Pet Medication 101: Amoxicillin

1. Drug Name:

Amoxicillin

2. Common Names or Brand Names:

Amoxi-Tabs, Biomox, Robomox-V

3. How Dispensed:

Prescription only

4. Forms:

Tablets 50mg, Tablets 100mg, Tablets 200mg, Tablets 400mg, Oral Suspension 50mg/ml

5. Drug Type/Class:

Aminopenicillin, a broad-spectrum antibiotic

6. Uses in Dogs and Cats:

Amoxicillin is used to treat a wide range of infections including urinary tract infections, periodontal disease, gastrointestinal infections, respiratory infections, and many other soft tissue infections.

7. How it works:

This antibiotic inhibits mucopeptide synthesis of the bacterial cell wall, making the barrier defective. It is bactericidal, meaning that it kills bacteria.

8. Side Effects and/or Signs of Overdosage:

Amoxicillin is very well tolerated by pets and side effects are infrequent. However, allergic reactions, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and vomiting have all been seen with this drug.

If used at high doses for prolonged periods, ataxia (abnormal movements), tachycardia (increased heart rate), and dyspnea (difficulty breathing) have been reported.

9. Drug Interactions:

Bacteriostatic antibiotics are not generally recommended with penicillin. Drugs like chloramphenicol, erythromycin, and tetracyclines should all be avoided. Probenecid can block the secretion of penicillin from the kidney and is also contra-indicated.

10. Cautionary Statements:

Amoxicillin should be avoided in patients that have hypersensitivity reactions to penicillin. It should be used cautiously, decreasing the dosage and frequency, in patients with significant kidney disease.

Read more:

Skin Infections in Dogs: Bacterial Infections

Types of Skin Infections in Cats

Everything You Need to Know About Your Cat’s Dental Health

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