5-nitroimidazole derivative that is reduced intracellularly by microbial ferredoxin-linked enzymes, generating toxic radical species that damage microbial DNA. Longer half-life than metronidazole allowing single-dose therapy.
At a glance
Class
Nitroimidazole Antiprotozoal
Storage
Store at room temperature below 30°C
Dosing
Longer half-life than metronidazole; used for giardiasis and trichomoniasis
Frequency
Once or q24h x 3 days
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 →Safety
Neurological signs with prolonged useLiver enzymes
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 →Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Secnidazole?
Secnidazole is a nitroimidazole antiprotozoal used in pets. 5-nitroimidazole derivative that is reduced intracellularly by microbial ferredoxin-linked enzymes, generating toxic radical species that damage microbial DNA. Longer half-life than metronidazole allowing single-dose therapy.
›What is Secnidazole used for in pets?
Secnidazole is used in veterinary medicine for: Longer half-life than metronidazole; used for giardiasis and trichomoniasis; Limited veterinary data.
›What is the Secnidazole dose for dogs?
For dogs, Secnidazole is typically dosed as follows — Longer half-life than metronidazole; used for giardiasis and trichomoniasis: 25 mg/kg PO Once or q24h x 3 days. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Secnidazole dose for cats?
For cats, Secnidazole is typically dosed as follows — Limited veterinary data: 25 mg/kg PO Once. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Secnidazole need a prescription?
Yes. Secnidazole is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
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 →References
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database