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Azithromycin
What is azithromycin?
Azithromycin (brand name Zithromax® or Zmax®) is a broad spectrum antibiotic used for a variety of infections. It is often combined with other drugs to treat specific infections (e.g., combined with atovaquone to treat babesiosis in dogs). Azithromycin may also have anti-inflammatory, immune-modulating, and gastrointestinal motility effects.
In cats, it is used off-label to treat upper respiratory infections, bartonellosis, cryptosporidiosis, or toxoplasmosis, and in combination with atovaquone to treat cytauxzoonosis. In dogs, it is used off-label to treat cryptosporidiosis, and in combination with atovaquone to treat babesia. It is also used for certain infections in horses, cattle, rabbits, guinea pigs, and birds.
Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully, as their directions may be significantly different from those on the label.
How do I give azithromycin to my pet?
This medication should take effect within one to two hours; however, effects may not be noted outwardly.
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then wait the recommended time for the next dose, as prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not give the pet two doses at once.
Azithromycin may cause the following side effects:
If gastrointestinal side effects occur in rabbits, rodents, or horses, stop this medication and contact your veterinarian. In dogs and cats, contact your veterinarian if gastrointestinal side effects continue for multiple days or become severe.
Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.
DO NOT USE azithromycin in animals that:
USE WITH CAUTION in animals that:
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any treatment.
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms.
© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Last updated on May 27, 2025.
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