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
Safety
Neurological statusCBC with prolonged useFecal exam post-treatment
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.
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 →