Enrofloxacin (Baytril®)
By: Dr. Mark Papich

Overview

Enrofloxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat infections in animals caused by susceptible bacteria.

Enrofloxacin belongs to a general class of antibiotics known as fluoroquinolones. Other related drugs in this class include ciprofloxacin.

Enrofloxacin is thought to inhibit the synthesis of DNA within the bacteria, resulting in bacterial death.

Enrofloxacin is a prescription drug and can only be obtained from a veterinarian or by prescription from a veterinarian.

Brand Names and Other Names

This drug is registered for use in animals only.

Human formulations: None

Veterinary formulations: Baytril® (Bayer Animal Health)

Uses of Enrofloxacin

Enrofloxacin is used to treat a variety of infections, including skin infections, urinary tract infections, respiratory infections and wound infections caused by susceptible bacteria.

Enrofloxacin is not effective for treating infections caused by viruses, parasites or molds.

Precautions and Side Effects

While generally safe and effective when prescribed by a veterinarian, enrofloxacin can cause side effects in some animals.

Enrofloxacin should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug.

Enrofloxacin may interact with other medications. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if other drugs your pet is receiving could interact with enrofloxacin. Such drugs include antacid medications, iron supplements and some stomach protectants.

Occasionally, some animals develop diarrhea or loose stools from enrofloxacin.

Very rarely, enrofloxacin has precipitated some behavior changes or seizures in animals.

Young animals treated with enrofloxacin may develop damage to the cartilage of their joints. Swollen joints and lameness are clinical signs that may be observed.

Enrofloxacin should not be administered to puppies. Those between the ages of 4 and 28 weeks are the most susceptible.

A rare but very serious adverse reaction – blindness – has been observed in cats treated with injectable enrofloxacin. When administering enrofloxacin to cats it is important not to exceed the manufacturer's recommended dose.

How Enrofloxacin Is Supplied

Enrofloxacin is available in tablets of 22.7 mg, 68 mg and 136 mg.

There also is an injection of 22.7 mg/ml.

Dosing Information

Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian.

The typical dose administered to dogs is 2.5 to 10 mg per pound (5 to 20 mg/kg) orally per day. The total daily dose may be given once a day or divided into twice daily doses.

In cats, the dose should not exceed 5 mg/kg per day orally.

The duration of administration depends on the condition being treated, response to the medication and the development of any adverse effects. Be certain to complete the prescription unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. Even if your pet feels better, the entire treatment plan should be completed to prevent relapse or prevent the development of resistance.

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