Orbifloxacin In Dogs & Cats: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects
Overview
- Concentration-dependent inhibition of DNA gyrase meaning that pulse dosing regimens may be effective.
Uses of OrbifloxacinÂ
- The use of fluoroquinolones should be reserved for infections where culture and sensitivity testing indicate a likely clinical response, especially when first- and second-line antimicrobials are not effective.
- These drugs have a broad spectrum of activity and are particularly effective against mycoplasmas, many Gram-negative organisms, and some Gram-positive bacteria like Pasteurella, Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, Escherichia coli, Proteus, and Salmonella.
- Fluoroquinolones are also effective against beta-lactamase-producing bacteria.
- Orbifloxacin is not effective in treating obligate anaerobic infections.
- It is a highly lipophilic drug, meaning it reaches high concentrations within cells in various tissues, making it especially useful in managing soft tissue, urogenital (including prostatic), and skin infections.
- Caution should be exercised when considering dose rates above those recommended by the manufacturer.
Dose of Orbifloxacin in Dogs and Cats
Dogs:
- Bacterial cystitis: 2.5 mg/kg p.o. q24.
- Skin and other soft tissue infections: 7.5 mg/kg p.o. q24h.
- For the otic preparation: 2–8 drops per ear q24h. ( The number of drops is determined by the weight of the dog).
Cats:
- Skin and other soft tissue infections: 7.5 mg/kg p.o. q24h.
Drug Dosage Calculator
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Side Effects of Orbifloxacin in Dogs and Cats
- While cartilage abnormalities have been documented in growing animals with other fluoroquinolones, specific reports of such issues arising from the use of orbifloxacin are lacking. Nevertheless, caution should still be exercised.
- In dogs, these drugs should be used cautiously in epileptic individuals, as they can enhance central nervous system (CNS) adverse effects when administered concurrently with NSAIDs, based on information available from human studies.
- Fluoroquinolones have been linked to retinal blindness in cats, and although this is considered less likely with orbifloxacin, higher doses should be administered with caution.
Contraindications of Orbifloxacin in Dogs and Cats
- Due to concerns regarding cartilage damage, orbifloxacin is contraindicated in giant-breed dogs <18 months old, large breeds <12 months old, and small and medium-sized breeds <8 months old.
- Should not be used in pregnant or lactating bitches or animals for breeding.
- Do not use the otic preparation in animals <4 months of age or if the tympanum is not intact.
Some Notes:
- Absorbents and antacids containing cations like magnesium (Mg2+) and aluminum (Al3+) have the potential to bind to fluoroquinolones, hindering their absorption in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
- Additionally, their absorption can be inhibited by sucralfate and zinc salts, so it’s advisable to administer them separately with at least a 2-hour gap.
- Fluoroquinolones can increase plasma theophylline concentrations.
- When used in conjunction with cimetidine, there is a potential for reduced clearance of fluoroquinolones, so caution should be exercised with this combination.
- In humans, some fluoroquinolones have been known to decrease the metabolism and increase the nephrotoxicity of ciclosporin and tacrolimus.
- Therefore, it is generally best to avoid concurrent use of these medications in animals until further research has been conducted.
- Furthermore, fluoroquinolones may enhance the effects of orally administered anticoagulants.
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