Marbofloxacin
General Drug Information and Indications
Fluoroquinolone (Marboquin) for susceptible bacterial infections in dogs, cats, and horses; respiratory and urinary tract infections.
Fluoroquinolone antibiotic (marbofloxacin). Mechanism: inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase (topoisomerase II) and topoisomerase IV → prevents DNA replication and transcription (bactericidal). Concentration-dependent killing with post-antibiotic effect. Broad-spectrum; excellent tissue penetration. Developed specifically for veterinary use.
Key information
Fluoroquinolone. Do NOT use in growing animals. Store at room temperature. Fewer CYP450 interactions than enrofloxacin. Monitor in renal impairment.
How to Give this Medication
Oral tablets: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. Separate from antacids and divalent cations by 2 hrs. Injectable: Administer IV or IM as directed. Infuse IV over 30–60 min. Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
Administer as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule. Never double up doses to make up for a missed one. Complete the full antibiotic course.
Side Effects
GI: vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia. Cartilage toxicity in growing animals. CNS: seizures (rare). Photosensitivity. Generally better tolerated in cats than enrofloxacin (lower retinal toxicity risk). Avoid use in animals <6–8 months.
Precautions
For animals
Avoid in growing animals (cartilage toxicity). Reduce dose or extend interval in renal impairment. Cats: lower retinal toxicity risk than enrofloxacin but avoid high doses. Drug interaction: divalent cations reduce absorption.
For people handling this medication
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Fluoroquinolone — Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. after handling. Photosensitivity possible. Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. Fluoroquinolone overdose causes GI signs and possibly neurological effects.
Marbofloxacin dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MARBOFLOXACIN 50 MG/ML SUSP | 50 MG/ML SUSP | Suspension | 1 | Compound |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)