Dog Health & CareKetoconazole for Dogs: Uses, Dosage, & Side Effects

Ketoconazole for Dogs: Uses, Dosage, & Side Effects

Ketoconazole is a drug used to treat fungal infections in dogs. Veterinarians may also use it to treat Cushing’s disease. When it begins working in a dog’s body, the drug blocks cortisol formation in the adrenal glands and inhibits the production of the fungal cell walls. It’s a generic form of Nizoral and Ketochlor. Other forms of this drug have been created to reduce the number of potential side effects. Itraconazole and fluconazole are two of these drugs. Before using the drug, you must strictly follow the veterinary instructions and talk to your vet if you notice any concerning side effects.

Here’s what you should know about ketoconazole’s uses, dosage, and side effects for dogs.

Uses of ketoconazole for dogs

Vets use Ketoconazole to treat external and internal fungal infections in dogs. Vets may treat infections of the lymph nodes, skin, nails, respiratory system, bone, and other parts of the body with this drug. The shampoo that mixes with the drug chlorhexidine helps fight the fungal and bacterial infections in the dog’s skin. Because this drug can block the formation of cortisol in the adrenal glands, vets may also use it as a treatment option for dogs with Cushing’s disease.

Dosage of ketoconazole for dogs

The usual dosage of ketoconazole for dogs depends on the condition being treated. It can range from 2.2 to 13 mg per pound of body weight given every 12 to 24 hours. This medication is available in 200 mg tablets, and dogs should take it orally. Note that it’s only available with a veterinarian’s prescription. You may follow your vet’s instructions thoroughly on giving them this medication.

Side effects of ketoconazole for dogs

ketoconazole for dogs
Image-source: wagwalkingweb

There are side effects of ketoconazole in dogs that you should be aware of before letting your pup swallow these pills. One side effect is that it blocks cortisone in the adrenal gland, which can be harmful in some cases but is a benefit when treating Cushing’s disease. Here are a few other side effects you may see in dogs who take ketoconazole:

  • Dizziness
  • Abdominal pain
  • Fatigue
  • Itching and rashes
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Jaundice
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Liver damage
  • Blood disorders

If any of these side effects become adverse in your pup, contact your vet. He may eventually alter the dosage or seek an alternative form of treatment. You must make the vet aware of other medical concerns in your pup if there are any. Some medications may even have fatal side effects when mixed with this drug. This drug should not be given to any dogs who are pregnant or nursing. These medications have a chance of being allergic to your pup. They can lead to anaphylaxis, a potentially deadly condition. Hence, if you see the signs of an allergic reaction in your dog — including swelling, itching, hives, and other symptoms — you may contact your vet immediately.

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