Drug Name

Simplicef (Cefpodoxime)

Drug Uses

Simplicef tablets are indicated for the treatment of skin infections (wounds and abscesses) in dogs caused by susceptible strains of:

• Staphylococcus intermedius;
• Staphylococcus aureus;
• Streptococcus canis (group G, hemolytic);
• Escherichia coli;
• Pasteurella multocida, and Proteus mirabilis.

How Taken

• The dose range of Simplicef (cefpodoxime proxetil) tablets is 5-10 mg/kg (2.3-4.5 mg/lb) body weight, administered orally, once a day. The dose may be given with or without food. The determination of dosage for any particular patient must take into consideration such factors as the severity and nature of the infection, the susceptibility of the causative organisms, and the integrity of the patient's host-defense mechanisms. Obtain a sample of the pathogenic organism for culture and sensitivity testing prior to beginning antimicrobial therapy. Once results become available, continue with appropriate therapy.

Simplicef tablets should be administered once daily for 5-7 days or for 2-3 days beyond the cessation of clinical signs, up to a maximum of 28 days. Treatment of acute infections should not be continued for more than 3-4 days if no response to therapy is seen.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Simplicef is an orally administered, extended spectrum, semi-synthetic cephalosporin antibiotic.

Missed Dose

If you miss to give a dose of Simplicef, give it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your pet to take the next dose, skip the dose and go back to the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store Simplicef between 39 and 86 degrees F (4 and 30 degrees C). Keep Simplicef out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings/Precautions

• Not for human use. Keep this and all drugs out of reach of children. Antimicrobial drugs, including penicillins and cephalosporins, can cause allergic reactions in sensitized individuals.
• To minimize the possibility of allergic reactions, those handling such antimicrobials, including Simplicef, are advised to avoid direct contact of the product with the skin and mucous membranes.

Possible Side Effects

• Stop giving Simplicef and seek emergency veterinary medical care in the event of an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; hives; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; rash or fainting), severe nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, mucous or blood in the stool, and unusual bleeding or bruising. Other, less serious side effects such as mild nausea or diarrhea or yeast infection may be more likely to occur.
• Continue to give Simplicef and notify your veterinarian if these symptoms occur.

Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to the animal.

More Information

Before giving Simplicef, tell your veterinarian if your pet is being given another antibiotic (for the same or a different infection), probenecid, a loop diuretic such as furosemide, or warfarin. You may need to have the dosage adjusted. Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Simplicef. Talk to your veterinarian or pharmacist before giving any prescription or OTC medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.