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Pet Medication 101: Simplicef

Pet Med Simplicef

It’s important to understand a medication’s uses and side effects before giving it to your pet. This medication info sheet is meant to give you a good understanding of what Simplicef (cefpodoxime proxetil) is used for, how it works, and potential side effects in cats and dogs. Always consult a veterinarian before giving your pet any medication.

1. Drug Name:

Cefpodoxime proxetil

2. Common Name or Brand Name:

Simplicef

3. How Dispensed:

Prescription only

4. Forms:

Tablets 100mg, Tablets 200mg, Oral Suspension 10mg/ml, Oral Suspension 20mg/ml

5. Drug Type/Class:

Third Generation Cephalosporin, broad-spectrum antibiotic

6. Uses in Dogs and Cats:

Simplicef is commonly used to treat bacterial skin infections. It is effective in the treatment of Staphylococcus intermedius, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus canis (Group G, β-hemolytic), Escherichia coli, Pasteurella multocida, and Proteus mirabilis. Simplicef may also be used to treat deep tissue wounds, abscesses, lacerations, and urinary tract infections.

7. How it works:

It inhibits the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. Simplicef is bactericidal, meaning that it kills bacteria.

8. Side Effects and/or Signs of Overdosage:

Simplicef is very well tolerated by pets and unlikely to cause any significant problems. However, allergic reactions, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and vomiting have all been seen with this drug.

9. Drug Interactions:

Antacids are known to decrease the absorption of Simplicef by the stomach. For this reason, omeprazole (Prilosec), cimetidine (Tagamet), and famotidine (Pepcid) should all be avoided.

10. Cautionary Statements:

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

Read more:

Pet Medication Guide: What Common Medications Can and Can’t Dogs Take?

How to Give Your Cat Oral Medication

How to Give Your Dog Oral Medication

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