Ronidazole

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

Overview

• Ronidazole is converted into polar autotoxic anion radicals within the organism.

Uses of Ronidazole

• Treatment of Tritrichomonas foetus infections in cats
• Although licensed for use in pigeons, the formulation is not suitable for cats.
• However, as ronidazole is currently considered to be the treatment of choice for T. foetus, a special order on a named patient basis can be reformulated by an appropriate company and prescribed under the cascade.

Dose of Ronidazole in Dogs and Cats

Dogs:

• No indication.

Cats:

• For treatment of T. foetus 20–30 mg/kg p.o. q24h for 14 days.
• Use reduced dose of 10 mg/kg p.o. q24h in kittens and cats with hepatopathy.

Side Effects of Ronidazole in Dogs and Cats

• Neurotoxicity has been reported in cats and signs may include lethargy, ataxia, nystagmus, seizures, agitation, tremors and anorexia.

Contraindications of Ronidazole in Dogs and Cats

• Do not use in patients with hypersensitivity to nitroimidazoles such as metronidazole.
• Avoid use in pregnancy and use milk replacer if used in nursing cats.

Some Notes:

• Likely to see similar interactions to metronidazole. Cimetidine and ketoconazole may decrease the metabolism and increase toxicity of ronidazole.
• Ronidazole may increase serum levels of ciclosporin and fluorouracil.
• Oxytetracycline may antagonize the efficacy of ronidazole.
• Phenobarbital, rifampin and phenytoin may increase the metabolism and decrease the efficacy of ronidazole.
• Ronidazole may potentiate the anticoagulant effects of warfarin.