Cefpodoxime Dosage Chart for Dogs: Risks, Side Effects, Dosage, and More

Has your veterinarian prescribed Cefpodoxime for your dog with a bacterial infection? You likely have a variety of questions about this popular medication and how it works, so let’s break down everything you need to know!

What Is Cefpodoxime?

Cefpodoxime, or Simplicef, is a cephalosporin antibiotic that is designed to treat a variety of bacterial infections. Cefpodoxime is most commonly used to target Pasteurella and Staphylococcus bacteria, Streptococcus canis, and E. coli. While it has a variety of uses in humans, it is typically prescribed to treat skin and urinary infections in dogs.

Is Cefpodoxime Safe For Dogs?

Cefpodoxime is safe for use in dogs when following your veterinarian’s guidance. It is also only safe in the dose and form that your veterinarian prescribes, as human forms of Cefpodoxime could contain higher concentrations than your pup requires. The only form of Cefpodoxime that is safe for your dog is the form that comes from your vet’s office.

Why Do Dogs Take Cefpodoxime?

Cefpodoxime can be used to treat a variety of bacterial infections in dogs, but it is most commonly used for skin and urinary infections. Let’s list some of the most common reasons why vet’s prescribe Cefpodoxime for dogs below.

• Bacterial skin infections, widespread or localized hot spots
• Infected wounds on the skin
• Urinary tract infections
• Upper respiratory infections
• Pneumonia, often used alongside other antibiotics

Dr. Amy Nicole Lewis, a veterinarian with Worldwide Veterinary Services told A-Z Animals that Simplicef (Cefpodoxime) is often the go-to antibiotic for bacterial skin infections in dogs due to its effectiveness against Pasteurella and Staphylococcus bacteria, as they are the most common culprits seen with canine skin infections.

How Do I Give Cefpodoxime To My Dog?

Veterinarians can prescribe Cefpodoxime to your dog in pill or liquid form. You will typically be advised to offer it to your pup once daily with a meal, as Cefpodoxime can be irritating to the stomach if it is given without a meal. The best way to avoid any nausea is by offering your dog their dose of Cefpodoxime with either breakfast or dinner.

Just remember that you should only give your dog Cefpodoxime that comes from your vet’s office.

What Is The Dose Of Cefpodoxime In Dogs?

Before we offer the standard dose of Cefpodoxime (Simplicef) for dogs, we should mention again that you should never give your dog Cefpodoxime without your vet’s approval. With that in mind, there is a standard Cefpodoxime dose that vets typically follow.

The dose of Cefpodoxime for dogs is typically 2.3 to 4.5 mg per pound of body weight based on the type and severity of infection your dog has. It is usually prescribed for a period of 5 to 7 days, but it can be given for up to 10 days if needed. Your vet will likely prescribe a different antibiotic if the infection has not cleared within 10 days of taking Simplicef.

Does Cefpodoxime Have Any Side Effects In Dogs?

Cefpodoxime is a generally safe mediation used to treat bacterial infections in dogs, but just like any other medication, it can lead to a few minor side effects. Some of the most common side effects seen with Cefpodoxime (Simplicef) use in dogs include:

• Nausea
• Drooling
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Decreased appetite
• Lethargy

Side effects like nausea and vomiting can typically be reduced by offering your dog their daily dose of Cefpodoxime with a meal. We suggest reaching out to your vet if your dog is still experiencing GI upset when their dose of Cefpodoxime is offered with food. Your vet may be able to prescribe a medication to manage their nausea until they complete their course of antibiotics.

Are There Any Risks With Cefpodoxime Use In Dogs?

Cefpodoxime is generally safe for dogs when following your vet’s recommended dosing, but there are a couple risks you should be aware of. The first risk to be aware of is the potential for allergic reaction. While this is rare, some dogs can develop an allergic reaction within the first 24 to 72 hours of taking the medication. We suggest being on the lookout for symptoms such as skin redness, itching, facial swelling, hives, or respiratory changes. Always reach out to your vet ASAP if you think your dog is experiencing an allergic reaction.

We also recommend letting your vet know if your dog has any history of seizures if they have been prescribed Cefpodoxime. While this has not been studied enough in the veterinary space to know if it is a true risk in dogs, but we do know that people with seizure disorders should not take Cefpodoxime.

How Do I Get Cefpodoxime For My Dog?

Cefpodoxime or Simplicef is a common antibiotic used to treat simple bacterial infections in dogs. It is highly effective and comes with few risks, which is why it is one of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics in the veterinary space. We suggest reaching out to your vet if you think your canine friend can benefit from the use of Cefpodoxime!