Marbofloxacin

Marbofloxacin In Dogs & Cats: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

• A broad-spectrum agent that functions by reducing the activity of bacterial DNA gyrase.
• This inhibition occurs in a concentration-dependent manner, with a specific efficacy against Gram-negative bacteria.
• As a result, pulse-dosing regimens may prove to be useful in treating infections caused by these bacteria.
• A decrease in urine pH has the potential to diminish activity levels.

Uses of Marbofloxacin

• Active against mycoplasmas as well as a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, such as Pasteurella, Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella, Escherichia coli, Proteus, and Salmonella.
• Fluoroquinolones have demonstrated efficacy in combating bacteria that produce beta-lactamase.
• Fluoroquinolones exhibit a strong affinity for lipids and possess the ability to accumulate in high levels within cells across various tissues.
• Consequently, they demonstrate notable efficacy in treating soft tissue, urogenital (including pyelonephritis and prostatitis), and skin infections.
• The potential efficacy of doxycycline treatment in resolving persistent infection of Mycoplasma haemofelis in cats may be explored.

Dose of Marbofloxacin in Dogs and Cats

Dogs:

• Oral and parenteral: 2 mg/kg i.v., s.c., p.o. q24h.
• Higher doses should be considered for certain sites, including in prostatitis, and for certain isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
• Topical: 10 drops per ear once daily.

Cats:

• 2 mg/kg i.v., s.c., p.o. q24h.

Side Effects of Marbofloxacin in Dogs and Cats

• Gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting.
•  The administration of elevated dosages of enrofloxacin has been associated with the development of retinal blindness in felines.
• Previous studies have documented the occurrence of cartilage defects subsequent to the administration of several fluoroquinolones in developing animals.
• There have been no specific reports of such anomalies occurring as a direct result of marbofloxacin administration.
• It is important to note that the use of this antibiotic is not approved for dogs younger than 12 months of age and cats younger than 16 weeks.
• It is not recommended to offer giant breeds to animals that are less than 18 months old.

Contraindications of Marbofloxacin in Dogs and Cats

• The 20 mg and 80 mg tablets should not be administered to cats.

Some Notes:

• Cations such as Mg2+ and Al3+ found in absorbents and antacids have the potential to bond with fluoroquinolones, hence impeding their absorption within the gastrointestinal system.
• The absorption of these substances can also be hindered by the presence of sucralfate and zinc salts.
• It is recommended to administer these substances at least 2 hours apart to avoid any potential interference.
• The administration of fluoroquinolones has been observed to result in an elevation of plasma theophylline concentrations.
• The concurrent administration of cimetidine and fluoroquinolones may potentially result in a decrease in the elimination rate of the latter, necessitating careful consideration while using these medications together.
• Certain fluoroquinolones have the potential to inhibit the metabolism and enhance the nephrotoxic effects of ciclosporin and tacrolimus in humans.
• Consequently, it is advisable to refrain from administering these drugs concurrently in animals until further investigation has been conducted.
• There is a potential for enhanced efficacy of orally given anticoagulants.
• It is advisable to use caution when administering fluoroquinolones concurrently with NSAIDs in individuals with epilepsy, as there is currently limited information available. This is due to the potential for fluoroquinolones to enhance central nervous system adverse effects in humans.