Tylosin

(tye-loe-sin)

Other names for this medication: Tylan

•Tylosin is an antibiotic used to treat some bacterial infections and intestinal inflammation.

•May be given with or without food. Giving with food may help prevent stomach upset.

•This powder has a bitter taste. Placing the dose of powder in an empty capsule may make it easier to give to your animal.

•Common side effects include diarrhea or decreased appetite.

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

•Wear gloves and wash your hands after handling the powder because it may cause a skin rash. Avoid breathing in the powder or getting it near your eyes because it can be irritating.

•Do not give to rabbits, guinea pigs, rodents, or other pocket pets. Tylosin can be harmful or fatal in these animals.

Description

•Macrolide antibiotic

•Available as a powder

Uses

This medication is FDA-approved for use in a variety of species, but not specifically for dogs and cats. At the discretion of your veterinarian, it may be used extra-label in dogs and cats for:

•Treatment of some bacterial infections

•Treatment of diarrhea and inflammatory bowel disease

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

•Any conditions or diseases your animal currently has now 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 allergic to it or antibiotics like it, such as erythromycin or azithromycin

•In rabbits, guinea pigs, rodents, or other pocket pets. Tylosin can be harmful or fatal in these animals.

Use with caution:

•In animals that are taking digoxin

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

Warnings for humans

•Wear gloves and wash hands after handling tylosin. Contact with human skin may lead to a rash.

•Avoid breathing in tylosin powder, as it may cause breathing difficulties.

•Tylosin powder may cause eye irritation.

How do I give this medication?

•Give with or without food. Giving with food may help prevent stomach upset.

•Tylosin powder has an extremely bitter taste. Placing the dose of powder in an empty capsule or cold butter may help disguise the taste and make it easier to give. Ask your veterinarian about these options.

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:

•Loose stools or diarrhea

•Decreased appetite

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

•Bloody diarrhea

•Fever, rashes, or trouble breathing. These may be signs of a medication allergy.

How will I know it's working?

•Your animal should start feeling better within 1 to 2 days.

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

How long will the medication effects last?

•This medication will stop working within 24 hours of the last dose.

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

Tylosin is relatively safe in most overdose situations, but 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 in a dry place.

•Keep lids tightly closed to protect from moisture.

•Keep out of reach of children and animals.

Disposal

Do not flush this medication down the toilet or wash down the sink. This medication is very harmful to aquatic life. 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.