Cefovecin

Cefovecin is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used in veterinary medicine, primarily for the treatment of skin infections (such as pyoderma), wound infections, and urinary tract infections in dogs and cats. It is marketed under the brand name Convenia by Zoetis (formerly Pfizer Animal Health).

Cefovecin distinguishes itself from other cephalosporins due to its prolonged duration of action. Following a single subcutaneous injection, therapeutic concentrations can be maintained in the blood for up to 14 days, reducing the need for daily oral administration. This extended-release property is due to the drug's high degree of protein binding in plasma, which slows its elimination from the body.

The mechanism of action of cefovecin is similar to other beta-lactam antibiotics: it inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), ultimately leading to cell lysis and bacterial death. Cefovecin exhibits a broad spectrum of activity against many gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria commonly implicated in canine and feline infections.

Common side effects associated with cefovecin use include gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea), lethargy, and injection site reactions. As with any antibiotic, the use of cefovecin should be judicious and guided by antimicrobial susceptibility testing when possible to minimize the development of antibiotic resistance. The drug is contraindicated in animals with known hypersensitivity to cephalosporins or other beta-lactam antibiotics. Careful consideration should be given to the potential for adverse reactions and the risk of antibiotic resistance when using cefovecin.