Marbofloxacin

What is marbofloxacin?

Marbofloxacin (brand names: Zeniquin®, Aristos®, Boflox®, Forcyl®, Kelacyl®, Marbocyl®, Aurizon®) is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, especially those in the bladder, kidneys, prostate, or skin. It has also been used in dogs to treat leishmaniasis and in cats to treat tuberculosis and hemoplasmosis. 

While use in dogs and cats for some conditions is on label, other uses in cats, dogs, birds, rabbits, and reptiles to treat certain infections is off label (extra label). Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. 

“Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label. 

How is marbofloxacin given?

• Marbofloxacin is given by mouth in the form of a tablet. It may also be compounded into a liquid suspension.
• Shake the liquid well and measure the dose carefully.
• It is best given without food, but if vomiting occurs when dosed on an empty stomach, give future doses with food.
• Do not give with dairy products or anything containing calcium, iron, or aluminum.
• Do not give to growing pets.
• Do not allow humans to take this medication.
• Avoid skin and eye contact; wash hands immediately after dosing.

This medication will take effect quickly, in about 1 to 2 hours, but visible effects may take a few days to be noticed.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects?

Marbofloxacin may cause the following side effects:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lack of appetite

Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving marbofloxacin and contact your veterinarian immediately:

• Cartilage abnormalities (that may cause walking difficulties)
• Prolonged lack of appetite
• Incoordination
• Seizures
• Depression
• Fever
• Skin rashes
• Trouble breathing
• Blindness and eye damage in cats (at high doses)

This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE marbofloxacin in:

• Pets that are allergic to it or other quinolones
• Small- and medium-breed dogs before 8 months of age
• Large-breed dogs before 12 months of age
• Giant-breed dogs before 18 months of age
• Cats before 12 months of age

USE WITH CAUTION in pets that:

• Have seizures
• Have liver or kidney problems
• Are dehydrated
• Are pregnant or lactating animals (safe use has not been established)

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Several medications should be used with caution when given with marbofloxacin, including:

• Antacids
• Cyclosporine
• Flunixin
• Iron
• Methotrexate
• Nitrofurantoin
• Other antibiotics
• Probenecid
• Quinidine
• Sucralfate
• Theophylline
• Warfarin
• Zinc

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store marbofloxacin?

• Store the tablets at room temperature, below 86°F (30°C).
• Store liquid forms in the refrigerator unless otherwise directed on the bottle.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms.