Why is my elderly dog confused and losing balance after Metronidazole?

Question

My elderly dog just suddenly having trouble walking, like a balance issue. Even just sitting up he keeps jerking like he thinks he is falling. He seems a little confused as well. He finished a 5 day course of Metronidazole on Monday morning. It seems his symptoms are a side effect, but could they be happening today? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 13 years and 3 months old | 50 lbs

Catherine Stecyk · Accepted Answer

Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I'm sorry to hear that Lucky is not acting himself and may be having a hard time balancing. These types of signs, called vestibular signs, can be a side effect of Metronidazole toxicity, however the signs tend to occur while a dog is taking the medication, and signs tend to resolve within a few days of stopping the medication. There are many causes of vestibular signs, such as a stroke, a mass within the brain, or something like a severe middle/inner ear infection. I recommend having Lucky seen by your veterinarian at their next available appointment for a physical exam and a neurologic exam. Based on these findings, your vet can try to localize the problem. Ultimately, they may recommend an MRI to determine the cause of Lucky's clinical signs. I hope this is helpful - best of luck getting care for Lucky!

Why is my elderly dog confused and losing balance after Metronidazole?

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