Sulfadiazine
AntibioticsA sulfonamide antibiotic that acts as an analog of para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), competitively inhibiting dihydropteroate synthase, thereby halting bacterial folic-acid synthesis. Bacteriostatic, and synergistic with trimethoprim.
Pharmacological information
A class-level scientific overview for general reference — no doses. The ultimate reference is always the locally approved product leaflet and consultation with a veterinarian.
Mechanism of action
A sulfonamide antibiotic that acts as an analog of para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), competitively inhibiting dihydropteroate synthase, thereby halting bacterial folic-acid synthesis. Bacteriostatic, and synergistic with trimethoprim.
Indications
- Urinary, respiratory, and gastrointestinal infections caused by susceptible bacteria (often combined with trimethoprim)
- Some protozoa (such as coccidia), depending on the case
Contraindications & warnings
- Hypersensitivity to sulfonamides
- Risk of crystal deposition in the kidneys with dehydration or acidic urine — ensure adequate hydration
- May be associated with dry eye in dogs; caution in hepatic impairment
Drug interactions
- Synergy with trimethoprim
- May displace other highly plasma-protein-bound drugs, increasing their effect
Prudent use of antibiotics
Prescribed based on diagnosis and susceptibility testing where possible, to limit antibiotic resistance.
Withdrawal periods
| Species | Meat | Milk | Eggs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cattle | 12 days | 2 days | — |
| Horses | — | — | — |
| Species | Meat | Milk | Eggs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horses | — | — | — |
| Species | Meat | Milk | Eggs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cattle | 12 days | 2 days | — |
| Species | Meat | Milk | Eggs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cattle | 28 days | — | — |
Recorded adverse effects
openFDA veterinary reports — the numbers are report counts, not a severity rate.
Related products
Sources
- •Withdrawal periods: UK Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD).
- •European Medicines Agency (EMA) — Veterinary medicines
- •Merck Veterinary Manual — Pharmacology
- •World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) — Prudent use of antimicrobials
- •Always verify the locally approved leaflet and consult a veterinarian.