CefpodoximeDose, contraindications and adverse effects for Cats, Dogs and Horses.

Third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic; a beta-lactam that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis. In dogs, cefpodoxime is labeled for the treatment of skin infections caused by susceptible strains of Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus canis, Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, and Pasteurella multocida. Although not currently FDA approved for use in cats, cefpodoxime may be useful in this species. Cefpodoxime can be used to treat UTIs in dogs and cats.

Like other cephalosporins, cefpodoxime binds penicillin-binding proteins, inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis and resulting in bacterial cell lysis. It is considered a time-dependent bactericidal antibiotic that is relatively resistant to bacterial beta lactamases. Cefpodoxime is characterized as a third-generation cephalosporin.

Cefpodoxime is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to it or to other beta-lactam antibiotics (eg, penicillins, other cephalosporins). Because cefpodoxime is excreted by the kidneys, doses and/or dose frequency may need to be adjusted in patients with significantly diminished renal function. However, there is limited guidance regarding when and how to reduce doses. In humans, cefpodoxime should be used with caution in patients with seizure disorders

The most likely adverse effects in dogs include inappetence, diarrhea, vomiting, and lethargy. Hypersensitivity and pemphigus-like drug reactions are rare but possible. Rarely, blood dyscrasias may be seen following high doses of cephalosporins.

■ Clinical efficacy ■ Adverse effects