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Paromomycin

Prescription
Aminoglycoside Antibiotic (Oral)
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Aminoglycoside antibiotic poorly absorbed from GI tract, providing luminal antimicrobial activity against intestinal protozoa and bacteria. Binds 30S ribosomal subunit causing protein synthesis errors. Active against Giardia, Cryptosporidium, and Entamoeba.

At a glance

Class
Aminoglycoside Antibiotic (Oral)
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature below 25°C

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for giardiasis refractory to metronidazole/fenbendazole, and cryptosporidio
Dose
25–30 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q12–24h
🐈

Cat

Used for feline cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis
Dose
125–165 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q12h

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength
Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature below 25°C

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Fecal exam post-treatmentRenal function if GI barrier compromisedClinical improvement

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Humatin

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Paromomycin?
Paromomycin is a aminoglycoside antibiotic (oral) used in pets. Aminoglycoside antibiotic poorly absorbed from GI tract, providing luminal antimicrobial activity against intestinal protozoa and bacteria. Binds 30S ribosomal subunit causing protein synthesis errors. Active against Giardia, Cryptosporidium, and Entamoeba.
What is Paromomycin used for in pets?
Paromomycin is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for giardiasis refractory to metronidazole/fenbendazole, and cryptosporidio; Used for feline cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis.
What is the Paromomycin dose for dogs?
For dogs, Paromomycin is typically dosed as follows — Used for giardiasis refractory to metronidazole/fenbendazole, and cryptosporidio: 25–30 mg/kg PO q12–24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Paromomycin dose for cats?
For cats, Paromomycin is typically dosed as follows — Used for feline cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis: 125–165 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Paromomycin need a prescription?
Yes. Paromomycin is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

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. Find a vet near you →

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Tobramycin
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