Aspergillus fungi shed microscopic spores that float in the air which animals and humans can and will inhale these frequently. Fortunately, through defense mechanisms built into our bodies normally we can prevent an infection. However, if Aspergillus spores, called “conidia” escape these mechanisms and begin to grow, they become more difficult for the body to remove. Strains such as fumigatus and tereus commonly affect canine nasal passages and disseminated aspergillosis, respectively. German shepherd dogs seem to be predisposed to this type of dissemination.
Itraconazole absorption is highly dependent on presence of food and gastic pH (Plumb, 2002). Itraconazole has a lower incidence of side effects compared with other medications in the same class. Disseminating aspergillosis can be difficult to treat unless treated for long periods of time with itraconazole and amphotericin B. Amphotericin B does have an elevated risk of kidney damage which may scare some veterinarians. Side effect profile for itraconazole includes nausea, decreased appetite, vomiting and potential liver damage.
Weight based dosing of capsules and suspensions can be made to tailor the strength to the animal. Pharmacy Solutions can flavor tailor made suspensions for animals since the commercial product is only available for human palate in cherry flavor. Pharmacy Solutions can tailor a more suitable flavor that can ease the burden on vet owner.
Dosing: 5-10mg/kg by mouth daily. Plumb, D.C. (2002). “Itraconazole” Plumb’s Veterinary Drug Handbook. 4th ed. White Bear Lake, MN: PharmaVet. Pg 451-453.
Weight based dosing of capsules and suspensions can be made to tailor the strength to the animal. Pharmacy Solutions can flavor tailor made suspensions for animals since the commercial product is only available for human palate in cherry flavor. Pharmacy Solutions can tailor a more suitable flavor that can ease the burden on vet owner.
Dosing: 5-10mg/kg by mouth daily. Plumb, D.C. (2002). “Itraconazole” Plumb’s Veterinary Drug Handbook. 4th ed. White Bear Lake, MN: PharmaVet. Pg 451-453.