Sulfadimethoxine, known commercially as Albon, is in the sulfonamide class of antibiotics. It's a cost-effective weapon against bacterial infections in a wide variety of animals, including your pooch. If Duke has coccidia, chances are the vet will choose sulfadimethoxine to take on the parasite. Side effects are rare, but the medication is not for every dog.
Sulfadimethoxine: A Versatile Antibiotic
Sulfadimethoxine is popular among vets because it's effective at treating respiratory infections, gastrointestinal infections and more. Available as a tablet or oral suspension, it's easy to administer to a dog. Sulfadimethoxine is among the highly absorbed sulfa drugs and is long acting, requiring a low dosage.
A Few Cautions
Though sulfadimethoxine is versatile and effective, it has its caveats. The vet will choose a different antibiotic if your pup has kidney or bladder stones or kidney or liver problems. Pregnant, nursing or dehydrated dogs also shouldn't take sulfadimethoxine. Sulfadimethoxine also interacts with thiazides, a type of diuretic, increasing their toxicity, so let your vet know exactly what medication Duke is taking. Side effects are rare, but you should know what they are. Urine crystals or stones can develop, particularly with long-term use. If your pup is sensitive to the sulfa class of antibiotics, muscle soreness, fever, arthritis, and kidney and eye inflammation are potential issues. Some sulfa drugs affect the ability to produce tears, so if Duke has dry eye, he should avoid sulfadimethoxine.