Cefpodoxime for Dogs: A Medication to Treat Skin Infections

Cefpodoxime (Simplicef, Vantin, Cefpoderm) for dogs is an antibiotic that is widely used to treat bacterial infections in various parts of the body. It's typically prescribed as a once-daily oral antibiotic for skin infections.

Below, we'll cover how cefpodoxime works, what it's used for in dogs, side effects, and medication interactions.

Cefpodoxime for dogs at a glance

What is cefpodoxime for dogs, and how does it work?

Cefpodoxime for dogs is an antibiotic from the cephalosporin medication class. Cefpodoxime is called a broad-spectrum antibiotic because it can treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It becomes active in the gastrointestinal tract and kills bacteria by damaging the bacterial cell wall.

What is cefpodoxime used for in dogs?

Cefpodoxime for dogs is FDA approved to treat certain skin infections in dogs. It's effective against wounds and abscesses caused by strains of Staphylococcus, E. coli, and other harmful bacteria.

All other uses of cefpodoxime in dogs are considered off-label. These include treating respiratory, ear, and urinary tract infections.

Cefpodoxime doesn't treat all bacterial infections, and it's not effective against parasitic, viral, or fungal infections.

What is the cefpodoxime dosage for dogs?

Cefpodoxime is a prescription antibiotic that is most commonly given to dogs as a tablet. It typically comes in a 100 mg or 200 mg tablet that can be broken in half if necessary. Cefpodoxime is also available as a liquid oral suspension.

The dosage of cefpodoxime for dogs is usually 5 mg to 10 mg per kilogram of body weight once daily, with or without food. Your veterinarian will determine the appropriate dosage for your dog.

What are the common side effects of cefpodoxime in dogs?

In general, cefpodoxime is well tolerated by most dogs. The most common side effects of cefpodoxime in dogs are related to the gastrointestinal tract, including:

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Loss of appetite

These are common with all antibiotics. If you notice these side effects in your dog, consult your veterinarian.

What are the most serious risks of cefpodoxime for dogs?

The most serious side effects of cefpodoxime occur in dogs who have an allergy to cephalosporin antibiotics. Signs of an antibiotic allergy include:

• Rash

• Fever

• Pale gums

• Difficulty breathing

• Hives or facial swelling

Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your dog is having an allergic reaction to cefpodoxime.

In addition, cefpodoxime should not be used - or should be used with caution - in dogs with allergies to:

• Penicillin antibiotics

• Rapamycin

• Carbapenem antibiotics

All cephalosporin medications, including cefpodoxime, should be used with caution in dogs who have kidney disease or liver disease. It should also be used carefully in dogs who are nursing, breeding, or pregnant.

Does cefpodoxime interact with other dog medications?

Cefpodoxime should be used with caution in dogs who also take:

• Warfarin

• Probenecid

• Famotidine and other similar medications

• Amphotericin B

• Proton-pump inhibitors, like omeprazole or pantoprazole

Before your dog is prescribed cefpodoxime, tell your veterinarian which medications and supplements you give them.

What should you do if your dog misses a dose of cefpodoxime?

If you forget to give your dog a dose of cefpodoxime, give it again as soon as you remember. Then resume the regular dose schedule the next day. If you miss a day, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dose schedule. Never give 2 doses to catch up on missed doses.