Cefazolin
Also known as: Ancef, Kefzol, Zolicef
Cefazolin is an injectable antibiotic that is typically administered by your veterinarian in a clinic or hospital setting, most commonly to prevent infection during surgery or to treat severe systemic infections. > **Important Note:** Because this medication is given via injection (intravenously or intramuscularly), you will not need to administer it at home. * **Allergic Reactions:** While rare, if your pet exhibits signs of an allergic reaction after returning home (such as facial swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing), contact your veterinarian immediately. * **Injection Site:** Your pet may experience mild soreness at the injection site. If you notice severe swelling, redness, or pain, let your veterinary team know.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Gram-positive infections
- Gram-negative infections
- Surgical prophylaxis (Orthopedic procedures)
- Surgical prophylaxis (Soft tissue surgery)
- Sepsis
- Systemic infections
- Susceptible infections
- Infections in neonates
- Susceptible infections
- Susceptible infections
- Susceptible infections (Foals)
- Susceptible infections (Neonatal foals)
- Surgical prophylaxis (Orthopedic procedures)
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Hypersensitivity reactions (rashes, fever, eosinophilia, anaphylaxis)
- Pain at the IM injection site
- Sterile abscesses or local tissue reactions (rare)
- Thrombophlebitis (following IV administration)
- Nephrotoxicity (minimal risk at clinical doses)
- Neurotoxicity or seizures (associated with very high IV doses)
- GI flora disruption (in nursing neonates)
Cautions & contraindications
- Patients with a known history of hypersensitivity to cephalosporins
- Use cautiously in patients with documented hypersensitivity to other beta-lactam antibiotics (e.g., penicillins, carbapenems) due to the potential for cross-reactivity. Dosage adjustments may be necessary in patients with severe renal failure, as the drug is primarily excreted unchanged by the kidneys. Safe use during pregnancy has not been firmly established (FDA Category B), though teratogenic effects have not been documented; use only when benefits outweigh risks. Cefazolin is distributed into milk and may alter neonatal gut flora in nursing dams.
Drug interactions
- Aminoglycosides: Potential for additive nephrotoxicity; use concurrently with caution.
- Amphotericin B: Potential for additive nephrotoxicity; use concurrently with caution.
- Probenecid: Competitively blocks the renal tubular secretion of cefazolin, thereby increasing serum levels and prolonging the elimination half-life.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cefazolin used for in pets?
Cefazolin is an injectable antibiotic that is typically administered by your veterinarian in a clinic or hospital setting, most commonly to prevent infection during surgery or to treat severe systemic infections. > **Important Note:** Because this medication is given via injection (intravenously or intramuscularly), you will not need to administer it at home. * **Allergic Reactions:** While rare, if your pet exhibits signs of an allergic reaction after returning home (such as facial swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing), contact your veterinarian immediately. * **Injection Site:** Your pet may experience mild soreness at the injection site. If you notice severe swelling, redness, or pain, let your veterinary team know.
Is Cefazolin safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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