Another treatment option is available to manage giardiasis in dogs and cats. The following background and safety information is intended to provide an introduction to the drug. Full drug information and a pet owner handout can be found at Plumb's.com.
Pharmacology of Secnidazole
Secnidazole, a nitroimidazole like metronidazole, is a trichomonacidal and amoebicidal agent with therapeutic activity against Giardia spp and is a concentration-dependent bactericidal agent against susceptible bacteria. After entering bacterial or protozoal cells, enzymatic reduction of the nitro group results in the production of radical anions and depletion of thiols, resulting in DNA damage and cell death.1
Contraindications of Secnidazole
Secnidazole is contraindicated in animals hypersensitive to it or other nitroimidazoles.
Adverse Effects of Secnidazole
Adverse effects observed in dogs and cats include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Transient hypersalivation has been observed in cats.2
Additional Information
A comprehensive look at how to best use secnidazole for the management of giardiasis in dogs and cats is offered by the experts at Plumb’s (paid subscription only).