Dimidin

Indications

Sulphadimidine (also called sulfamethazine) is a veterinary antibacterial medicine for animals such as cattle, buffalo, goats, sheep and poultry. It is not for human use. It is used to treat bacterial infections such as pneumonia and other chest infections, calf diarrhoea (scours), foot rot, navel and joint infections, uterine and urinary infections, and coccidiosis (a gut parasite infection) in poultry and young animals.

How It Works

Sulphadimidine is a sulphonamide. It blocks bacteria and coccidia from making folic acid, which they need to grow. This stops them multiplying so the animal's immune system can clear the infection.

Dosage and Administration

Use only as prescribed by a veterinarian. The injection is given by a vet or trained animal health worker, usually into a vein or deep into the muscle or under the skin, at a dose based on the animal's body weight. Oral forms for poultry are mixed in drinking water as directed. Complete the full course, and make sure animals have plenty of clean drinking water during treatment.

Interactions

Procaine and other similar local anaesthetics can reduce its effect. Trimethoprim strengthens its action and is often combined with it. Medicines that make the urine acidic increase the risk of crystals forming in the kidneys. Tell the vet about any other treatment the animal is receiving.

Contraindications

Animals with severe kidney or liver disease, dehydration, blood disorders, or known allergy to sulphonamides. Do not use in animals whose milk or eggs are for human food unless the label and vet allow it, and always follow withdrawal periods.

Side Effects

Possible effects include swelling or pain at the injection site, reduced appetite, and, with dehydration or long use, crystals in the urine that can damage the kidneys. Allergic reactions and blood disorders can occur rarely. Call the vet urgently if the animal collapses, has difficulty breathing, shows blood in the urine, stops passing urine, or develops severe swelling after the injection.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Use in pregnant or milking animals only when the vet advises it. Milk from treated animals must not be used for human consumption until the withdrawal period on the label has passed.

Precautions and Warnings

Follow the meat, milk and egg withdrawal periods on the label so that residues do not enter the food chain. Inject into a vein slowly. Keep animals well watered. People who are allergic to sulpha medicines should avoid contact with the product and wash hands after use. Keep away from food and animal feed.

Overdose

Overdose can cause kidney damage, weakness, loss of appetite and nervous signs in the animal. Stop treatment, give plenty of water and contact a veterinarian. If a person accidentally injects or swallows the product, seek medical advice.

Therapeutic Class

Veterinary antibacterial and anticoccidial (sulphonamide).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Do not freeze.