Itraconazole
“This page provides important general information for pet owners whose animals have been prescribed Itraconazole for pets in Perth during a consultation by Dr Noor.”
Key Information
Note: This handout is meant to address questions people often ask. It does not include every detail that exists about this medicine. It also does not replace guidance from your veterinary care team.
Description
Itraconazole is a medicine used to treat infections caused by fungus.
Other common names
- Itrafungol
- Sporanox
- Tolsura
Uses
Uses approved for animals:
- Treating ringworm in cats
Your veterinarian may also choose to use it in other animals or for other purposes (this is sometimes called “extra-label use”), such as:
- Treating ringworm in dogs
- Treating other fungal illnesses in dogs, cats, and other animals
Before this medication is given
No medicine is completely safe for every animal. Talk with your veterinarian about:
- Any other medicines or supplements your animal is taking, because this medicine can react with many other drugs
- Any health problems your animal has now or has had before
- Any bad reactions your animal has had to medicines in the past
- The possible risks of using this medicine if your animal is pregnant or nursing
Warnings for animals
Do not use this medicine:
- In animals that have an allergy to itraconazole or to other similar antifungal medicines, such as fluconazole or ketoconazole
Use carefully in animals:
- With liver, kidney, or heart problems
- That are pregnant or nursing
Some animal sports or competitions do not allow certain medicines. If your animal competes, check the rules while your animal is taking this medicine.
Warnings for humans
Wash your hands after you handle any medicine.
How do I give this medication? Itraconazole for pets
Itraconazole is given to treat fungal infections.
Whether you give it with food depends on the form of the medicine and what type of animal you have.
- If you are giving capsules, give them with a meal.
- If you are giving an oral liquid:
- For cats, the liquid can be given with food or without food.
- For dogs, the liquid should be given on an empty stomach.
Give this medicine exactly the way your veterinarian prescribed it. Always follow the directions printed on the prescription label.
For liquid doses:
- Use the dosing syringe that came with the prescription to measure the amount.
- Do not use kitchen spoons or other household measuring tools.
- If you are using the oral liquid that is approved for cats, keep the bottle standing upright while you measure the dose.
- After each use, wash the syringe, then let it dry.
Side effects
Common (call your veterinarian if these problems are strong, keep happening, or get worse):
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Eating less than usual
- Drooling
Severe (stop giving the medicine and contact your veterinarian right away if you notice any of the following):
- Not eating at all
- Yellow color on the skin, the whites of the eyes, or the gums (this is called jaundice)
- Skin ulcers, open sores, or rashes
- Swelling of the legs
How will I know it's working?
This medicine should begin to have an effect after several doses. As it becomes fully effective, you should notice your animal’s signs slowly improving.
Call your veterinary clinic if your animal’s signs get worse or do not get better.
How long will the medication effects last?
- The effects may continue for a few days after the final dose.
- The effects may last longer if your animal’s liver does not work as well.
How long do I give it for?
Your veterinarian may prescribe this medicine for different lengths of time. Keep giving it for the full time your veterinarian instructs. You may need a refill.
It is important to complete the full treatment course, even if your animal seems better.
Overdose
Too much of this medicine may harm the liver. Possible overdose signs include not wanting to eat, vomiting, a painful belly, weakness, and yellowing of the skin, eyes, or gums.
If you see an overdose happen or think it may have happened, contact your veterinarian right away.
If you can, have the medicine container or label with you.
Missed dose
In most situations, if you forget a dose:
- Give the dose as soon as you remember, and then go back to the normal schedule.
If it is almost time for the next dose:
- Do not give the missed dose.
- Give the next dose at the usual scheduled time.
- Continue with the normal schedule.
If you are not sure what to do, call your veterinary clinic. Do not give two doses at once and do not give extra doses.
Storage
- Keep the medicine in its original container at room temperature.
- Store it where children and animals cannot reach it.
Disposal
Do not pour this medicine into a sink and do not flush it down a toilet.
Ways to get rid of unused or expired medicine include:
- Medication take-back locations: This is the best option when available. To find a nearby site, contact local law enforcement or your waste management office.
- Home disposal: Mix the medicine with used coffee grounds or kitty litter. Put the mixture into a sealed plastic bag, then place it in the trash.
Do not keep leftover medicine for later use and do not give it to anyone else.
Questions?
Speak with your veterinarian.
“Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided as general educational material only. Every animal’s health situation is unique, and treatment decisions must be based on a full veterinary assessment. Always follow the specific instructions given during your consultation, and contact the prescribing veterinarian if you have any concerns.”
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