Selected Antimicrobial Information – Equine

Cefazolin [Equine]

Restriction Status

Unrestricted

Dose

Species Usage Dose
Horses
 For susceptible infections
  • Adults: 10-20mg/kg IV q6-8h (extra-label use)
  • Foals: 15-20mg/kg IV q8-12h (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 and anaerobes. Cefazolin is often not effective against Rhodococcus equi and is also not effective against Enterococcus spp., and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Distribution throughout the body is wide, but cefazolin does not penetrate intracellularly or cross the blood-brain barrier. Excretion is primarily in urine.

Acceptable Uses

  • Treatment of infections caused by culture-confirmed susceptible Staphylococcus spp.

Unacceptable Uses

  • Should not be used as a first-line treatment for suspected Gram-negative infections.

Formulations Available within the OSU Pharmacy

  • Cefazolin 1g/10ml injectable suspension

Notes

  • None

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.