CEFTIOFUR SODIUM, CEFTIOFUR HCL

For general information on the cephalosporins including adverse effects, contraindications, overdosage, drug interactions, and monitoring parameters, refer to the monograph: Cephalosporins, General Information.
Chemistry - Ceftiofur sodium and HCl are semisynthetic 3rd generation cephalosporins.

Storage, Stability, Compatibility

Unreconstituted ceftiofur sodium powder for reconstitutionshould be stored in the refrigerator (2°-8°C). Protect from light. Color of the cake may vary fromoff-white to tan, but this does not affect potency. After reconstitution with bacteriostatic water forinjection or sterile water for injection, the solution is stable for up to 7 days when refrigerated andfor 12 hours at room temperature (15-30°C). According to the manufacturer, if a precipitate shouldform while being stored refrigerated during this time, the product may be used if it goes back intosolution after warming. If not, contact the manufacturer. Frozen reconstituted solutions are stablefor up to 8 weeks. Thawing may be done at room temperature or by swirling the vial under runningwarm or hot water.
The HCl product should be stored at controlled room temperature (20°-25°C; 68°-77°F) andprotected from freezing. It should be shaken well before use.
Pharmacology/Spectrum of Activity - Ceftiofur inhibits cel wall synthesis (at stage three) ofsusceptible multiplying bacteria. Ceftiofur exhibits a spectrum of activity similar to that of cefotaxime. It has a broad range of in vitro activity against a variety of pathogens, including many species of Pasturella, Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Salmonella, and E.coli.

Uses, Indications

Ceftiofur sodium/HCl is indicated for treatment of bovine respiratory disease(shipping fever, pneumonia) associated with Pasturella hemolytica, Pasturella multocida and Haemophilus somnus in lactating or non-lactating cattle and ceftiofur sodium is indicated in horsesfor respiratory disease associated with Strep zooepidimicus:. Ceftiofur HCl is also approved forfoot rot in cattle.
Ceftiofur could potentially be of usefulness in small animal infections as well, but little publisheddata is available to recommend its use.
Pharmacokinetics (specific) - In cattle, ceftiofur sodium and HCl have practically equivalentpharmacokinetic parameters. Peak levels of ceftiofur are slightly higher after IM injection of
Naxcel®, but areas under the curve are practically equal as well as elimination half-lives (approx. 9-12 hours).