Itraconazole

Updated on September 10, 2024

Triazole antifungal medication used to treat many skin and systemic fungal infections in dogs and cats.

Itraconazole

Summary

Used For: Skin and systemic fungal infections

Brands: Sporanox, Intrafungol, Onmel

Species: Dogs and cats

Other names: Itraconazolum, Oriconazole, R-51211

Drug type: Antifungal

Prescription required: Yes

Pregnancy and lactation: Not safe at high doses, use only when benefits outweigh risks

Side effects: Vomiting, loss of appetite, liver toxicity, skin lesions

General description

Itraconazole is a triazole antifungal medication used in veterinary medicine to treat a variety of skin and systemic fungal infections.

Uses

Skin and systemic fungal infections, such as dermatophytosis (ringworm), aspergillosis, cryptococcal meningitis, blastomycosis, coccidioidomycosis, sporotrichosis, histoplasmosis

How it works

Itraconazole alters the cell membranes of susceptible fungal organisms.

Dosage

**Dogs and Cats**: 5-10 milligrams per kilogram of body weight by mouth once daily or divided every 12 hours. Some infections may require dosages of 10-15 milligrams per kilogram of body weight by mouth once daily. Dosages of 10 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day and up are associated with a higher risk of adverse effects.

Forms

Itraconazole is available in an oral liquid in 10 milligrams per milliliter, 100 milligram capsules and 100 milligram tablets.

Storage information & handling

Itraconazole should be stored at room temperature and protected from light and moisture.

What results can I expect?

Fungal infections often require prolonged treatment. Pet parents can expect gradual improvement in their pet’s infection. Side effects are common, especially when higher doses are used.

Missed Dosage

If a dose is missed, continue with the next dosage at the scheduled time.

Overdose / acute toxicity

There is limited information available regarding the acute toxicity of itraconazole. Contact your veterinarian if you suspect your pet has received an overdose of itraconazole.

Side effects

**Dogs:** * Decreased or absent appetite * Liver toxicity (jaundice, etc.) * Vasculitis * Skin lesions (rarely erythema multiforme or toxic epidermal necrolysis) * Limb edema **Cats**: * Gastrointestinal effects (vomiting, decreased or absent appetite, weight loss) * Liver toxicity (jaundice, etc.) * Depression

Contraindications

Avoid use in pets with: * Known hypersensitivity * Liver or kidney impairment * Achlorhydria or hypochlorhydria (absent or low hydrochloric acid in stomach secretions)

Drug interactions

Itraconazole interacts with many drugs. Do not give any other medications without consulting your veterinarian. Itraconazole interacts with: * Amphotericin B * Antacids * Benzodiazepines * Buspirone * Busulfan * Calcium-channel blockers * Cisapride * Colchicine * Corticosteroids * Cyclophosphamide * Cyclosporine * Digoxin * Disopyramide * Ergot alkaloids * Fentanyl * H2 blockers * Ivermectin * Macrolide antibiotics * Methadone * Midazolam * Phenobarbital * Phenytoin * Proton-pump inhibitors * Quinidine * Rifampin * Simvastatin * Sulfonylurea antidiabetic drugs * Tricyclic antidepressants * Vincristine * Vinblastine * Warfarin

Precaution

Use with caution in patients with decreased heart function.

Sources

*Plumb’s Veterinary Drug Handbook*
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Disclaimer

The information contained on this page is for educational purposes only. This medication should only be given under the advice of a veterinarian who has examined your pet under the laws applicable to your state of residence.