Cefpodoxime Proxetil

What is Cefpodoxime Proxetil?

Cefpodoxime proxetil is an oral cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections of the skin, such as wounds and abscesses as well as bladder and respiratory infections in dogs and skin and soft tissue infections in cats. It does not treat viral or parasitic infections. Cefpodoxime proxetil is not FDA approved for use in veterinary medicine; however, it is a commonly accepted practice for veterinarians to prescribe this product for dogs and it may be useful in cats as well. Cefpodoxime proxetil requires a prescription from your veterinarian.

For:

Dogs & Cats

Benefits:

• Treats bacterial skin, bladder and respiratory infections in dogs
• Treats skin & soft tissue infections in cats
• Simple oral once-daily dosing
• Can be given with or without food
• Comes in a film-coated tablet for easy administration

How does cefpodoxime proxetil work?

Cefpodoxime proxetil is used to treat skin infections in dogs susceptible to certain bacteria strains as well as bladder and respiratory infections. It is also used to treat skin and soft tissue infections in cats. It is a cephalosporin antibiotic that treats bacterial infections by suppressing the growth of micro-organisms such as bacteria, fungi, or protozoa.

Cautions:

Contact your veterinarian in the event of an allergic reaction (such as, shortness of breath, hives, swelling, rash, fainting, vomiting, diarrhea, mucous or blood in the stool, unusual bleeding, or bruising). Also, do not give to animals who are hypersensitive to penicillin or cephalosporin.

Brand Name:

Vantin

Active ingredients:

Cefpodoxime proxetil

What is the most important thing I should know about cefpodoxime proxetil?

Cefpodoxime proxetil treats a range of infections, including those of the skin, bladder and respiratory system. Cefpodoxime proxetil requires a prescription from a veterinarian. The safety of cefpodoxime proxetil in dogs used for breeding, pregnant dogs, or lactating bitches has not been demonstrated. Safety for cats that are breeding, pregnant, or lactating also has not been demonstrated due to a lack of adequate studies. It may be used, however, if the prescribing veterinarian feels that the benefits outweigh the risks involved. As with other cephalosporins, cefpodoxime proxetil may occasionally induce a positive direct Coombs' test. Keep this and all drugs out of reach of children. Antimicrobial drugs, including penicillin and cephalosporins, can cause allergic reactions in sensitized individuals. To minimize the possibility of allergic reactions, those handling such antimicrobials, including cefpodoxime, are advised to avoid direct contact of the product with the skin and mucous membranes.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving cefpodoxime proxetil to my pet?

Tell your veterinarian if your pet is on aminoglycosides (gentamicin or neomycin), blood thinners, or probenicid.

How this product should cefpodoxime proxetil be given?

Cefpodoxime proxetil is an oral antibiotic. Follow the directions given by your veterinarian. Keep plenty of water available for your pet to drink. Give all the medication prescribed even if your pet seems to be fully recovered.

What are the potential side effects of cefpodoxime proxetil?

Stop administering and seek emergency veterinary medical care in the event of an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; hives; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; rash; or fainting), severe nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, mucus or blood in the stool, and unusual bleeding or bruising. Other, less serious side effects such as mild nausea, diarrhea, or yeast infection may be more likely to occur. Continue to give cefpodoxime proxetil and notify your veterinarian if these symptoms occur. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to your pet.

What happens if I miss giving a dose of cefpodoxime proxetil?

Give the dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and give the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not give your pet a double dose.

What happens if I overdose my pet on cefpodoxime proxetil?

Call your veterinarian immediately or take your pet to an emergency clinic. Signs of overdose may include vomiting, diarrhea, and/or jaundice.

What should I avoid while giving cefpodoxime proxetil?

Do not administer at the same time as giving antacids such as Maalox or other stomach acid reducers such as Tagamet.

What other drugs will affect cefpodoxime proxetil?

Consult your veterinarian if your pet is currently on any other medications, as drug interactions could occur. Use with caution if your pet is on aminoglycosides (gentamicin or neomycin), blood thinners, or probenicid.