Simplicef

What is Simplicef?

Simplicef is a once-a-day antibiotic used to treat skin infections (wounds and abscesses) caused by susceptible strains of bacteria. Simplicef is an antibiotic belonging to a class of drugs called cephalosporins that fight bacteria in the body. Simplicef can be used to treat many different types of infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia as well as ear, skin, and urinary tract infections. It may also be used for purposes other than those listed. Simplicef requires a prescription from your veterinarian, and is sold per tablet.

Suitable for:

Dogs

Benefits:

• FDA-approved for treating canine bacterial skin infections
• Simple once-a-day dosing
• Can be given with or without food
• Comes in a film-coated tablet for easy administration

How does Simplicef work?

Simplicef is effective against most gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Cephalosporin antibiotics suppress the growth of micro-organisms such as bacteria, fungi, or protozoa.

Cautions:

Contact your veterinarian in the event of an allergic reaction (such as shortness of breath, hives, swelling, rash, fainting, vomiting, diarrhea, mucus or blood in the stool, unusual bleeding, or bruising). Do not give Simplicef at the same time as antacids such as Maalox or other stomach acid-reducers, like Tagamet.

Storage:

Store in a cool, dry place

Brand Name:

Simplicef (Zoetis), Vantin (Pharmacia and Upjohn)

Generic Name:

Cefpodoxime proxetil

What is the most important thing I should know about Simplicef?

Simplicef is a prescription medication FDA-approved for use in dogs. Simplicef is available as 100 mg elliptical scored tablets and 200 mg tablets that can either be elliptical, unscored tablets marked 5229 or capsule-shaped, scored tablets marked 5229. The usual dose of Simplicef in dogs is 2.3-4.5 mg/lb, given by mouth, once a day for 5 to 7 days or 2 to 3 days beyond the cessation of clinical signs, up to a maximum of 28 days. Simplicef should be given with food to increase absorption by the body. Give all of the Simplicef that is prescribed for your pet. Symptoms may begin to improve before the infection is completely treated.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Simplicef to my pet?

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has ever had an allergic reaction to another penicillin or to a cephalosporin. Tell your veterinarian if your pet has kidney disease or stomach or intestinal disease. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant or lactating.

How should Simplicef be given?

Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. Simplicef should be given with food to increase absorption in the body. Keep plenty of water available for your pet to drink. Do not give Simplicef at the same time as giving antacids such as Maalox or other stomach acid reducers such as Tagamet as this may decrease the absorption of Simplicef. Give all of the Simplicef even if your pet appears to be better. Symptoms may improve before the infection is completely treated. Store tablets at room temperature away from moisture or heat. 

What are the potential side effects of Simplicef?

Stop giving Simplicef and seek emergency veterinary medical care in the event of an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; hives; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; rash; or fainting), severe nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, mucus or blood in the stool, and unusual bleeding or bruising. Other, less serious side effects such as mild nausea, diarrhea, or yeast infection may be more likely to occur.  Continue to give Simplicef and notify your veterinarian if these symptoms occur. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to your pet.

What happens if I miss giving a dose of Simplicef?

Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not give a double dose unless otherwise directed by your veterinarian.

What happens if I overdose my pet on Simplicef?

Seek emergency veterinary medical treatment if an overdose is suspected. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.

What should I avoid while giving Simplicef to my pet?

Do not give Simplicef at the same time as giving antacids such as Maalox or other stomach acid reducers such as Tagamet.

What other drugs will affect Simplicef?

Before giving Simplicef, tell your veterinarian if your pet is being given another antibiotic (for the same or a different infection), probenecid, a loop diuretic such as furosemide, or warfarin. You may need to have the dosage adjusted. Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Simplicef. Talk to your veterinarian or pharmacist before giving any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.