Antirobe for Dogs

Antirobe, a brand name of the drug clindamycin, is an antibiotic that combats several types of bacterial infections in dogs. Some dogs should not receive Antirobe; some who can receive it may experience side effects. It is approved by the FDA and must be prescribed by your veterinarian.

Antirobe prevents protein synthesis in bacteria, slowing their growth and reducing the infection with each generation of bacteria. It is most frequently used to treat periodontal disease, but it is effective against gram-positive bacteria, those lacking protective membranes, and some protozoa, like Toxoplasma gondii. Your vet may also prescribe it to treat skin infections such as staphylococcus and Bacteroides fragilis, and bone infections such as Fusobacterium necrophorum and Clostridium perfringens.

Antirobe comes in an oral liquid, a tablet and a capsule. Your veterinarian will give you instructions for dosage; follow them faithfully. For most infections, if there is no response within three to four days, your vet will recommend a different medication. If your dog has a bone infection, treatment will last for at least 28 days.

Antirobe is not right for all dogs. If your dog is allergic to clindamycin or lincomycin, he may have an allergy to antirobe. If your dog has kidney disease, colitis, asthma, liver disease, eczema or skin allergies, be sure to tell your vet, since these may be counterindications for antirobe. This antibiotic has not been tested for safety in pregnant animals, so inform your vet if your dog is pregnant.

Vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite are the most common side effects for Antirobe. If your dog has an allergic reaction, especially if he has difficulty breathing, blood in the stool, jaundice, dark urine, fever, or blistering or peeling of the skin, contact your vet immediately. These side effects are rare, but they can be serious. Opiates, chloramphenicol, erythromycin and loperamide may have negative reactions if taken at the same time as Antirobe.