Itraconazole

(it-ruh-kon-uh-zohl)

Other names for this medication: Itrafungol, Sporanox, Tolsura

Itraconazole is used to treat fungal infections.

•The type of formulation and species of your animal determines whether it should be given with food.

‐Capsules should be given with a meal.

‐Oral solutions may be given to cats with or without food but should be given to dogs on an empty stomach.

•Common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite.

•Contact your veterinarian if you notice a complete loss of appetite, skin ulcers, leg swelling, or yellowing of skin, gums, or whites of the eyes (jaundice).

Description

•Azole antifungal

•Available as capsules and oral liquids

Uses

FDA-approved uses in animals:

•Treatment of ringworm in cats

At the discretion of your veterinarian, this medication may be used in different species or for other reasons (extra-label use), such as:

•Treatment of ringworm in dogs

•Treatment of other fungal diseases in dogs, cats, and other species

Before this medication is given

No medication is 100% safe in all patients. Discuss with your veterinarian:

•Any other medications or supplements your animal is taking. This medication can interact with many other drugs.

•Any conditions or diseases your animal currently has or has had in the past

•Any side effects your animal has had to medications in the past

•The risks of using this medication if your animal is pregnant or nursing

Warnings for animals

Do not use:

•In animals that are allergic to it or other azole antifungals, such as fluconazole or ketoconazole

Use with caution in animals:

•With liver, kidney, or heart disease

•That are pregnant or nursing

Certain medications are not allowed in some animal competitions. Check rules and regulations when your animal is taking a medication.

Warnings for humans

•Wash your hands after handling any medication.

How do I give this medication?

•Give capsules with a meal.

•Oral solutions may be given to cats with or without food .

•Give oral solutions to dogs on an empty stomach.

•Measure liquids using the syringe that came with the prescription. Do not use household measuring devices.

•When using the oral solution approved for cats, keep the bottle upright when measuring a dose. Rinse and dry the syringe after each use.

Give exactly as your veterinarian has prescribed. Always follow the instructions on the prescription label.

Side effects

Common – contact your veterinarian if any of these signs are severe, continue to occur, or worsen over time:

•Vomiting

•Diarrhea

•Decreased appetite

•Drooling

Severe – stop the medication and contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of these signs:

•Complete loss of appetite

•Yellowing of the skin, eyes, or gums (jaundice)

•Skin ulcers, sores, or rashes

•Leg swelling

How will I know it's working?

•This medication should start working after several doses. You should see a gradual improvement in your animal’s signs as the medication becomes fully effective.

Contact your veterinary clinic if your animal’s signs worsen or do not improve.

How long will the medication effects last?

•The effect of this medication may last for a few days after the last dose.

•It may last longer if your animal has reduced liver function.

How long do I give it for?

This medication can be given for different lengths of time. Give it for as long as your veterinarian tells you. You may need to refill the prescription.

•It is important to finish the entire course of treatment, even if your animal starts feeling better.

Overdose

Overdose may cause damage to the liver. Signs of an overdose may include loss of appetite, vomiting, tender abdomen, weakness, and yellowing of the skin, eyes, or gums.

If you witness or suspect an overdose, call your veterinarian or an animal-specific poison control center (consultation fee applies):

•ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435

•Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Have the product or label with you if possible.

Missed dose

In most cases, if you miss a dose:

•Give it when you remember, then return to the regular dosing schedule.

If it is close to the time for the next dose:

•Skip the missed dose.

•Give the next dose at the next scheduled time.

•Continue the regular dosing schedule.

If you are unsure, call your veterinary clinic. Do not double-up doses or give extra doses.

Storage

•Store in the original container at room temperature.

•Keep out of reach of children and animals.

Disposal

Do not flush this medication down the toilet or wash it down the sink. Options for disposing of unused or expired medications include:

•Drug take-back sites: This is preferred whenever possible. To find a site near you, contact your local law enforcement or waste management authorities.

•Home disposal: Mix the medication in with coffee grounds or kitty litter, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away in the trash.

Do not save leftover medication or give it to others to use.