Indications
Sulphachloropyridazine (spelled Sulphachloropyridazone on some packs) is a veterinary sulfonamide antibiotic. It is used in poultry, cattle, calves, sheep, goats and pigs, usually combined with Trimethoprim, to treat bacterial infections of the gut, lungs and urinary tract, such as colibacillosis (E. coli infection), salmonellosis, fowl cholera, coryza and some forms of coccidiosis. It is for animal use only and is not for human use.
How It Works
Bacteria must make their own folic acid to grow. Sulphachloropyridazine blocks an early step in this process. Trimethoprim blocks a later step, so together they stop bacteria from multiplying and the combination works better than either alone.
Dosage and Administration
Give only as directed on the product label or by a veterinarian. It is usually mixed into drinking water or feed for a set number of days (often 3 to 5 days). Prepare fresh medicated water every day and make sure it is the only drinking water available during treatment. Dose depends on species, body weight and the product strength.
Interactions
- Do not mix with other medicines or feed additives in the same water unless the veterinarian approves.
- Local anaesthetics of the Procaine type can reduce the effect of sulfonamides.
- Acidifiers and some minerals in water may affect how well the powder dissolves.
Contraindications
- Animals with known sensitivity to sulfonamides or Trimethoprim.
- Animals with severe liver or kidney damage or blood disorders.
- Laying hens producing eggs for human consumption, unless the label allows it.
- Dehydrated animals that are not drinking enough.
Side Effects
Usually well tolerated at the correct dose. Long use or high doses can cause kidney damage from crystals in the urine, reduced appetite, digestive upset, blood changes and, in poultry, lower egg production.
Contact a veterinarian promptly if animals stop drinking, show bloody urine, weakness, swelling or sudden deaths. If a person accidentally swallows the product or develops a skin reaction after handling it, seek medical help and show the label.
Pregnancy and Lactation
This is a veterinary product and is not for human use. Pregnant or breastfeeding people should avoid handling the powder or wear gloves and a mask. In pregnant or lactating animals, use only on veterinary advice. Milk from treated animals must not be used for human consumption during the withdrawal period.
Precautions and Warnings
- Observe the withdrawal period on the label: meat, milk and eggs from treated animals must not be eaten until it has passed.
- Make sure animals have plenty of clean water to protect the kidneys.
- Use only for confirmed or strongly suspected bacterial infections to limit antibiotic resistance; complete the full course.
- People allergic to sulfonamides should avoid contact; wear gloves and wash hands after use.
Overdose
Overdose in animals can cause loss of appetite, kidney damage, depression and reduced growth or egg production. Stop treatment, provide plenty of fresh water and contact a veterinarian.
Therapeutic Class
Veterinary sulfonamide antibacterial (usually combined with Trimethoprim).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the container tightly closed and away from food and animal feed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.