Lyme disease is a tick borne disease caused by a bacteria. Once your dog has been diagnosed with Lyme disease, your veterinarian will prescribe a course of antibiotics for him, probably from the tetracycline or penicillin family. Although these antibiotics are generally safe, there are possible side effects--some mild, some more serious.
-
Tetracycline family
-
Doxycycline, a member of the tetracycline family, is the most commonly prescribed antibiotic for Lyme disease treatment. Antibiotics in the tetracycline family, particularly Doxycycline, are most commonly prescribed to treat Lyme disease. (The American College of Veterinary Medicine recommends a 30-day course of Doxycycline.) Side effects of these antibiotics may include allergic responses (hives, facial swelling and labored or difficult breathing), dizziness, fever, hair loss, decreased urination, darkening of urine color, confusion, weakness, decreased appetite, jaundice, mild nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Tetracycline antibiotics aren't recommended for animals that are nursing or very young animals because they can cause tooth discoloration. They are also not safe for pregnant animals.
Cephalexin
-
Cephalexin has a broad spectrum of activity against bacteria. The most common side effect of cephalexin is vomiting shortly after it's given. Diarrhea is less common. As with members of the tetracycline family, cephalexin also may cause allergic reactions. Some animals may experience blood or mucus in their stool, unusual bleeding or bruising, and may be more vulnerable to secondary yeast infections. Accidental overdose can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, muscle spasms, weakness and even seizures.
Penicillin family
-
Two common members of the penicillin family used to treat Lyme disease are amoxicillin and ampicillin. These antibiotics are generally safe for all age groups, but may not be as effective as some other antibiotics because of bacterial resistance. Neither ampicillin or amoxicillin should be given to animals that are allergic to penicillin. Allergic reactions may include rashes, hives, swelling of face or limbs and difficulty breathing. Other side effects may include fever, rapid heartbeat, lack of balance, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, abdominal pain, drooling and decreased appetite. Amoxicillin can also increase risk of unusual bleeding, excessive bruising, and secondary yeast infections. The most common side effect of ampicillin is loose stools.
Warning
-
When your dog is on antibiotics for treatment of Lyme disease, always consult your vet before giving any supplements, even multivitamins and calcium. Dr. Allen M. Schoen, in his paper "Lyme Disease; Fact from Fiction," suggests nutritional and herbal supplements to boost the animal's immune system and help alleviate side effects from antibiotics during treatment. But always talk to your veterinarian first about any supplements, including supplements like calcium, and how they may interact with antibiotics or other medications your dog may be taking.
-