Ceftriaxone, marketed under the brand name Rocephin, is used in dogs for treating serious bacterial infections. Although Rocephin is only approved for use in humans by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, veterinarians are able to use it for their patients as an "extra-label" pharmaceutical. It's available only in injectable form.
Rocephin and Bacterial Infections
Your vet won't give your dog shots of Rocephin for minor infections, but if he's severely ill, the drug might turn the tide. Rocephin aids in treating respiratory and urinary tract infections, along with those involving the skin, blood, bones and joints. Because it crosses the blood-brain barrier, it can help dogs diagnosed with meningitis. Side effects include diarrhea and vomiting. After the injection or intravenous administration, your vet might prescribe cephalosporin, a similar antibiotic, for your dog to take at home in pill form.
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Writer Bio
Jane Meggitt has been a writer for more than 20 years. In addition to reporting for a major newspaper chain, she has been published in "Horse News," "Suburban Classic," "Hoof Beats," "Equine Journal" and other publications. She has a Bachelor of Arts in English from New York University and an Associate of Arts from the American Academy of Dramatics Arts, New York City.