Selected Antimicrobial Information – Companion Animal

Cefazolin [Companion]

Restriction Status

Unrestricted

Dose

Species Usage Dose
Cats For surgical prophylaxis 20-22mg/kg IV once 60min prior to incision, repeated q90-120min until wound closure (extra-label use)
For susceptible infections
15-35mg/kg IV, IM, or SQ q6-8h (extra-label use)
Dogs For surgical prophylaxis 20-22mg/kg IV once 60min prior to incision, repeated q90-120min until wound closure (extra-label use)
For susceptible infections 15-35mg/kg IV, IM, or SQ q6-8h (extra-label use)

Brand Name(s)

Ancef®, Kefzol®, Zolicef®

Background

Cefazolin is a bactericidal, time-dependent first generation cephalosporin (β-lactam) antibiotic with activity primarily against Gram-positive aerobes, and more limited activity against Gram-negative aerobes. Activity is poor against anaerobes. Cefazolin is not effective against Enterococcus spp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus

Acceptable Uses

  • Surgical prophylaxis, particularly for prolonged orthopedic procedures. Most efficacious against Gram-positive aerobic organisms. Poor choice for colorectal surgery.
  • Treatment for systemic infections (e.g. sepsis) caused by susceptible organisms.

Unacceptable Uses

  • N/A

Formulations Available within the OSU Pharmacy

  • Cefazolin 1g/10ml injectable suspension

Notes

  • N/A

License

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OSU VMC Antimicrobial Use Guidelines Copyright © 2018 by The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.