Dogs are susceptible to a number of yeast and fungal infections. One of these, blastomycosis, is a potentially fatal systemic disease. A family of antifungal medications known as the "-azoles" includes the drug itraconazole, a common treatment for these conditions.
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History
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The first -azole antifungal, miconazole, was licensed in 1979. Ketaconazole was introduced in 1981, and fluconazole in 1990. Itraconazole, released in 1992, has fewer serious side effects than the earlier drugs.
Function
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The enzyme ergosterol is essential to fungal cell function, according to Dr. Wendy C. Brooks, DVM of Veterinary Partner.com. Itraconazol limits production of ergosterol, eventually killing the fungus.
Uses
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In addition to treating blastomycosis, itraconazole treats dogs with the fungal infections histoplasmosis. aspergillosis, coccidioidomycosis and cryptococcsosis. It's also effective against ringworm and the yeast infections candidiasis and malassezia.
Side Effects
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Itraconazole's side effects result from liver toxicity. Side effects include diarrhea nausea and loss of appetite at lower doses, and leg swelling and skin ulcers at higher ones.
Consideration
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Standard 100 mg itraconazole capsules make it difficult to accurately dose a dog. Capsules in the correct dosage should be ordered from a compounding pharmacy to avoid the problem.
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