Terbinafine

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

Overview

• Inhibits ergosterol synthesis by inhibiting squalene epoxidase, an enzyme that is part of the fungal cell wall synthesis pathway.

Uses of Terbinafine

• Management of dermatophytosis, Malassezia dermatitis and otitis, subcutaneous and systemic fungal infections in cats and dogs.

Dose of Terbinafine in Dogs and Cats

Dogs, Cats:

• Antifungal: 20–40 mg/kg p.o. q24h; doses greater than 30 mg/kg may be required to reach therapeutic levels in the skin of dogs.
• Cream may be used to treat localized Malassezia infections.

Side Effects of Terbinafine in Dogs and Cats

• Vomiting, diarrhoea, increased liver enzymes, pruritus (cats).
• Topical solutions contain alcohol and may cause irritation.
• Transient deafness, impaired hearing may occur in elderly dogs after administration of the ear gel.

Contraindications of Terbinafine in Dogs and Cats

• Do not use ear gel if the eardrum is perforated.
• not use topically or systemically in dogs with generalized demodicosis or in pregnant or breeding animals.

Some Notes:

• The gel is authorized for treating acute otitis externa and acute exacerbation of recurrent otitis externa associated with Staphylococcus pseudintermedius and Malassezia pachydermatis.
• Apply the ear gel in a cleaned ear, administering one tube per infected ear.
• Repeat administration after 7 days, and the maximum clinical response may take up to 21 days after the second administration.
• Optimal therapeutic regimens for systemic use, such as refractory nasal aspergillosis, are still being investigated.
• Pretreatment and monitoring CBC, renal, and liver function tests are advised for systemic use.