Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Dog developed brain toxicity and tremors from high-dose metronidazole
By I. Hajek et al.·Published in Veterinární Medicína·2017·Small Animal Referral Centre Sibra, Bratislava, Slovak Republic, CZ·View original on DOAJ →
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Original publication title: Toxic encephalopathy associated with high-dose metronidazole therapy in a dog: a case report
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A mixed breed dog experienced sudden weakness, tremors, and difficulty coordinating movements after being treated with high doses of metronidazole, a medication often used for infections. Despite thorough testing, no other health issues were found, leading the vet to suspect the medication was causing neurotoxicity. The treatment involved stopping the metronidazole and providing supportive care, including fluids and diazepam to help with the symptoms. Fortunately, the dog's condition improved significantly within 72 hours after stopping the medication.
People also search for: dog tremors after medication · metronidazole side effects in dogs · dog ataxia treatment
Abstract
This case report describes an episode of acute ataxia, tremor, vertical nystagmus and progressive weakness in a mixed breed dog treated with high doses of metronidazole. Complete blood cell count, serum biochemistry, coagulation profile, blood pressure measurement, urinalysis, computed tomography of the brain and cerebrospinal fluid examination were unremarkable. Metronidazole had been administered at a dose of 65 mg/kg/day and neurotoxicity was, therefore, suspected. Drug concentrations in the patient's serum and cerebrospinal fluid were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography and compared to control dogs. Metronidazole administration was immediately discontinued; supportive care consisted of fluid therapy and diazepam treatment. The neurological status of the patient improved rapidly within 72 h. The aim of this case report is to describe the clinical presentation of metronidazole intoxication in a mixed breed dog and to interpret the chromatographic analysis which can be a beneficial diagnostic and screening tool in dogs intoxicated with metronidazole.
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Search related cases →Original publication on DOAJ: https://doi.org/10.17221/264/2015-VETMED