Tylosin

Updated on September 10, 2024

Antibiotic commonly used to treat chronic diarrhea in dogs and cats.

Tylosin

Summary

Used For: Chronic diarrhea, respiratory infections, skin infections

Brands: Tylan

Species:

Dogs cats, rabbits, ferret, avian species, reptiles and other pocket pet or livestock species

Other names: Tylosin hydrochloride, tylosin tartrate

Drug type: Antibiotic

Prescription required: Yes

Pregnancy and lactation: Use with caution in pregnant or lactating animals.

Side effects:

Rare, occasionally decreased or absent appetite and diarrhea if injected, pain and/or inflammation at the injection site may occur. 

General description

Tylosin is an antibiotic used to treat many different health concerns such as chronic diarrhea, certain respiratory and skin infections and occasionally inflimmation in several species. Buy [Tylosin](https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/tylan-oral-granules) now on Petco. A prescription from your veterinarian is required for purchase.

Uses

Chronic diarrhea, *Clostridium perfringens* diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease, colitis, respiratory tract infections, some skin infections.

How it works

Tylosin kills bacteria by inhibiting the production of proteins.

Dosage

*Information provided below outlines what a typical dose might look like. Always consult your veterinarian on the appropriate dose for your specific animal when using any vitamin, supplement, off-label or prescription products. Some vets may prescribe outside of these ranges based on specific needs of the patient. **Dogs**: 10-40 milligrams per kilogram by mouth every 8-12 hours. **Cats**: 10-40 milligrams per kilogram by mouth every 8-12 hours. The medication dosages listed represent the variation in dosing for all underlying medical conditions. Medications should only be administered to pets under the direct guidance of a veterinarian.

Forms

Tylosin is available as an implant, medicated feed premix and solution for the use in large animals. Tylosin is also available as an oral medication, implant,injection, or medicated feed premix and solution for the use in large animals. 1000 milligrams per gram tylosin soluble granules, 1000 milligrams per gram tylosin soluble powder. Tylosin may also be an active ingredient included in implants.

Storage information & handling

Tylosin should be stored at room temperature in an airtight container. See label for injectable or implant formulations. 

What results can I expect?

Assuming that the infection being treated is susceptible to tylosin, resolution of the infection should occur during the treatment period. For the treatment of chronic diarrhea, most animals will show improvement while being treated with tylosin.

Missed Dosage

If a dose is missed, give it as soon as you remember or if the next dose time is coming up soon, skip the missed dose and continue with the next dosage at the scheduled time.

Overdose / acute toxicity

Tylosin is relatively safe and overdoses are generally well tolerated. Vomiting and diarrhea may occur. Contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Hotline if your pet is experiencing abnormal health concerns. 

Side effects

Tylosin is generally well tolerated and side effects are rare. Occasionally, decreased or absent appetite and diarrhea may be seen.

Contraindications

*Do not use in animals with a known hypersensitivity to tylosin.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions are not well established with Tylosin. If your pet is on digoxin for heart failure Tylosin may increase the level of digoxin in your pet's blood levels and should only be used with caution and the support of your veterinarian. Use Tylosin with products listed below with caution and only with the advice of your veterinarian as there may be contraindications similar to erythromycin: **antifungals **cisapride **chloramphenicol **clindamycin **diltiazem **omeprazole **sucralfate **certain chemotherapy agents **cyclosporine **midazolam **alprazolam **Theophylline

Precaution

Prolonged or repeated use of antibiotics may cause the development of resistant bacteria.

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.