Piperacillin-tazobactam
Brands: Zosyn, Tazocin
Piperacillin-tazobactam is a potent antibiotic for treating serious bacterial infections in pets.
Used for
- skin infections
- respiratory infections
- intra-abdominal infections
How it is given
- Administration
- injection
- Frequency
- every 8 hours
- Duration
- 7-14 days
- Storage
- Store at room temperature, protect from light, do not freeze.
- Pregnancy safety
- caution
Always confirm the exact dose with your veterinarian before giving any medicine.
Typical dose ranges
cat
- Standard
- 50 mg/kg every 8 hours
dog
- Large dogs
- 100 mg/kg every 8 hours
- Small dogs
- 25-50 mg/kg every 8 hours
- Medium dogs
- 50-100 mg/kg every 8 hours
Ranges are reference only. Your vet sets the dose for your pet's weight and condition.
Active ingredients
- piperacillin
- tazobactam
Side effects
Common
- diarrhea
- nausea
Rare
- allergic reactions
Severe
- anaphylaxis
Do not use when
- penicillin allergy
- severe kidney disease
Interacts with
- probenecid
- anticoagulants
Warnings
- not for use in penicillin-allergic animals
- caution in renal impairment
Piperacillin-tazobactam questions
Can Piperacillin-tazobactam be used in pregnant pets?
Use with caution. Always consult your veterinarian.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Administer as soon as you remember, but skip if it’s close to the next dose.
How long does the treatment last?
Typically 7-14 days, depending on the infection.
Can it be used in conjunction with other antibiotics?
Only under veterinary guidance.
What are signs of an overdose?
Severe diarrhea, vomiting, or signs of an allergic reaction.
Full drug detail
Overview
Piperacillin-tazobactam is a powerful combination antibiotic used to treat a variety of serious bacterial infections in pets. It combines a broad-spectrum penicillin (piperacillin) with a beta-lactamase inhibitor (tazobactam) to enhance its effectiveness.
How It Works
Piperacillin works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to cell death. Tazobactam prevents the breakdown of piperacillin by beta-lactamase enzymes, extending its spectrum of activity.
Uses & Indications
Piperacillin-tazobactam is commonly used for treating:
- Severe skin infections
- Respiratory tract infections
- Intra-abdominal infections
Dosage Guidelines
Dosage must be prescribed by a veterinarian. Typical dosages are:
Dogs
- Small dogs: 25-50 mg/kg every 8 hours
- Medium dogs: 50-100 mg/kg every 8 hours
- Large dogs: 100 mg/kg every 8 hours
Cats
- Standard: 50 mg/kg every 8 hours
Administration
Piperacillin-tazobactam is administered via injection. The frequency is typically every 8 hours, depending on the severity of the infection and the veterinarian's advice.
Side Effects
Common
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
Rare
- Allergic reactions
Severe
- Anaphylaxis (requires immediate veterinary attention)
Precautions & Warnings
- Not for use in animals with a history of penicillin allergy.
- Use with caution in animals with kidney disease.
Drug Interactions
- Avoid using with probenecid as it can increase piperacillin levels.
- May interact with anticoagulants.
Storage
Store at room temperature and protect from light. Do not freeze.
FAQ
-
Can Piperacillin-tazobactam be used in pregnant pets?
- Use with caution. Always consult your veterinarian.
-
What should I do if I miss a dose?
- Administer as soon as you remember, but skip if it’s close to the next dose.
-
How long does the treatment last?
- Typically 7-14 days, depending on the infection.
-
Can it be used in conjunction with other antibiotics?
- Only under veterinary guidance.
-
What are signs of an overdose?
- Severe diarrhea, vomiting, or signs of an allergic reaction.
Conclusion
Always consult your veterinarian before using Piperacillin-tazobactam to ensure it's appropriate for your pet's condition and to receive the correct dosage instructions.