Cryptosporidiosis in Ball Pythons
Reptile · Python regius · typical adult weight 1.00–2.00 kg
3 cited drugs treat Cryptosporidiosis in ball pythons: Azithromycin, Paromomycin, Ponazuril.
Protozoal enteric infection caused by Cryptosporidium spp. — significant in calves, lambs, foals, reptiles (notably leopard geckos via C. saurophilum), and as a zoonotic concern. No reliably effective antiprotozoal in many species; supportive care remains the mainstay.
The overview above describes Cryptosporidiosis across species; the citations below are the ExoticRx dose rules scoped to ball pythons — a reference list, not new species-specific clinical guidance.
Azithromycin(Zithromax)
Antibiotic| Route | Dose | Frequency | Indication | Evidence | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PO | 10 mg/kg | q2-7d (skin q3d; respiratory tract q5d; liver/kidn | Mycoplasma, Cryptosporidium, Giardia and other susceptible organisms | Moderate | Coke RL, Hunter RP, Isaza R, et al. Pharmacokinetics and tissue concentrations of azithromycin in ball pythons (Python regius). Am J Vet Res. 2003;64:225-228. — Mined from Carpenter's Exotic Animal Formulary, 6th Ed, p.212 (2026-08-01, PENDING REVIEW) |
Paromomycin(Humatin)
Antibiotic| Route | Dose | Frequency | Indication | Evidence | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PO | 100 mg/kg | q24h × 7 days, then 2x/wk × 3 mo | Cryptosporidiosis | Weak | Cranfield MR, Graczyk TK. Cryptosoporidiosis. In: Mader DR, eds. Reptile Medicine and Surgery, 2nd ed., Saunders/Elsevier, St. Louis, MO; 2006:756-762. — Mined from Carpenter's Exotic Animal Formulary, 6th Ed, p.229 (2026-08-01, PENDING REVIEW) |
Ponazuril(Marquis)
Antiparasitic| Route | Dose | Frequency | Duration | Indication | Evidence | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PO | 5–10 mg/kg | q48h | Ongoing; poor response in many reptiles | Cryptosporidiosis | Weak | Carpenter's Exotic Animal Formulary, 6th Ed |
Sourced from published veterinary references; awaiting credentialed clinical reviewer. See our editorial process. Reference only — not veterinary advice. Verify against current literature before clinical use.