Amoxicillin

What is amoxicillin and how does it work?

Amoxicillin is an active ingredient that destroys the cell wall of bacteria and thus kills them. It is a semi-synthetic penicillin, which means that it has been chemically modified from natural penicillin. Amoxicillin is effective against many gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria that can cause the following diseases in dogs, among others:

• Gastrointestinal diseases
• Diseases of the respiratory tract
• Diseases of the skin
• Diseases of the urinary tract
• Leptospirosis
• Anaplasmosis
• ehrlichiosis

Amoxicillin is often administered in combination with another active substance, clavulanic acid. Clavulanic acid inhibits an enzyme produced by some bacteria that would render amoxicillin ineffective. The combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid extends the antibiotic's spectrum of action.

How is amoxicillin dosed and administered in dogs?

The dosage of amoxicillin in dogs depends on the body weight and the severity of the infection. The usual dose is 10 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, divided into two doses. This means that you should give your dog half the daily dose in the morning and half in the evening. However, you should always discuss the exact dosage and duration of treatment with your vet.

Amoxicillin is available in various dosage forms, for example as tablets, capsules or oral suspension. You can give the antibiotic directly into your dog's mouth or mix it into their food. It is not important whether you give amoxicillin before or after eating.

What is important is that you do not stop or change the treatment with amoxicillin without authorization. You should always give the antibiotic for as long as prescribed by your vet, even if your dog is no longer showing symptoms. If you stop the treatment too early or choose a dose that is too low, not all bacteria may be killed and the infection may flare up again or resistance may develop.

What side effects can amoxicillin have in dogs?

Amoxicillin is generally well tolerated by dogs, but like any medication, it can have side effects. The most common side effects are:

• Gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
• Allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching or shortness of breath
• Changes in the blood count such as anemia or thrombocytopenia

If you notice any of these side effects in your dog, you should contact your vet immediately. They can tell you whether you need to stop or adjust the treatment with amoxicillin.

What should you consider when giving your dog amoxicillin?

Before you give your dog amoxicillin, there are a few things you should consider:

• Tell your vet about any other medications or supplements your dog is receiving. Some active ingredients can interact unfavorably with amoxicillin.
• Tell your vet about any pre-existing conditions or allergies your dog has. Some dogs cannot tolerate amoxicillin or need a lower dose.
• Store amoxicillin in a cool, dry place away from light. Do not use the antibiotic beyond the expiry date.
• Follow your vet's instructions and follow the dosage and duration of treatment exactly. Never give your dog more or less amoxicillin than prescribed.
• Monitor your dog for possible side effects during treatment with amoxicillin and contact your vet if you notice anything unusual.