Itraconazole is a type of medicine that is useful in eliminating the canine disease known as sporotrichosis. Sporotrichosis is an infection that is caused by a relatively common fungus. However, the disease itself is very uncommon. It occurs when spores of the fungus in question are able to enter the dog's body by way of a cut, an open sore or some other direct path into the bloodstream. It can result in dangerous fungal infections of the internal organs, although it more commonly results in bumps and nodules on the face, ears and other parts of the body and which tend to ooze a pus-like substance. Here's how itraconazole can help to eliminate this fungal infection.
Itraconazole Overview
Itraconazole is a drug that is classified as an antifungal. Antifungal medicines are those that stop the growth of fungal spores through a process of destroying the fungus cell wall. This ensures that the fungus cannot reproduce. There are a number of different antifungal drugs with similar properties, but itraconazole is perhaps best known for its use with sporotrichosis. It has a limited range of use, as it's only effective when combating either yeast or fungal organisms and cells. It does have a number of different applications when it comes to fighting fungal infections, however.
Itraconazole is a human formulated drug. It can legally be prescribed by a veterinarian for use with your dog, but this use is "extra-label" in nature. Extra-label use means that the drug is being used with permission from the FDA for a function that it isn't specifically approved by the FDA for. Itraconazole is also known by the brand name Sproanox.
Treating Your Pet with Itraconazole
Itraconazole is supplied via oral capsules. These capsules can be given to your dog along with a treat or broken up and included with your pet's food when he eats. The exact dosage that your pet will require is based primarily upon the dog's size, but it may also be affected by weight, age, prior health conditions, gender and the severity of the fungal infection.
Itraconazole Side Effects
There are a few side effects of itraconazole that are important to keep in mind. It typically causes these side effects:
- Diarrhea
- Vomitting
- Loss of appetite
Itraconazole has a milder range of side effects than many other antifungal drugs that are used in dogs, so it's preferable to those other drugs for this reason. However, it may also affect the liver in potentially dangerous ways. This can lead to jaundice, dehydration and more. If you notice any other symptoms, take your dog to the vet as quickly as possible for a full examination.
For more information about sporotrichosis and how to treat it, consult with a vet. This condition is easily manageable with proper medicines like itraconazole and other antifungals.