Dechra Veterinary Products has launched Equibactin vet, a broad spectrum oral antibiotic paste that can be used to treat a wide range of infections in horses.

Equibactin vet contains sulfadiazine and trimethoprim, and is indicated for use in the treatment of infections, particularly respiratory tract infections associated with Streptococcus spp. and Staphylococcus aureus; gastrointestinal infections associated with E. coli; urogenital infections associated with beta-hemolytic streptococci; and wound infections and open or drained abscesses associated with Streptococcus spp. and Staphylococcus aureus.

The new product has been designed to provide accurate administration to all sizes of horses or ponies. One syringe provides a complete dose for 600kg bodyweight and is subdivided into 12 markings, to help keep track of dosages.

Dechra Brand Manager Emma Jennings said: "Equibactin vet has a proven antibiotic combination with a synergistic effect2 making it an excellent first line broad spectrum antimicrobial treatment for most Gram positive and negative aerobes.

It can be administered without food which improves the oral bioavailability, offering equine veterinary surgeons a quick and efficient treatment when it comes to targeting these infections that are often experienced in day-to-day practice.

"With its ease of use and three-year shelf life, we anticipate that Equibactin vet will quickly become a popular product when it comes to maintaining equine health."

For more information, visit www.dechra.co.uk/products/equine.

References

  1. BEVA Protect ME: Antimicrobial Guidelines. Practice Policy Template: Dose and routes of administration of common antimicrobials www.beva.org.uk
  2. Haggett, E.F. and Wilson, W.D. (2008) ‘Overview of the use of antimicrobials for the treatment of bacterial infections in horses’ Equine Veterinary Education 20 (8); pp. 433-448
  3. Bogan, J.A; Galbraith, A; Baxter, P; Ali, N.M. and Marriner, S.E. (1984) ‘Effect of feeding on the fate of orally administered phenylbutazone, trimethoprim and sulphadiazine in the horse’ Vet. Rec. 115, pp. 599-600

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