Cefovecin

What is cefovecin?

Cefovecin (brand name: Convenia®) is a cephalosporin antibiotic used most for skin infections, periodontal disease, and urinary tract infections. It has also been used as a part of outpatient treatment for parvovirus and other bacterial infections. It is a long-acting, injectable antibiotic, so it is useful when giving medications by mouth is difficult.

Its use in cats and dogs to treat certain types of bacterial infections is off label (extra label). Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How is cefovecin given?

• Cefovecin is given by injection under the skin, usually at the veterinary hospital. Occasionally, veterinarians prescribe this medication for pet owners to administer to their pet at home.
• If giving injections at home, mix the medication exactly as instructed, making sure to shake the vial until the liquid is clear (not cloudy).
• Use a new needle and syringe for every injection.
• Follow your veterinarian’s instructions for injecting the medication under the skin.
• Dispose of needles in proper sharps containers only.
• If you have difficulty giving your pet the injection, contact your veterinary hospital.

This medication will take effect quickly, in about 1 to 2 hours, but effects may not be noted outwardly for several days.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

Contact your veterinary office for advice if you have missed a dose.

Are there any potential side effects?

Cefovecin may cause the following side effects:

• Sluggishness
• Lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea
• Skin reactions at the site of the injection

Serious adverse reactions associated with this drug may occur without warning and could, in rare cases, lead to death. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving cefovecin and contact your veterinarian immediately:

• Facial swelling
• Difficulty breathing
• Blood cell and bone marrow abnormalities
• Liver enzyme increases
• Death

Drug sensitivities can develop over time, with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment. Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. Adverse effects can occur up to two months after an injection.

The pharmaceutical company that produces the only veterinary-labelled source of cefovecin (Convenia) reports that it is eliminated from the body slowly. Approximately 65 days is needed to eliminate 97% of the administered dose.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE cefovecin in:

• Pets that are allergic to it or other beta-lactam antibiotics
• Herbivores such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters (it can negatively affect their digestive system)

USE WITH CAUTION in:

• Pets with kidney disease
• Pets that are pregnant or nursing (safety has not been tested, although other cephalosporins are considered safe); evaluate risks versus benefits in these cases
• Pets younger than 4 months old (safety has not been established, although it is labeled for use in dogs and cats over 8 weeks old in the European Union); evaluate risks versus benefits in these cases

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Drug interactions with cefovecin have not been studied in animals, but based on laboratory testing, several medications should be used with caution when given with cefovecin, including:

• Anti-seizure medications
• Behavior medications
• Cardiac medications
• Furosemide
• Doxycycline
• Ketoconazole
• Maropitant
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs)
• Propofol

Antibiotics like cefovecin can also interact with certain lab tests, such as urine glucose tests, blood protein tests, and blood or urine tests for creatinine (a kidney value). These interactions can lead to false test results. 

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• There is no specific monitoring that needs to be done while your pet is taking this medication.
• Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store cefovecin?

• Cefovecin (powder and liquid) should be stored in the refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C (35°F and 46°F) and protected from light.
• Discard 56 days after reconstitution.
• Cefovecin liquid starts out light yellow, immediately after mixing, and darkens during the 56 days of use.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms.