Description

Cefpodoxime Tablets are a prescription cephalosporin antibiotic for oral use in dogs. Cefpodoxime proxetil is converted in the body to its active form, cefpodoxime, which works against susceptible bacteria.

Cefpodoxime is FDA approved for the treatment of skin infections, including wounds and abscesses, in dogs caused by susceptible strains of specific bacteria.

This medication is administered once daily according to veterinarian directions. Cefpodoxime Tablets are a generic alternative to Simplicef®. Brand, manufacturer, tablet appearance, packaging, and inactive ingredients may vary depending on product availability.

Uses & Benefits

• Treats certain bacterial skin infections in dogs
• FDA approved for susceptible bacterial infections involving wounds and abscesses
• Cephalosporin antimicrobial medication
• Convenient once daily oral administration
• Available in multiple strengths for veterinarian directed dosing
• Generic alternative to Simplicef®
• Brand and manufacturer may vary depending on availability

How It Works

Cefpodoxime proxetil is an orally administered cephalosporin antibiotic and a prodrug that is converted to its active metabolite, cefpodoxime.

Cefpodoxime works against susceptible bacteria by interfering with bacterial cell wall synthesis. This activity helps control susceptible bacterial infections when the medication is administered according to veterinarian directions.

Appropriate antibiotic selection should be based on the veterinarian's evaluation of the individual dog and the suspected or identified bacteria.

Indications

Cefpodoxime Tablets are indicated for the treatment of skin infections, including wounds and abscesses, in dogs caused by susceptible strains of:

• Staphylococcus pseudintermedius
• Staphylococcus aureus
• Streptococcus canis (Group G, beta hemolytic)
• Escherichia coli
• Pasteurella multocida
• Proteus mirabilis

Use for other conditions should only occur when specifically prescribed by a veterinarian.

Ingredients

Active Ingredients:

Cefpodoxime Proxetil equivalent to:

• Cefpodoxime — 100 mg per tablet
• Cefpodoxime — 200 mg per tablet

Inactive Ingredients:

Inactive ingredients may vary by brand and manufacturer. Refer to the manufacturer label supplied with the dispensed medication for complete inactive ingredient information.

Directions

Administer orally exactly as prescribed by your veterinarian.

The labeled dosage range of cefpodoxime for dogs is 5 to 10 mg/kg (2.3 to 4.5 mg/lb) of body weight once daily.

Treatment is generally administered for 5 to 7 days or for 2 to 3 days beyond the cessation of clinical signs, up to a maximum of 28 days.

The veterinarian will determine the appropriate dose and duration based on the dog's weight, condition, response to treatment, and other individual factors.

Weight / Dosage

Administer exactly as prescribed by your veterinarian. Follow the prescription label exactly and veterinarian directions. Do not adjust the dose, frequency, or duration of administration unless directed by your veterinarian.

Complete the prescribed course of antibiotic therapy unless your veterinarian specifically instructs you to discontinue or change treatment.

Cautions

• Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.
• For oral use in dogs only.
• Do not use in dogs with a known allergy to cefpodoxime or other cephalosporin antibiotics.
• Use with caution in dogs with a history of sensitivity to penicillins or other beta lactam antibiotics.
• Serious hypersensitivity reactions may occur in sensitive animals.
• If an allergic or other serious reaction occurs, discontinue administration and contact your veterinarian immediately.
• Antimicrobial medications should be used according to veterinarian directions.
• Not for human use.
• Keep out of reach of children and animals.

Possible Side Effects

Cefpodoxime is generally well tolerated when administered according to veterinarian directions. Possible adverse reactions may include:

• Vomiting / Diarrhea / Decreased appetite / Lethargy

Hypersensitivity or allergic reactions may occur in animals sensitive to cephalosporins or related antibiotics.

Blood abnormalities, including neutropenia, may occur with high doses of cephalosporins.

Discontinue administration and contact your veterinarian if your dog develops facial swelling, difficulty breathing, hives, persistent vomiting or diarrhea, significant changes in appetite or activity, or another unexpected reaction.

Precautions

Appropriate veterinary evaluation is recommended before beginning antibiotic therapy.

The use of cefpodoxime should be based on the veterinarian's evaluation of the individual dog and the suspected or identified bacterial infection.

Use with caution in dogs with known hypersensitivity to penicillins or other beta lactam antibiotics because cross sensitivity may occur.

The safety of cefpodoxime in dogs used for breeding, pregnant dogs, or lactating dogs has not been demonstrated.

Use in dogs with significantly impaired kidney function should be carefully evaluated by the veterinarian because dosage adjustments may be appropriate.

Tell your veterinarian about all prescription medications, over the counter products, vitamins, and supplements your dog is receiving before beginning treatment.

Use antibiotics responsibly and only for the condition for which they were prescribed. Do not share prescription medication between animals.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C). Temperature excursions may be permitted between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C) depending on the manufacturer. Store in a tight, light resistant container and replace the cap securely after each opening. Follow the storage instructions provided on the prescription label and manufacturer packaging supplied with the medication.

Disposal

Dispose of unused or expired Cefpodoxime Tablets according to applicable local medication disposal requirements.
Do not give unused prescription antibiotics to another animal and do not save leftover antibiotics for future use unless specifically instructed by your veterinarian.
Ask your veterinarian, pharmacist, or local medication take back program about appropriate disposal options.
Keep discarded medication securely out of reach of children and animals.