Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBP), providing broad-spectrum bactericidal activity against gram-positive and gram-negative organisms
At a glance
Class
Third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic
Storage
Below 25°C, protect from light; reconstituted solution stable 24h at room temp
Dosing
Severe bacterial infections (septicemia, pneumonia, UTI)
Max dose
2000 mg/dose; 4000 mg/day
Duration: 5–14 days
Severe bacterial infections
Max dose
500 mg/dose; 1000 mg/day
Duration: 5–14 days
Safety
Absolute contraindications — do not use
Adverse effects
Common
Pain at injection site
Mild GI upset
Diarrhea
Serious
Anaphylaxis
Pseudomembranous colitis
Biliary sludging
CBCHepatic functionRenal functionSigns of superinfection
Interactions
No documented interactions.
Brands
International
Convenia (cefovecin related)
Zoetis
India
Monocef
Aristo Pharmaceuticals
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Ceftriaxone?
Ceftriaxone is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used in pets. Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBP), providing broad-spectrum bactericidal activity against gram-positive and gram-negative organisms
›What is Ceftriaxone used for in pets?
Ceftriaxone is used in veterinary medicine for: Severe bacterial infections (septicemia, pneumonia, UTI); Severe bacterial infections.
›What is the Ceftriaxone dose for dogs?
For dogs, Ceftriaxone is typically dosed as follows — Severe bacterial infections (septicemia, pneumonia, UTI): 15–50 mg/kg IV/IM/SC SID to BID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Ceftriaxone dose for cats?
For cats, Ceftriaxone is typically dosed as follows — Severe bacterial infections: 15–50 mg/kg IV/IM/SC SID to BID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Ceftriaxone?
Common: Pain at injection site, Mild GI upset, Diarrhea. Serious (call your vet immediately): Anaphylaxis, Pseudomembranous colitis, Biliary sludging.
›Does Ceftriaxone need a prescription?
Yes. Ceftriaxone is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
›When should Ceftriaxone not be used?
Do not use Ceftriaxone if: Known hypersensitivity to cephalosporins or penicillins.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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