MSD Animal Health has obtained regulatory approval in 21 European countries, including the UK, for Cobactan LA 7.5% (cefquinome) - a new-generation, injectable antimicrobial for the treatment of swine respiratory disease (SRD).

Raul Berro DVM, global marketing director swine at MSD Animal Health said: "Cobactan LA 7.5% is a long-acting version of our highly effective Cobactan 2.5%. Its longer duration of action means greater compliance for swine producers with fewer injections and less stress to the animals, without sacrificing performance."

According to the company, the long-acting antibiotic formulation is effective against three major SRD pathogens in growing and finishing pigs - Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, Haemophilus parasuis and Pasteurella multocida. Considered the most important threat to the swine industry worldwide, SRD causes increased mortality, decreased weight gain and increased feed consumption.

Cobactan LA 7.5% requires two intramuscular injections 48 hours apart, compared to Cobactan 2.5%, which requires three daily injections. The recommended dose rate is 1 mL (3 mg cefquinome) per 25 kg bodyweight. The product is
available in 50-ml, 100-ml and 250-ml glass vials.

Raul aded: "COBACTAN LA 7.5% also has a short withdrawal period of seven days. This makes the injectable product also safe to use throughout the finishing period for the treatment of SRD."

MSD adds that the use of COBACTAN LA 7.5% should be according to established responsible use guidelines and strictly according to the label instructions where specific restrictions apply to this class of antibiotics.

For more information, contact your local MSD Animal Health representative or go to www.msd-animal-health.com.

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