From the Research
Azithromycin should not be used as a primary treatment for canine oral papillomas, as the most recent and highest quality study suggests that these lesions are generally benign and self-limiting, typically resolving on their own within 1-5 months without treatment. According to the study published in 2025 1, oral papillomas are common in young dogs and generally do not require treatment because they resolve spontaneously. The virus is spread via direct contact during play, or via indirect contact (from the environment, through fomites).
Some key points to consider when dealing with canine oral papillomas include:
- The antiviral and immunomodulatory properties of azithromycin may help in some cases, but this is not considered standard therapy 2
- Most veterinarians recommend watchful waiting for these lesions unless they interfere with eating, cause discomfort, or fail to resolve
- In severe cases, surgical removal, cryotherapy (freezing), or other direct treatments may be more appropriate
- If a dog has extensive or persistent oral papillomas, it's best to consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations rather than attempting antibiotic therapy without professional guidance
It's also worth noting that while some studies have investigated the use of azithromycin in treating canine oral papillomas, such as the study published in 2008 2, the most recent and highest quality study suggests that this is not a recommended treatment approach. Additionally, other treatment options such as cryosurgery, CO2 laser ablation, surgical excision, or topical imiquimod may be considered for bothersome or nonregressing papillomas 1.