Orbax (Orbifloxacin)

What is Orbax?

What is Orbax? Orbax is the brand name for the active medicinal ingredient Orbifloxacin. It was developed and is manufactured by Intervet / Schering Plough Animal Health. It is a prescription only antibiotic for canine (dog) and feline (cat) breeds. What is Orbax used for? Orbax antibiotic is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections in both cats and dogs. It is considered a “broad-spectrum” antibiotic; this means it is useful in treating a broad-spectrum of infections. In addition, Orbax is often prescribed for other uses including the treatment of kidney disease and skin disorders. How does Orbax work? Orbax for dogs and Orbax for cats is a fluoroquinolone carboxylic acid derivative. The drug effectively kills the infectious bacterial by stopping the amalgamation of bacterial DNA. Orbax antibiotic rapidly absorbs into the blood system for fast results. It is administered for several consecutive days.

How to use Orbax

Orbax is administered in tablet format, usually one time per day. There are three different strengths available: 5.7 mg (yellow tablet), 22.7mg (green, scored tablet) and 68mg (blue, scored tablet). A veterinarian determines appropriate dosage by the weight of the dog or cat. This medication should be given on an empty stomach, approximately 1-2 hours before eating. As with all medication, it is important to finish the prescription. Pets will need to drink additional water when taking Orbax. Remember, prescriptions should only be given to the prescribed patient, do not give left over Orbax to another pet.

Orbax warnings and precautions

Orbax should not be given to dogs whose legs are still developing or nursing cats or dogs, as it can lead to developmental joint problems. Avoid giving Orbax antibiotic with vitamins or antacids. Also, Orbax may induce seizures in animals with a central nervous system disorder. The use of fluoroquinolone antibiotics may adversely affect the retina of cats. Therefore, Orbax should be used with caution in cats. This product is for use in animals only.

What do I do if I have missed a Orbax dose?

If a dose is missed, give the dose as soon as possible. However, if the next dose should be given within the next 1-3 hours, skip the missed dose. If an overdose occurs, immediately seek medical attention. Overdose symptoms include: excessive vomit, lethargic, loss of appetite.

Orbax interactions

Always discuss current medications with the veterinarian before beginning any new prescriptions. Many drugs can interact in a harmful way. In particular, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can interact with Orbax. Theophylline (Theo-Dur), a drug used to treat respiratory disorders, Phenytoin Sodium, used to treat seizures, and Probenecid may also interfere with the Orbax antibiotic.

Orbax side effects

Unfortunately, some dogs and cats have an allergic reaction to Orbax. Seek immediate emergency medical attention if any of the following symptoms occur: *Respiratory Distress *Swelling of the throat, tongue or lips *Hives Some pets may experience intestinal distress or vomit while taking Orbax. In this case, continue administering Orbax and contact a veterinarian. Clinical trials also documented the following side effects: *Depression *Facial edema *Ataxia *Seizures