Ceftiofur

Ceftiofur: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

• 3rd generation cephalosporin binds to penicillin-binding proteins involved in bacterial
  cell wall synthesis, decreasing cell wall strength and rigidity and affecting cell division.
• Resistant to some penicillinases produced by Staphylococcus spp., but ineffective against meticillin-resistant staphylococci.
• Works in a time-dependent fashion.
• Uniquely among the cephalosporins, ceftiofur is metabolized to desfuroylceftiofur,
  which is an active metabolite.

Uses of Ceftiofur

• It should be reserved for patients suffering from acute sepsis or serious infections where cultures are pending, other licensed preparations are not appropriate and the animal is not a good candidate for intensive aminoglycoside therapy (pre-existing renal dysfunction).
•  Authorized for use in dogs in other countries where the main indication for use is in the treatment of urinary tract infections.

Dose of Ceftiofur in Dogs and Cats

Dogs:

• For susceptible urinary tract infections 2.2 mg/kg s.c. q24h.
• A higher (double) dose is indicated to treat sepsis/bacteremia.

Cats:

Does not established.

Side Effects of Ceftiofur in Dogs and Cats

• May produce pain on injection.
• GI disturbance and superinfection with resistant microorganisms is a potential risks.
• Type I, II and III hypersensitivity reactions are rarely reported.
• May be an increased risk of nephrotoxicity if cephalosporins are used with amphotericin or loop diuretics (e.g. furosemide); monitor renal function.
• In dogs, dose- and duration-dependent anemia and thrombocytopenia have been recorded, although this should not occur with recommended doses.

Contraindications of Ceftiofur in Dogs and Cats

• Use with care in patients with renal disease and consider increasing dose interval.

Some Notes:

• The cephalosporins are synergistic with the aminoglycosides, but should not be mixed in the same syringe.