Ketoconazole is an oral antifungal medication indicated for treating fungal and yeast infections in dogs.

INDICATIONS

• Skin and Ear Infections Malassezia dermatitis (yeast infections) and dermatophytosis (ringworm) are common conditions treated with ketoconazole.
• Systemic Fungal Infections It is used for more serious, potentially life-threatening infections that affect internal organs (lungs, bone, etc.), such as blastomycosis, coccidioidomycosis (Valley Fever), histoplasmosis, and cryptococcosis.
• Cushing’s Disease (Hyperadrenocorticism) Ketoconazole can inhibit the adrenal gland’s production of cortisol, making it a viable option for managing this condition in dogs, though it is used as an alternative treatment.
• Adjunct Therapy It may be used to slow down the metabolism of other expensive drugs, like cyclosporine, allowing for a lower, more cost-effective dose of the primary medication.

ADMINISTRATION

• Oral Administration The medication is given by mouth in tablet form. Liquid formulations may also be available.
• With Food It is crucial to administer the tablets with a meal, preferably a fatty food (e.g., cheese or a small amount of butter), to increase absorption and reduce stomach upset, nausea, and vomiting.
• Dosage and Duration Dosage and frequency depend on the condition treated, and determined by the pet’s weight. Treatment is often long-term (several weeks to months) and must be completed entirely to prevent recurrence or resistance.