Simplicef is Used to Treat Animals with Skin Infections PRODUCT INFO Simplicef tablets are a semi-synthetic cephalosporin antibiotic cefpodoxime proxetil used to cure infections caused by the susceptible strains of bacteria in dogs. WHAT THIS PRODUCT CURES Simplicef is used to treat animals with skin infections, such as wounds and abscesses caused by the of bacteria susceptible to β-lactam antibiotics (Staphylococus intermedius, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus canis, Escherichia coli, Pasteurella multocida and Proteus mirabilis). PET SYMPTOMS The skin is the protective barrier of the body, but its protective function depends on its integrity. Once the surface of the skin is damaged due to some kind of injury, it becomes more susceptible to various bacterial infections. Dogs are dynamic pets prone to injuries during their everyday activities whether they are playing or fighting. Wounds and cuts on the skin can easily become infected. Such wound is inflamed, red and swollen, often with purulent discharge. In some cases, animals can even get feverish and lethargic. Dogs can often develop a bacterial infection of the skin caused by some other pre-existing condition or predisposing factor. The affected areas of the skin are itchy, swollen and crusted, filled with small raised, pus-filled lesions. Partial loss of hair is quite common in such cases.
PET AILMENTS Skin infections in dogs are often associated with the secondary superficial pyoderma, one of the most common dermatologic conditions in household pets. In dogs, pyoderma is often caused by the Staphylococcus intermedius or Streptoccocus canis. Wounds or abscesses can often lead to skin infections. The damaged surface of the skin provides an entering point for bacteria. Dogs suffering from fungal infections or endocrine diseases (hyperthyroidism) are at higher risk of developing skin infections. Flea bite, food allergies and infestations with external parasites (e.g. Demodex) are also predisposing factors for skin infections. RELATIVE INFO ON BREEDS MOST ASSOCIATED WITH THIS AILMENT All dogs are susceptible to skin infections, but certain types of dogs are predisposed to developing pyoderma. Breeds with a short coat, skin folds (such as bulldogs, sharpie, sphinx cats) and pressure calluses are likely to suffer from skin infections. Higher incidence of pyoderma has been noted in the population of German shepherd dogs. QUESTIONS FOR MY VET 1. What is Simplicef? a) Simplicef is a cephalosporin antibiotic used mostly for treatment of bacterial skin infections in dogs. 2. Is Simplicef safe for my pet? a) Simplicef is generally safe for dogs and rarely causes adverse reactions. However, the safe use of Simplicef tablets in pregnant or lactating bitches and dogs used for breeding has not been determined. 3. My pet is allergic to penicillin. Is it safe to administer Simplicef? a) Do not administer Simplicef do dogs with known allergy to penicillin, Simplicef or any of the other β-lactam antibiotics. 4. What are the signs of an allergic reaction to Simplicef? a) If your dog has difficulties breathing, with hives, rash, diarrhea or vomiting, its face, lips or tongue are swollen; stop giving Simplicef and seek veterinary help immediately.
5. I am allergic to penicillin. Am I allowed to handle Simplicef? a) Yes, but handle Simplicef tablets with extra caution, and avoid direct contact of the product with your skin or mucous membranes. In case of exposure, contact your physician immediately. 6. What side effects are connected with Simplicef administration? a) Simplicef rarely causes side effects, but they are still possible. Stop administering Simplicef tablets and seek veterinary help if our dog has an allergic reaction with hives, difficult breathing, rash, vomiting, diarrhea, blood in stool, unexplained bruising, swollen lips, face or tongue. Less serious side effects include yeast infections, mild diarrhea and nausea. Inform your vet if you notice any of the listed symptoms in your dog. 7. What if my dog suffers an accidental overdose? a) In case of overdose, seek veterinary help as soon as possible. Symptoms of overdose include abdominal cramps, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. 8. What drugs can interact with Simplicef? a) Provide your veterinarian with a list of all prescription or over the counter drugs your dog is taking as well as nutritional supplements and herbal products before starting treatment with Simplicef. Other antibiotics, warfarin, furosemide and probenecid will interact with Simplicef. HOW IT WORKS Active ingredient of Simplicef is cefpodoxime proxetil, a prod rug that gets activated into cefpodoxime in the gastrointestinal tract. Cefpodoxime is a cephalosporin antibiotic from the group of β-lactam antimicrobials. It interferes with the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall, subsequently killing the bacteria. Cefpodoxime if very effective against both Gram positive and Gram negative bacterial, especially E. coli, Staphylococci, Streptococci, Proteus and Pasteurella infections in dogs.
DIRECTIONS FOR USE Simplicef tablets are prescribed by a licensed veterinarian and must be used strictly according to veterinary instructions.to ensure better absorption, Simplicef tablets should be administered with food. The product label contains detailed instructions for use; if you do not understand them, consult with your veterinarian or pharmacist. DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION The usual dose range of Simplicef is between 5 and 10 mg/kg of body weight or 2.3-4.5 mg/lb of body weight. The tablets are administered by mouth once a day. Although the tablets can be given without food, it is advisable to administer them with a meal to help the absorption of the drug in the body. The treatment with Simplicef tablets usually lasts for 5-7 days or at least 2-3 days beyond the cessation of symptoms, depending on the nature and severity of infection. Simplicef tablets should not be administered longer than 28 days in a row. INGREDIENTS Simplicef tablets are available in two strengths: 100 mg tablets contain 100 mg of cefpodoxime equivalent and 200 mg tablets contain 200 mg of cefpodoxime equivalent. PRODUCT CAUTIONS This product is for animal use only. Keep away from children and pets. For oral administration in dogs; do not administer to cats. Do not administer to dogs with known allergy to β-lactam group of antibiotics or cefpodoxime. Individuals with known allergy to penicillin and cephalosporin antibiotics should avoid direct contact of Simplicef with skin and mucous membranes while handling the product. The safe use of Simplicef in pregnant, breeding or lactating animals has not been determined. STORAGE AND DISPOSAL Simplicef tablets should be stored at room temperature between 20 C and 25 C. Securely close the cap after each opening.
BRAND VS. GENERIC COMPARISON Simplicef is manufactured as the name brand, but it can also be sold as the generic product. The generic form, called Cefpodoxime proxetil, can be used in dogs. These products contain the same active ingredient but cost less and can contain more tablets per container. However, the generic forms are not issued by the licensed veterinarian and storage regulations are variable. Name brand has a higher reliance rate and is veterinarian recommended.