Antirobe (clindamycin hydrochloride) is a lincosamide antibiotic manufactured by Zoetis, widely prescribed in UK veterinary practice for dental infections, bone infections (osteomyelitis), wound infections, and abscesses. It is available for both dogs and cats and is particularly valued for its effectiveness against anaerobic bacteria commonly found in dental and bone infections.

Price Comparison

Antirobe capsules (per course of treatment, 10–14 days):

  • From your vet: £18–£40 per course
  • Online pharmacies (with prescription): £10–£22 per course
  • Prescription fee: £10–£25

Capsule sizes are 25mg, 75mg, and 150mg, with prices varying accordingly. For short courses, the prescription fee may offset some savings, but for longer or repeated courses the online saving of 40–50% is worthwhile.

What Does Antirobe Treat?

  • Dental infections: The most common use — treats infections of the teeth, gums, and jaw including dental abscesses
  • Bone infections (osteomyelitis): Clindamycin achieves good bone penetration, making it first-choice for bone infections
  • Wound infections: Deep wounds, bite abscesses, and post-surgical infections
  • Skin infections: Deep pyoderma and abscesses
  • Toxoplasmosis: In cats (off-label but well-established use)

Species and Forms

  • Dogs: Capsules (25mg, 75mg, 150mg). Dosed at 5.5–11mg/kg twice daily
  • Cats: Capsules (25mg, 75mg). Dosed at 5.5–11mg/kg twice daily. Also available as Antirobe Aquadrops (25mg/ml oral liquid)

Side Effects

  • Vomiting and diarrhoea — the most common side effects. Give with food to reduce GI upset
  • Oesophageal irritation in cats — always follow capsules with water or food to prevent capsules lodging in the oesophagus
  • Rare allergic reactions
  • As with all antibiotics, complete the full prescribed course to prevent resistance

Prescription Requirements

Antirobe is POM-V. A veterinary prescription is required, and you can then purchase from online pharmacies.

Important Antibiotic Stewardship Note

Antibiotics should only be used when prescribed by a vet for a diagnosed bacterial infection. Never keep leftover antibiotics for future use or share between pets. Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern in both human and veterinary medicine.

How to Save

  • Written prescription: Save 40–50% by buying from online pharmacies
  • Prevent dental infections: Daily tooth brushing reduces the frequency of dental infections needing antibiotics
  • Compare prices: Use VetCost to compare pharmacy prices for antibiotics
  • Complete the course: Finishing all prescribed antibiotics prevents relapse and the cost of a second course

Last updated: March 2026. Sources: VMD product datasheet, CMA provisional decision (October 2025), VetCost pharmacy data.