Metronidazole (Flagyl) (Manufacturer may vary)

Metronidazole is an antibiotic and antiprotozoal medication used to treat various conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, nonspecific diarrheal disorders, infections caused by Giardia (a cause of diarrhea), and periodontal disease.

Benefits

Treats a wide array of ailments

An antibiotic that effectively treats inflammatory bowel disease

Remedies certain diarrheal disorders

Treats infections caused by Giardia (intestinal parasite)

Also treats periodontal disease

How it works

Metronidazole is especially effective against anaerobic infections - bacteria that can live without oxygen. It's able to penetrate bone, making it especially useful in oral/dental infections. In addition, it has anti-inflammatory properties in the large intestine and is an effective anti-diarrhea medication for certain diseases.

Dosage and Administration: Give metronidazole exactly as it is prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not give in larger amounts or use it for longer than recommended by your veterinarian. Follow the instructions on the prescription label. If you do not understand these directions speak to your pharmacist or veterinarian. Your veterinarian may want to perform blood tests on a regular basis to make sure the medication is not causing harmful effects. Store metronidazole at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Metronidazole is a prescription antibiotic used in dogs and cats to treat various conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, nonspecific diarrhea disorders, infections caused by Giardia, and periodontal disease.

Metronidazole is not FDA-approved for use in veterinary medicine; however, it is a commonly accepted practice for veterinarians to prescribe this medication for dogs and cats.

The actual dose and duration of treatment with metronidazole depends on the specific condition being treated.

Tip

Metronidazole should be given to your pet for the entire length of time prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not give in larger amounts or use it for longer than recommended by your veterinarian.

Pet	Weight	Dosage
Dogs:	All weights	The usual dose is 3mg-23mg/pound of your pet’s body weight, by mouth, 1 to 4 times a day
Cats:	All weights	The usual dose 5mg-23mg/pound of your pet’s body weight, by mouth, 1 to 2 times a day
Horses:	X	X

Storage

Store metronidazole at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss giving a dose: Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and give the next one as directed. Do not give a double dose of the medication.

What happens if I overdose the pet: Seek emergency veterinary medical attention if you think you have given your pet too much of this medication. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination, or seizures.

Possible side effects of Metronidazole: Seek emergency veterinary medical attention if your pet experiences any signs of an allergic reaction (hives; difficulty breathing; or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat). Call your veterinarian at once if any of the following serious side effects occur: seizures; fever; chills; sores inside the mouth or on the lips; or watery or bloody diarrhea. Keep giving metronidazole and talk to your veterinarian if your pet develops any of these less serious side effects: nausea; diarrhea; dizziness; loss of balance; dry mouth; cough; sneezing; runny nose; or swollen tongue. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome to your pet.

What should I avoid while giving Metronidazole: Antibiotic medications can cause diarrhea, which may be the sign of a new infection. If your pet has diarrhea that is watery or has blood in it, call your veterinarian. Do not use any medication to stop the diarrhea unless your veterinarian tells you to do so.

What other medications will affect Metronidazole: Tell your veterinarian if your pet is using any of the following medications: cimetidine (Tagamet), phenytoin (Dilantin), Phenobarbital, or warfarin (Coumadin). There may be other drugs not listed that can affect metronidazole. Tell your veterinarian about all prescription and non-prescription (OTC) medications, including vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other veterinarians. Do not start using a new medication without telling your veterinarian.

Cautions

Antibiotic medications can cause diarrhea, which may be the sign of a new infection. If your pet has diarrhea that is watery or has blood in it, contact your veterinarian. Do not use any medication to stop the diarrhea unless instructed by your veterinarian.