Itraconazole Treatment for Cats: How Many Days per Cour

Many cat owners, upon discovering their feline companions have contracted ringworm, turn to the internet for guidance. This often leads them to learn about the antifungal drug, Itraconazole, which is highly effective in treating ringworm. However, opinions vary on the dosage; some suggest a continuous regimen, while others advocate for a weekly onandoff schedule.

So, how should it be taken? What is the correct duration for a treatment cycle?

Section 1: The Role of Itraconazole

Itraconazole is a synthetic triazole derivative and a broadspectrum antifungal medication. It works by altering the permeability of fungal cell membranes, thereby exerting its antibacterial activity. It has sterilizing activity against both superficial and deep fungal infections.

With a broad antibacterial spectrum, Itraconazole effectively combats the dermatophytes (Trichophyton spp., Microsporum spp.) that cause ringworm, as well as other fungi like Malassezia, Candida, Aspergillus, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes.

Section 2: Dosage and Administration of Itraconazole

Itraconazole comes in capsule and solution forms, and it is generally recommended to take it for one week, then stop for one week.

Reasons:

Most of Itraconazole is metabolized by the liver, and longterm or excessive use can lead to hepatitis or liver failure, as well as gastrointestinal discomfort such as loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting. Therefore, a pulsed dosing regimen is typically advised, with a daily dose for one week followed by a oneweek break.

There are certain types of cats that should not use Itraconazole.

✘ Cats under 3 months of age (liver function is not fully developed, metabolism is weak)

✘ Pregnant queens (can affect fetal health)

✘ Cats with liver dysfunction (weaker metabolism of Itraconazole)

About the Dosage of Itraconazole:

● Itraconazole Capsules: Take immediately after meals, 510mg per kilogram of body weight for dogs and cats, once a day, for 7 days, then stop for 7 days to form a cycle.

● Itraconazole Solution (e.g., Hanfu Xin): Take on an empty stomach before meals, 0.5ml per kilogram of body weight for dogs and cats, once a day, for 7 days, then stop for 7 days to form a cycle. Typically, three cycles are recommended.

→ Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage to avoid liver issues;

→ Consider taking liverprotecting supplements along with the medication to reduce liver damage;

→ Discontinue use once the condition improves significantly. Continue to treat the cat with topical antifungal medications such as Dapsone (Compound Ketaconazole Ointment) and Pipute (Tebuconazole Hydrochloride Spray) until the infection is completely cured.

Section 3: What to Keep in Mind When Treating Ringworm

1. Pay attention to environmental disinfection: Ringworm fungi can survive and reproduce in the environment, especially on fluffy items. Therefore, regular environmental disinfection is essential during treatment, particularly for items that the cat frequently comes into contact with.

2. Avoid licking: Ringworm can cause itching, so it's important to keep the cat wearing an Elizabethan collar to prevent it from licking the affected area. Otherwise, the skin lesions can continue to be damaged and spread.

3. Supplement nutrition: Provide the cat with protein, Vitamin B, and OMEGA3 fatty acids to improve its constitution and help it fight the fungus through its own immune system.

Ringworm infections that are limited to a small area can usually be treated with topical medications alone, and it is not recommended to directly administer Itraconazole. Although Itraconazole has fewer side effects than oral medications like ketoconazole or griseofulvin, it does not mean it is without risk. Therefore, use it with caution.