The successful treatment of bacterial infections in animals hinges on the correct administration of antibiotics. Ceftiofur Sodium, a widely used veterinary cephalosporin, requires careful attention to dosage, administration route, and withdrawal periods to ensure both efficacy and safety. This guide provides essential information for veterinarians and animal health professionals seeking to optimize Ceftiofur Sodium therapy.

Dosage and Administration Across Species:

The specific Ceftiofur Sodium dosage for cattle is typically 1.0 mg/kg of body weight, administered intramuscularly once daily for three days. For more severe cases or those not responding, treatment may be extended. In cases of acute bovine interdigital necrobacillosis (foot rot), similar dosages are employed.

For swine, Ceftiofur Sodium treatment protocols for bacterial pneumonia often recommend 3.0 to 5.0 mg/kg of body weight, administered intramuscularly daily for three days. This dosage is designed to effectively target pathogens like Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae and Pasteurella multocida.

In sheep and goats, dosages of 1.1 to 2.2 mg/kg of body weight are generally advised for respiratory infections, given intramuscularly daily for three days. The higher end of the dosage range is often recommended for lactating does due to faster drug elimination.

Equine respiratory infections are treated with a higher dosage of 2.2 to 4.4 mg/kg of body weight, administered intramuscularly every 24 hours. Treatment should continue for 48 hours after clinical signs resolve, but not exceed 10 days.

For canine urinary tract infections, the recommended subcutaneous dosage is 2.2 mg/kg of body weight, administered daily for 5 to 14 days. It is crucial to note that only the 1-gram vial is approved for use in dogs, and veterinarians should use aseptic techniques with sterile needles and syringes.

Reconstitution and Administration:

Ceftiofur Sodium is typically supplied as a sterile powder for injection, which must be reconstituted before use. The powder is dissolved in sterile water or bacteriostatic water for injection, following the manufacturer's instructions to achieve the correct concentration (commonly 50 mg/mL). Aseptic techniques are paramount during reconstitution and administration to prevent microbial contamination. For intramuscular injections, a 18-gauge needle of 1 to 1.5 inches is usually adequate. Avoid injecting more than 10 mL per site to minimize tissue irritation.

Withdrawal Periods:

A critical consideration for food-producing animals is the withdrawal period, ensuring that meat and milk are free from harmful drug residues. For cattle and lambs treated with Ceftiofur Sodium according to label directions and dosage, there is no meat withdrawal period or milk withholding time required. This is a significant advantage for producers.

However, it is imperative to note that horses treated with Ceftiofur Sodium must not be slaughtered for use in food. This restriction highlights the importance of understanding species-specific regulations.

Optimizing Therapy:

To optimize Ceftiofur Sodium therapy, veterinarians should confirm the diagnosis through appropriate diagnostic tests. Monitoring the animal's response to treatment and adjusting the course of therapy as needed is also vital. While Ceftiofur Sodium has a broad spectrum, understanding the specific pathogen's susceptibility can further enhance treatment success.

In conclusion, accurate dosage calculation, proper reconstitution, correct administration techniques, and strict adherence to withdrawal periods are fundamental to the effective and safe use of Ceftiofur Sodium in veterinary practice. By following these guidelines, animal health professionals can maximize the therapeutic benefits of this essential antibiotic.