Ketoconazole is an antifungal product that is used relatively frequently in veterinary medicine. In this article on our site we will explain the characteristics of ketoconazole for dogs. It is essential that we only use this medicine if it has been prescribed by the veterinarian and that we scrupulously follow its instructions. Treatments with ketoconazole are prolonged and can cause side effects, so only the professional can decide if its use is appropriate or not.
If the veterinarian has already indicated that you should administer this drug to your dog and you are interested in knowing all the related information, such as the side effects it produces or the recommended dose, keep reading, we will explainall about ketoconazole for dogs , dosage, uses and much more.
What is ketoconazole?
Ketoconazole is an antifungal or antimycotic of the azole group. Ketoconazole for dogs is available in different presentations and it is common to combine several. It is the task of the veterinarian to choose the most appropriate treatment for the dog, depending on its circumstances and the clinical picture.
Oral ketoconazole for dogs has the advantage of a faster effect than if it is applied topically, but, on the other hand, topical products control environmental contamination, hence its importance. Thus, we find ketoconazole tablets or oral suspension or ketoconazole shampoo for dogs, which can be used for the entire body or only for certain areas. It must be left to act for a few minutes for it to have the desired effect. We insist that the shampoo alone is not curative, it only reduces the infective capacity, so it must be combined with a systemic antifungal treatment. Ketoconazole shampoo may also contain chlorhexidine, which is a disinfectant with a bactericidal effect.
Regardless of the format, it is the same product, ketoconazole, and only its presentation will change. The treatment period in these cases is usually prolonged, generally exceeding two months. For topical use, ketoconazole cream is also available. Like shampoo, it basically reduces the risk of contagion, so it is combined with systemic treatment.
What is ketoconazole for dogs used for?
Ketoconazole has an antifungal effect capable of eliminating fungi such as Microsporum canis. Therefore, its use is limited to those pathologies caused by fungi, but it also acts against such common yeasts as Malassezia pachydermatis.
This type of disease is usually contagious, so it is important that the animal receives treatment soon and that we follow the hygienic measures indicated by the veterinarian to avoid, as far as possible, its transmission. Let's not forget that fungi in dogs, in addition to infecting other animals, can affect people.
In addition to fungal infections, it should be noted that it has also been found to be somewhat useful in the treatment of hyperadrenocorticism or Cushing's syndrome.
Ketoconazole Dosage for Dogs
Ketoconazole tablets are administered at doses of 5 mg per kg of body weight every 12 hours or 10 mg, if given a once a day It is best offered with food because it is better absorbed.
In any case, we repeat, it must be the veterinarian who stipulates the appropriate dose of ketoconazole for the dog in question depending on the problem or disease it presents. An inadequate administration of this or any medication can develop serious consequences for the animal, such as intoxication or digestive problems.
Ketoconazole for Dogs: Side Effects
Ketoconazole, even at the recommended dose, can cause adverse reactions such as anorexia, vomiting or diarrhea Liver changes are also noteworthy, since which is a drug that can be toxic to the liver. In this case, we are likely to notice jaundice, which is the yellowish coloration of the mucous membranes. Likewise, ketoconazole interferes with the metabolism of some hormones and compounds. For example, it affects testosterone, which would have consequences on the reproductive capacity of the dog during the treatment and up to a few weeks afterwards.
Other less common effects of ketoconazole in dogs are neurological, such as apathy, incoordination, or tremors. When there is an overdose, in addition to symptoms such as those mentioned, itching and lack of hair can also be seen.
In addition to the adverse effects after consumption mentioned, ketoconazole is teratogenic, which means that it causes malformations in fetuses By Therefore, it should not be given to pregnant bitches. It is also not recommended for infants, puppies under two months or those with liver disease. Likewise, it interacts with various drugs, so it should never be offered to the dog without the veterinarian's prescription.
