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More Information Cephalexin is a broad spectrum antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections of the skin, urinary tract, respiratory tract, bones and joints. It is available as
250mg and 500mg capsules and as a liquid containing 250mg/5ml. When mixed with water the liquid should be kept in the refrigerator and any unused portion should be discarded after 14 days. The usual dose for dogs
and cats is 5-15mg/pound by mouth every 8 to 12 hours. (Sold per capsule).
Generic Name Cephalosporin's (sef-a-low-spore'-in)
Manufacturer Various
Brand Name(s)
First Generation cefazolin
cefazolin: Ancef (GlaxoSmithKline) and Kefzol (Lilly); cephalexin cefazolin cefazolin: Ancef (GlaxoSmithKline) and Kefzol (Lilly); cephalexin: Keflex (Dista); cefadroxil cefazolin cefazolin: Ancef
(GlaxoSmithKline) and Kefzol (Lilly); cephalexin cefazolin cefazolin: Ancef (GlaxoSmithKline) and Kefzol (Lilly); cephalexin: Keflex (Dista); cefadroxil: Cefa-Drops and Cefa-Tabs (Fort Dodge)
Second Generation cefaclor cefaclor: Ceclor (Lilly)
Third Generation ceftiofur ceftiofur: Naxcel (Pharmacia and Upjohn)
What is this medication used for Cephalosporin's
are broad spectrum bactericidal antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections of the skin, urinary tract, respiratory tract, bones and joints. Cefadroxil is the most commonly prescribed, FDA approved medication
used to treat dogs and cats. It is a commonly accepted practice by veterinarians, however, to use other forms of cephalosporin, such as cephalexin, which is not FDA approved for use in dogs and cats.
Availability Cephalosporin's
are prescription medications available as tablets, capsules, oral suspension and injectable.
How this medicine should be used The
usual dose of cefadroxil in dogs is 10mg/pound twice a day. The usual dose in cats is 10mg/pound once a day. It is not uncommon to use this medication for serious infections while a culture to determine the specific
antibiotic to use is being done. Consult your veterinarian for the dose of other drugs in this class for the specific condition being treated.
What are the side effects The
side effects when using cephalosporin's, which may include loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhea, are rare. Allergic reactions such as itching, rash and difficulty breathing may occur. Side effects in dogs may
also include drooling, rapid breathing and excitability. Fever and vomiting are additional side effects that may occur in cats.
What special precautions are there This medication should not be used in animals allergic to penicillin or cephalosporin's. Use with caution in pregnant and nursing animals. Use with caution in
animals when given with probenecid or aminoglycosides such as neomycin and gentamicin. Use with caution when given with other drugs that may affect the kidneys. Always tell your veterinarian and pharmacist what
other medications your pet is taking.
Overdose - what to do Contact
Laguna Hills Animal Hospital (949-837-7333) or, if after hours, Animal Urgent Care (949-364-6228).
How should I store this medication Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed. Store this medication at room temperature, away from excess heat, light and moisture. Do not
store in the bathroom. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
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