Every pet owner should have an antibiotic in their medicine cabinet. Marfloxacin for dogs belongs to this group of medications. It is a broad-spectrum antibacterial agent. The instructions for use of this medication provide information on the composition, dosage forms, properties, purpose, and dosage.
Release forms and composition
Marfloxacin belongs to a group of antibacterial agents called fluoroquinolones. It is manufactured by KRKA, Slovenia.
For dogs, the following dosage forms are available:
- injection solution;
- pills.
Solution
In appearance, it is a transparent, greenish-yellow or brownish-yellow liquid. 1 ml contains 20 mg of the active substance - marbofloxacin.
Auxiliary components:
- disodium edetate;
- mannitol;
- gluconolactone;
- water;
- monothioglycerol;
- metacresol.
Marfloxacin for dogs is packaged in dark bottles of 20, 50, and 100 ml. It has a shelf life of 3 years at 5–25°C. Do not freeze. Once opened, use within 28 days.
Pills
Marfloxacin tablets are biconvex and round. One side has a score line that allows the tablet to be divided in half. They are pale yellow-brown in color and may contain white and dark specks. The active ingredient is marbofloxacin. Depending on its content, the following strengths are available: 5, 20, and 80 mg.
Minor components:
- silicon dioxide;
- lactose monohydrate;
- flavoring agent;
- povidone;
- magnesium stearate;
- castor oil;
- yeast powder;
- crospovidone.
The tablets are in blisters, packed in boxes. Shelf life: 3 years at 0–25 °C.
Properties
The medication's bactericidal action is due to the active ingredient, marbofloxacin. This component is effective against bacterial enzymes. The injection is well absorbed and reaches the dog's organs and tissues.
Marfloxacin belongs to class 4 (low-hazard substance) in terms of its level of impact.
Purpose
Indications for prescribing Marfloxacin for dogs depend on the form of the drug.
The injection solution is indicated for the treatment of:
- abscesses and infected wounds;
- urinary tract infections.
It is also used to prevent wound infections during surgery.
Marfloxacin tablets are prescribed for the treatment of bacterial and mycoplasmal infections in dogs:
- skin;
- respiratory organs;
- wounds;
- genitourinary system;
- soft tissues.
Contraindications
Each form of the drug has general and individual restrictions.
General contraindications:
- intolerance to components;
- resistance of the pathogen to other substances of the fluoroquinolone group;
- Concomitant use of marfloxacin with chloramphenicol and tetracycline and macrolide antibiotics.
The drug is not used until large breed puppies reach one and a half years of age, and until the age of one year for other breeds.
Injection solution:
- According to the official instructions for the drug, marfloxacin injections are not recommended for use in dogs with CNS disorders.
- The use of injections during pregnancy and lactation in animals is determined by a veterinarian, taking into account the possible risk.
Contraindications for tablets:
- obvious disturbances in the development of cartilaginous tissue;
- CNS diseases with convulsive manifestations;
- pregnancy and lactation.
It is not recommended to take Marfloxacin tablets simultaneously with medications containing magnesium, iron, aluminum, or calcium.
Security measures
When working with drugs of both forms, it is necessary to adhere to the safety rules for the use of veterinary products and maintain personal hygiene.
If the medicine comes into contact with mucous membranes or skin, wash it off immediately with soap and water.
If you experience any allergic reactions, consult a doctor immediately. It's a good idea to have the instructions or label with you.
Persons sensitive to fluoroquinolones should avoid contact with the drug.
Used medicine packaging should be disposed of with household waste.
Instructions for use
The method of using drugs in the form of injection solution and tablets is different.
Solution
According to the manufacturer's official instructions, Marfloxacin injection for the treatment of infectious wounds and abscesses in dogs is administered subcutaneously once. The recommended dose is 2 mg/kg or 1 ml/10 kg of body weight. Subsequent treatment is with Marfloxacin tablets.
The therapeutic dosage for urinary tract infections in dogs is 2 ml/10 kg or 4 mg/kg of body weight. The injection is administered subcutaneously once daily. A course of treatment requires three injections, with four days between each.
Prevention of wound and abscess infections during surgery requires a single intravenous injection of the solution immediately after surgery. The dose is 2 mg/kg.
Pills
Marbofloxacin tablets are crushed and administered once daily. The medication can be mixed into the dog's food or administered forcefully to the back of the tongue. Dosage: 2 mg of marbofloxacin per 1 kg of body weight. The duration of treatment depends on the condition and is:
- respiratory diseases - 7-21 days;
- skin infections - 5-40 days;
- Disorders of the genitourinary system - 10–28 days.
General information
No unusual manifestations were recorded when using the injection or tablets for the first time or when stopping them.
To avoid a reduction in effectiveness, it is not recommended to skip Marfloxacin. If a dose is missed, continue taking the medication as usual and at the same dosage.
Side effects
Use of Marfloxacin in accordance with the instructions for use does not cause complications or side effects.
Overdose of injection solution may result in:
- to disorders of the nervous system;
- manifestations of bradycardia (slow heartbeat).
Inflammation may occur after the injection.
Using tablets may cause:
- increased frequency of bowel movements (urge to go to the toilet);
- vomiting;
- loose stools.
Such manifestations pass and do not require discontinuation of the drug.
When used according to the instructions, Marfloxacin injections can be effective in treating a variety of conditions in dogs. Use of Marfloxacin requires consideration of contraindications and potential side effects. Consultation with a veterinarian is essential.
