Second-generation nitroimidazole with longer half-life than metronidazole. Intracellular reduction generates reactive metabolites that damage protozoal and anaerobic bacterial DNA. Active against Giardia, Trichomonas, Entamoeba, and anaerobes.
At a glance
Class
Nitroimidazole Antiprotozoal / Antibacterial
Storage
Store at room temperature below 30°C, protect from light
Dosing
Longer half-life than metronidazole allows once-daily dosing
Frequency
q24h or q12h depending on indication
Alternative to metronidazole for giardiasis and anaerobic infections
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 statusCBC with prolonged useFecal exam post-treatment
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 Tinidazole?
Tinidazole is a nitroimidazole antiprotozoal / antibacterial used in pets. Second-generation nitroimidazole with longer half-life than metronidazole. Intracellular reduction generates reactive metabolites that damage protozoal and anaerobic bacterial DNA. Active against Giardia, Trichomonas, Entamoeba, and anaerobes.
›What is Tinidazole used for in pets?
Tinidazole is used in veterinary medicine for: Longer half-life than metronidazole allows once-daily dosing; Alternative to metronidazole for giardiasis and anaerobic infections.
›What is the Tinidazole dose for dogs?
For dogs, Tinidazole is typically dosed as follows — Longer half-life than metronidazole allows once-daily dosing: 15–20 mg/kg PO q24h or q12h depending on indication. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Tinidazole dose for cats?
For cats, Tinidazole is typically dosed as follows — Alternative to metronidazole for giardiasis and anaerobic infections: 30 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Tinidazole need a prescription?
Yes. Tinidazole 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