Pradofloxacin
Also known as: Veraflox
Pradofloxacin is a strong antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections. * **Administration:** Can usually be given with or without food. If using the liquid suspension, shake well before use. * **Interactions:** Do not give at the same time as dairy products, antacids, or supplements containing calcium, iron, zinc, or magnesium. Separate these by at least 2 hours. * **Completion:** Always finish the entire prescription, even if your pet seems better, to prevent resistant bacteria from developing. * **Side Effects:** Watch for mild stomach upset (vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite). Contact your vet if these occur or if you notice any unusual behavior, tremors, or difficulty walking.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Susceptible bacterial infections
- Susceptible bacterial infections
- Susceptible bacterial infections
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Mild gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia)
Cautions & contraindications
- Pregnant or lactating animals
- Dogs < 12 months of age (< 18 months for giant breeds)
- Cats < 6 weeks of age
- Animals with persistent cartilage lesions
- Dogs or cats with neurological disease (especially epilepsy)
- > **Cartilage Toxicity:** Do not use in growing animals (dogs <12 months, giant breeds <18 months, cats <6 weeks) due to the risk of arthropathy and cartilage lesions. > **Neurological Risk:** Do not use in patients with a history of seizures or central nervous system disorders, as fluoroquinolones can lower the seizure threshold. > **Antimicrobial Stewardship:** Use should be based on culture and susceptibility testing to prevent the development of multidrug-resistant bacteria.
Drug interactions
- Antacids (Mg2+, Al3+): Binds fluoroquinolones, preventing absorption from the GI tract
- Sucralfate: Inhibits absorption; separate dosing by at least 2 hours
- Zinc salts: Inhibits absorption; separate dosing by at least 2 hours
- Theophylline: Increases plasma theophylline concentrations
- Cimetidine: May reduce the clearance of fluoroquinolones
- Ciclosporin: May decrease metabolism and increase nephrotoxicity; concurrent use best avoided
- Tacrolimus: May decrease metabolism and increase nephrotoxicity; concurrent use best avoided
- Oral anticoagulants: May increase the action of orally administered anticoagulants
Frequently asked questions
What is Pradofloxacin used for in pets?
Pradofloxacin is a strong antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections. * **Administration:** Can usually be given with or without food. If using the liquid suspension, shake well before use. * **Interactions:** Do not give at the same time as dairy products, antacids, or supplements containing calcium, iron, zinc, or magnesium. Separate these by at least 2 hours. * **Completion:** Always finish the entire prescription, even if your pet seems better, to prevent resistant bacteria from developing. * **Side Effects:** Watch for mild stomach upset (vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite). Contact your vet if these occur or if you notice any unusual behavior, tremors, or difficulty walking.
Is Pradofloxacin safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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