Ketoconazole represents an antifungal drug that can treat yeast infection in dogs, as well as other infections caused by fungi. This is achieved by preventing the wall of the fungal cell from forming. The development of the fungal organisms is thus stopped and the infection is treated.
Uses of Ketoconazole for Dogs
Besides yeast infections, Ketoconazole is also recommended in the treatment of the following health conditions:
- Blastomycosis
- Coccidoidomycosis
- Cryptococcosis
- Ringworm
- Toenail infections
The first three are considered very serious, as they affect the following organs:
- Bones
- Eyes
- Lungs
- Lymph nodes
- Skin
Ketoconazole, one of the drugs of choice for these infections, is available only by prescription, so it necessary to consult a veterinarian in order to obtain it. Even though it is approved by the FDA only for use in humans, Ketoconazole is often prescribed by the veterinarians as an off-label drug.
Availability and Administration of Ketoconazole for Dogs
The drug is available as tablets with a concentration of 200mg. The tablets are administered orally and the recommended dosage is 5 to 7mg per pound, given twice a day. In order to prevent irritations of the gastrointestinal tract, it is better to administer the drug with a meal.
It may be needed to follow the treatment for a few weeks, as fungal infections are not treated right away. More than that, the way the infection responds to the drug also influences the duration of the treatment. If any side effects appear, the dosage may be lowered, in order to decrease their severity. If a decreased dosage is no longer effective, an alternative drug may be recommended by the veterinarian.
Side Effects of Ketoconazole
Even though Ketoconazole is considered safe, especially when approved by a veterinarian, there may still be adverse reactions to it. Dogs that are known to be hypersensitive or even allergic to this drug should follow another treatment for the yeast infection. The following side effects occur in dogs more frequently:
- Changes in the hair coat
- Diarrhea
- Lack of appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting
However, in some situations, the drug may cause hepatitis. If besides the adverse reactions listed above you also notice jaundice, the veterinarian must be contacted immediately. Other serious side effects of Ketoconazole include eye problems such as cataracts. Depression and lethargy are considered adverse reactions to this drug, as it stops the secretion of several hormones, such as:
- Cortisone
- Other sex hormones
- Testosterone
Besides changes in the attitude, such hormonal changes may also cause reproduction problems. As some of the adverse reactions to this drug are very serious, it is very important to talk to a veterinarian as soon as they are noticed.
Contraindications and Interactions with Other Drugs
Pregnant dogs must not follow a treatment based on Ketoconazole, as the drug causes the death of the fetus. Apart from this, there are no other contraindications, with the mention that the side effects listed above can occur in any dog.
Interactions between Ketoconazole and other drugs are possible. Some of the types of drugs with which this yeast infection medicine can interact include:
- Antacids
- Anticonvulsants
- Cimetidine
- Cisapride
- Cyclosporine
- Heart medication
- Methylprednisolone
- Theophylline
Still, you need to keep in mind that there may be other drugs that can alter the effectiveness of Ketoconazole or that can lead to adverse reactions when combined. For an extensive list, it is best to ask a veterinarian.