Cefpodoxime is a type of antibiotic that belongs to a class of drugs known as cephalosporins. This medication effectively kills different types of bacteria that exist in the dog’s body. Although it doesn’t have any effect on worms or other parasitic infections, it treats skin infections, deep bruises and wounds, infections of the bone and the urinary tract.
How Cefpodoxime Works
The medication kills susceptible gram positive and gram negative bacteria. It eliminates fungal infections, bacterial infections and certain infections caused by protozoa. Although it’s not specifically formulated for use in dogs, it’s prescribed by vets to get rid of infections like Staphlyococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Since it’s a prescription medication, it has to be administered exactly according to the vet’s instructions.
The only FDA approved drug that contains Cefpodoxime is Simplicef. It contains the active ingredient Cefpodoxime proxetil and it’s available as 100 mg and 200 mg tablets.
Administration of Simplicef for Dogs
Simplicef is generally prescribed as a course. You must make sure you give your pet the entire course so that your dog recovers completely. As a general guideline you may have to give your dog 2.3 to 4.5 mg of the drug, per pound of body weight. You will have to administer the medication only once a day with food. You should also give your pet plenty of fresh water to drink, after he ingests the tablet.
Since your pet relies on you for his medical needs, you must make sure that you administer the medication on time. If you forget to administer the dose on time, skip the dose but avoid overdosing your pet.
Symptoms of Overdose Include:
- Nausea
- Cramps in the abdomen
- Watery stools
- Skin reactions
Precautions You Must Keep in Mind
Simplicef may not agree with all pets. Dogs that are sensitive to this drug may suffer from swelling of the lips and face, difficulty breathing, and hives on the skin. You should also keep the vet informed about any other cephalosporin drugs your pet has been allergic to in the past. If your dog develops side effects like nausea, diarrhea or yeast infections, conduct a follow up vet check as soon as possible.
Drugs that Interact with Simplicef
Drug interactions can cause other side effects that may be very harmful to your pet’s body. Antibiotic medications and loop diuretics are the two most common types of drugs that interact with Simplicef. Other medications may also interact with the active ingredient Cefpodoxime. You must thus tell the vet about all other medications you’re giving your dog.
If your pet suffers from frequent bacterial infections, you will have to take other precautionary measures to protect your dog’s life. Herbal remedies are better alternatives to antibiotics because they don’t cause as many side effects. You should also consider giving your pet vitamins or supplements that strengthen the immune system and help fight off bacterial infections.