Selected Antimicrobial Information – Companion Animal
Minocycline [Companion]
Restriction Status
Unrestricted
Dose
| Species | Usage | Dose |
|---|---|---|
| Cats |
Dosing guidelines in cats are anecdotal | 5mg/kg q12h or 10mg/kg q24h PO (extra-label use) |
| Dogs |
For susceptible pathogens | 5mg/kg q12h or 10mg/kg q24h PO (extra-label use) |
Brand Name(s)
Minocin®
Background
Minocycline is a bacteriostatic, time-dependent tetracycline antibiotic with a broad spectrum of activity against many Gram-positive aerobes, some Gram-negative aerobes, and some anaerobes such as Clostridium perfringens and Clostridium tetani. It is not effective against Proteus spp. or Pseudomonas spp. and acquired resistance is widespread in Enterobacteriaceae. Intracellular organisms are highly susceptible. Distribution is wide, and minocycline crosses into the prostate and non-inflamed meninges. Minocycline is primarily excreted as inactive metabolites in feces and urine.
Acceptable Uses
- Treatment of some Gram-positive aerobes when susceptibility is confirmed by culture/susceptibility testing.
- Treatment of brucellosis.
- As an alternative to doxycycline.
Unacceptable Uses
- Does not achieve therapeutic concentration in urine and is not useful for urinary tract infections.
Formulations Available within the OSU Pharmacy
- Minocycline 100mg capsule
Notes
- Commercially available minocycline dissociates into minocycline and HCl, which can cause a chemical burn resulting in esophagitis in cats and small dogs. Owners should be warned to follow oral minocycline administration with water or a small amount of food to prevent minocycline becoming lodged in the esophagus.
- GI side effects (i.e. vomiting, diarrhea, and/or anorexia) are common in dogs and cats after administration of minocycline.
