Azithromycin
Veterinary Compounding Medication – Customized for Dogs, Cats, and Horses (Foals)
Quick Reference
Basic Information
Azithromycin is a semi-synthetic macrolide antibiotic derived from erythromycin, widely used in veterinary medicine for its effectiveness against a variety of bacterial infections. Compared to erythromycin, it has a longer half-life and improved absorption, making it a preferred treatment for dogs, cats, and horses.
Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, which halts bacterial growth. This bacteriostatic effect contributes to its broad-spectrum coverage and reduced dosing frequency compared to older macrolides.
Veterinary Medicine Uses
Azithromycin is effective against a broad range of bacterial organisms, including Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Chlamydia, Haemophilus, Mycoplasma, and Borrelia burgdorferi. It is frequently used in the treatment of dermatological infections, urogenital infections, respiratory tract infections, and otitis media in companion animals.
In specific cases, it has proven beneficial for Babesia gibsoni in dogs, Bartonella infections in cats, and Rhodococcus equi infections in foals. Its broad efficacy and tolerance profile make it a versatile option for many veterinarians.
Potential Side Effects
Common gastrointestinal effects include abdominal discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhea. These are typically mild and self-limiting.
In rare cases, more serious effects such as cardiac arrhythmias, ventricular tachycardia, or renal dysfunction can occur. Pets receiving azithromycin should be monitored carefully throughout treatment, especially those with pre-existing heart or kidney conditions.
Drug Interactions
Azithromycin can interact with medications such as ergotamine, dihydroergotamine, triazolam, pimozide, cisapride, and other macrolide antibiotics. Concurrent use with rifampin is common but requires monitoring for potential changes in drug levels. Caution is advised when administered alongside oral antacids or drugs metabolized via the cytochrome P450 enzyme system, as these may alter azithromycin's absorption or efficacy.
Precautions
Gastrointestinal upset is common, especially in foals, requiring careful dose adjustments and monitoring. In rare instances, hyperthermia has been reported in foals receiving azithromycin; therefore, exposure to heat should be minimized, and immediate cooling interventions should be implemented if signs of overheating occur. Close observation is essential to ensure safe and effective therapy.
Custom Veterinary Compounding for Azithromycin
For safe and reliable veterinary compounding of Azithromycin, trust Rock Ridge Pharmacy. Contact our pharmacy team to discuss tailored formulations, flavor options, and dosage strengths designed for dogs, cats, and foals.
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