Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole
Brands: Bactrim, Septra
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is a combination antibiotic used to treat infections in pets.
Used for
- respiratory infections
- urinary tract infections
- skin infections
How it is given
- Administration
- oral
- Frequency
- twice daily
- Duration
- 7 to 14 days
- Storage
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight.
- Pregnancy safety
- caution
Always confirm the exact dose with your veterinarian before giving any medicine.
Typical dose ranges
cat
- Standard
- 13 mg/lb (30 mg/kg) every 12 hours
dog
- Large dogs
- 13 mg/lb (30 mg/kg) every 12 hours
- Small dogs
- 13 mg/lb (30 mg/kg) every 12 hours
- Medium dogs
- 13 mg/lb (30 mg/kg) every 12 hours
Ranges are reference only. Your vet sets the dose for your pet's weight and condition.
Active ingredients
- Trimethoprim
- Sulfamethoxazole
Side effects
Common
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
Rare
- joint pain
Severe
- allergic reactions
Do not use when
- severe liver disease
- kidney disease
Interacts with
- certain diuretics
- other sulfonamides
Warnings
- ensure adequate hydration
- monitor for allergic reactions
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole questions
What if I miss a dose?
Administer the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it's close to the next dose.
Can this be used for all pets?
Consult your veterinarian as it may not be suitable for pets with certain health conditions.
What are signs of an overdose?
Symptoms may include vomiting and diarrhea; contact your vet immediately.
Can pregnant pets take this medication?
Use with caution and under strict veterinary guidance.
What should I do in case of an allergic reaction?
Seek immediate veterinary assistance.
Full drug detail
Overview
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is a combination antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections in dogs and cats. It is essential to follow the veterinarian's guidance when administering this medication.
How It Works
This antibiotic works by inhibiting the production of folic acid in bacteria, which is necessary for their growth and replication, effectively stopping the infection.
Uses & Indications
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is commonly used to treat respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal infections, and skin infections in pets.
Dosage Guidelines
Dogs
- Small Dogs: 13 mg/lb (30 mg/kg) every 12 hours
- Medium Dogs: 13 mg/lb (30 mg/kg) every 12 hours
- Large Dogs: 13 mg/lb (30 mg/kg) every 12 hours
Cats
- Standard: 13 mg/lb (30 mg/kg) every 12 hours
Administration
This medication is administered orally in tablet or liquid form.
Frequency
Typically given twice daily.
Duration
The treatment duration varies based on the condition and response to the medication, usually ranging from 7 to 14 days.
Side Effects
Common
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
Rare
- Joint pain
Severe
- Allergic reactions (swelling, difficulty breathing)
Precautions & Warnings
- Monitor for signs of allergic reactions.
- Ensure adequate hydration.
Drug Interactions
- May interact with other sulfonamides and certain diuretics.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and sunlight.
FAQ
- What if I miss a dose? Administer the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it's close to the next dose.
- Can this be used for all pets? Consult your veterinarian as it may not be suitable for pets with certain health conditions.
- What are signs of an overdose? Symptoms may include vomiting and diarrhea; contact your vet immediately.
- Can pregnant pets take this medication? Use with caution and under strict veterinary guidance.
- What should I do in case of an allergic reaction? Seek immediate veterinary assistance.