The use of metronidazole in adult dogs with acute onset, uncomplicated, diarrhoea

Abstract

PICO question In adult, non-geriatric, dogs with acute onset (28 day) negative impact of metronidazole treatment on gut microbiome with no difference in time to resolution of clinical signs when compared with faecal matter transplant Conclusion The current evidence for the superiority of metronidazole compared to supportive treatment alone is weak and at this time there is no evidence-based rationale for its use in cases of uncomplicated, acute, canine diarrhoea. Furthermore, the negative implications of metronidazole on the intestinal microbiome have been found to be long standing (>28 days as a minimum) and should not be discounted by the prescribing clinician How to apply this evidence in practice The application of evidence into practice should take into account multiple factors, not limited to: individual clinical expertise, patient’s circumstances and owners’ values, country, location or clinic where you work, the individual case in front of you, the availability of therapies and resources. Knowledge Summaries are a resource to help reinforce or inform decision making. They do not override the responsibility or judgement of the practitioner to do what is best for the animal in their care.

Keywords

• canine
• diarrhoea
• acute diarrhoea
• gastroenteritis
• metronidazole
• microbiome