Orbifloxacin

What is orbifloxacin?

Orbifloxacin (brand name: Orbax®) is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat certain skin, soft tissue (such as kidney and prostate), respiratory, and urinary tract bacterial infections in pet animals only; it is not used in farmed animals.

While use in dogs and cats is FDA-approved, its use in horses, birds, and rabbits to treat certain bacterial infections is off label (extra label). Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. 

“Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How is orbifloxacin given?

• Orbifloxacin is given by mouth in the form of a tablet or liquid.
• Shake the liquid form well and measure it carefully before dosing.
• It is best given without food, but if vomiting occurs when dosed on an empty stomach, give future doses with a small amount of food.
• Do not give with dairy products or anything containing calcium, iron, or aluminum.
• Avoid skin and eye contact and wash hands immediately after dosing. Do not allow humans to take this medication.
• It is important that your pet completes the antibiotic treatment as directed by your veterinarian, even if your pet appears to feel better. Do not stop giving this medication to your pet unless your veterinarian instructs you to do so.

This medication should take effect quickly within 1 to 2 hours, and while effects may not be noted outwardly, gradual improvements are usually noticeable after a few days.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects?

Orbifloxacin may cause the following side effects:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lack of appetite

Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving orbifloxacin and contact your veterinarian immediately:

• Cartilage abnormalities (that may cause walking difficulties)
• Prolonged lack of appetite
• Incoordination
• Seizures
• Excitability
• Fever
• Skin rashes
• Trouble breathing
• Blindness and eye damage in cats (at higher doses)

Drug sensitivities can develop over time, with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE orbifloxacin in:

• Pets that are allergic to it or other quinolones
• Small- and medium-breed dogs before 8 months of age
• Large-breed dogs before 12 months of age
• Giant-breed dogs before 18 months of age
• Cats before 12 months of age

USE WITH CAUTION in:

• Pets with seizures
• Pets with liver or kidney problems
• Pets that are dehydrated
• Pets that are pregnant or lactating (safe use has not been established)

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

The following medications should be used with caution when given with orbifloxacin:

• Antacids
• Cyclosporine
• Dairy products
• Iron
• Other antibiotics
• Sucralfate
• Theophylline
• Zinc

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store orbifloxacin?

• Store the tablets in the refrigerator or at room temperature, between 36°F and 86°F (2°C and 30°C), protected from moisture.
• Store the liquid suspension upright in the container, between 36°F and 77°F (2°C and 25°C).
• Keep the container out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms.