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What is Marbofloxacin?

L.K. Blackburn
L.K. Blackburn

Marbofloxacin is a broad spectrum anti-bacterial veterinary medicine used to treat skin and soft issue infections in dogs, cats, and horses. It is a fluoroquinolone-type antibiotic, and is created synthetically. Common side effects of the medicine include decreased appetite and activity, dehydration, and vomiting.

The amount of marbofloxacin prescribed to an animal depends on the breed, weight, and type of infection that needs treating. Larger animals and intense types of infections will require a higher dosage, and a veterinarian should always be responsible for determining the amount to administer. The drug is taken orally, generally in tablet form. It is most commonly used to treat skin and soft tissue issues, such as those resulting from staphylococcus infections. Other ailments frequently treated by the medicine are the bacterial infection canine pyoderma in dogs, and urinary tract infections in cats.

Veterinarian with a puppy
Veterinarian with a puppy

This drug is administered orally, and is absorbed by an animal's gastrointestinal tract. Marbofloxacin is metabolized primarily in the kidneys, but is also processed infrequently by the liver. The antibiotic is water soluble, but this changes in alkaline conditions.

The entire course of drugs prescribed to an animal should be taken to make sure the issue is gone. The time necessary for marbofloxacin to be effective will depend upon both the animal's size and the severity of the infection. Some urinary tract infections will clear up faster than other issues for which marbofloxacin is prescribed, such as staphylococcus infections. Medicine should be taken completely as indicated by a veterinarian even once symptoms have subsided in order to prevent complications and the issue reoccurring.

It is important to closely watch an animal taking marbofloxacin for signs of side effects. These include both behavioral changes such as decreased activity as well as appearance changes such as dilated pupils, rashes, and swelling. The medicine may also cause dehydration, meaning it may be a good idea to make sure the animal is drinking enough water consistently. Other side effects that may result from the use of marbofloxacin are vomiting, diarrhea, and soft stools. This medicine should not be given to animals who experience central nervous system disorders, as it may induce seizures.

The absorption of the drug is decreased by calcium, iron, and aluminum. As a result, consumption of antacids and dairy products should be avoided immediately prior to medicine administration. There has been no substantial evidence that the use of marbofloxacin contributes to or creates resistances to other similar quinolone antibiotics. The medicine is typically regulated for use only by veterinarian recommendation in most regions.

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    • Veterinarian with a puppy
      Veterinarian with a puppy