for 2-3 days beyond the cessation of clinical signs for a maximum of 30 days. For the treatment of urinary tract infections, Zeniquin tablets should be administered for at least 10 days. If no improvement is noted within 5 days, the diagnosis should be re-evaluated and a different course of therapy considered.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Compounds [e.g., sucralfate, antacids, and mineral supplements] containing divalent and trivalent cations [e.g., iron, aluminum, calcium, magnesium, and zinc] can interfere with the absorption of quinolones which may result in a decrease in product bioavailability. Therefore, the concomitant oral administration of quinolones with foods, supplements, or other preparations containing these compounds should be avoided.
CONTRAINDICATIONS: Marbofloxacin and other quinolones have been shown to cause arthropathy in immature animals of most species tested, the dog being particularly sensitive to this side effect. Marbofloxacin is contraindicated in immature dogs during the rapid growth phase [small and medium breeds up to 8 months of age, large breeds up to 12 months of age and giant breeds up to 18 months of age]. Marbofloxacin is contraindicated in cats under 12 months of age. Marbofloxacin is contraindicated in dogs and cats known to be hypersensitive to quinolones.
PRECAUTIONS: Quinolones should be used with caution in animals with known or suspected central nervous system [CNS] disorders. In such animals, quinolones have, in rare instances, been associated with CNS stimulation which may lead to convulsive seizures. Quinolones have been shown to produce erosions of cartilage of weight-bearing joints and other signs of arthropathy in immature animals of various species. The use of fluoroquinolones in cats has been reported to adversely affect the retina. Such products should be used with caution in cats. The safety of marbofloxacin in animals used for breeding purposes, pregnant, or lactating has not been demonstrated.
For use in animals only. Keep out of reach of children.
ADVERSE REACTIONS:
The following signs were reported in less than 1% of cases: increased thirst, soft stool/diarrhea, behavioral changes, shivering/shaking/tremors, and ataxia.
Additional information not available for this medicine.