Metronidazole
Antibacterial and antiprotozoal drugs. Its action is specific for anaerobic bacteria
and protozoa. Resistance is rare. Metronidazole oral absorption is nearly complete in animals. Metronidazole benzoate is formulated for cats to improve palatability. the half-life of 5 hours.
Indications and Clinical Uses
Metronidazole is indicated to treat diarrhea and other intestinal problems caused by intestinal protozoa such as Giardia, Trichomonas, and Entamoeba.
Instructions for Use
The maximum dose that should be administered is 50-65 mg/kg per day in any species. Metronidazole is unpalatable and can produce a metallic taste.
Small Animal Dosage
Dogs
• Anaerobes: 15 mg/kg q12h or 12 mg/kg q8h PO.
• Giardia: 12-15 mg/kg q12h for 8 days PO.
Cats
• Anaerobes: 10-25 mg/kg q24h PO.
• Giardia: 17 mg/kg (one-third tablet per cat) q24h for 8 days.
Large Animal Dosage
Cattle
• Treatment of trichomoniasis (bulls): 75 mg/kg q12h IV for three doses.
Furazolidone
Furazolidone is an oral antiprotozoal drug with activity against Giardia, and it may have some activity against bacteria in the intestine. It is used for only local treatment of intestinal parasites; it is not used for systemic therapy.
Small Animal Dosage
• 4 mg/kg q12h for 7-10 days PO.
Loperamide
Pharmacology and Mechanism of Action
Opiate agonist. It decreases propulsive intestinal contractions and increases an overall constipating effect. It also increases the tone of GI sphincters.
Indications and Clinical Uses
Loperamide is used for symptomatic treatment of acute nonspecific diarrhea. It has been administered orally to dogs and cats. Long-term use is discouraged because it may lead to constipation.
Adverse Reactions and Side Effects
In these susceptible animals, loperamide will cross the blood–brain barrier and cause profound sedation.
Small Animal Dosage
Dogs
• 0.1 mg/kg q8-12h PO.
Cats
• 0.08-0.16 mg/kg q12h PO.
Composition
Each bolus contains Metronidazole 1000 mg
Furazolidone 500 mg
Loperamide HCL : 7.5 mg
Dosage
Large animals 1 -2 bolus twice a day Small animals : 1 /2-1 bolus twice a day
MARCOGYL-LM
