Was your pup recently diagnosed with a skin infection? Whether their skin is itchy, red or flaking, help might be on the way if your veterinarian prescribes them Simplicef.
This antibiotic can help relieve a range of skin problems, including wounds or abscesses, but you should be aware of potential side effects before serving it to your dog.
Simplicef (a brand name of cefpodoxime) is a prescription antibiotic used to treat skin infections — including wounds and abscesses — caused by parasites, immune diseases or inflammation in dogs, Dr. Emily Singler, Fetch’s on-staff veterinarian, explains.
When it comes to skin-related infections, Simplicef helps to treat allergies, fleas, mange, bite wounds from another animal or trauma. This antibiotic also helps resolve other bacterial infections such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), Pasteurella multocida and Proteus mirabilis.
Although Simplicef is mainly used for skin ailments, it's also sometimes recommended to treat different infection types depending on a veterinarian’s preference, Dr. Singler shares.
“Most dogs tolerate the antibiotic well in my experience,” Dr. Singler says. But she adds that Simplicef has side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea and decreased appetite.
If your pup has an allergy to cefpodoxime or other antibiotics, such as penicillins or cephalosporins (found in Cephalexin), they shouldn’t take Simplicef, Dr. Singler warns. Talk to your veterinarian if your pet had an adverse reaction to the antibiotic, as there might be a better alternative.
“Simplicef hasn’t been studied in pregnant or lactating dogs, so this should be discussed with a veterinarian before using it,” Dr. Singler adds.
Simplicef comes in 100 and 200-milligram tablet sizes. It’s typically given once daily by mouth, and the tablets can be broken if needed. Pet parents should follow their veterinarian’s instructions and ensure to finish all the medication unless told otherwise.
Your veterinarian can tell you how to properly serve Simplicef, including the appropriate amount to give your dog. Always follow your veterinarian's instructions and recommended dosages, and get help if your pet’s reacts to the antibiotic abnormally.
The Dig, Fetch Pet Insurance's expert-backed editorial, answers all of the questions you forget to ask your vet or are too embarrassed to ask at the dog park. We help make sure you and your best friend have more good days, but we’re there on bad days, too.
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