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EquiMed Staff - 06/17/2014 Drugs And Medications

Nitrofurazone

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Pronunciation

ni-tro-FYOOR-uh-zone - Pronunciation guide

Brand Names

  • Cooper's Best MFZ Equine Dressing
  • Fura-Septin
  • Fura-Zone
  • NFZ Wound Dressing
  • Nitrofurazone Ointment
  • Nitrofurazone Soluble Dressing

Description

Nitrofurazone is the active antibacterial ingredient in a water-soluble base of polyethylene glycols used in the prevention or treatment of surface bacterial infections of wounds, burns, and cutaneous ulcers.

Usage

Nitrofurazone is used to prevent or treat surface bacterial infections of wounds, burns, and cutaneous ulcers. It is also used to treat urinary tract infections and metritis.

Nitrofurazone is also combined with other medications, such as Neomycin sulfate, prednisolone, and chlorophyll for treatment of bacterial and mycotic infections, eczema, infected wounds and burns, post-operative dressing, irritation, edema, and greasy heel.

Dosage and Administration

Nitrofurazone
Method Dosage Concentration Period Duration
Topical1 Thin coat2   Daily NA

Notes:

  • 1"HUMAN WARNING" - CARCINOGENESIS: NITROFURAZONE, THE ACTIVE INGREDIENT OF FURAZONE OINTMENT HAS BEEN SHOWN TO PRODUCE MAMMARY TUMORS IN RATS AND OVARIAN TUMORS IN MICE. SOME PEOPLE MAY BE HYPERSENSITIVE TO THIS PRODUCT. EITHER WEAR GLOVES WHEN APPLYING, OR WASH HANDS AFTERWARDS.
  • 2Apply directly on the lesion with a spatula or first place on a piece of gauze. The application of a bandage is optional. The preparation should be in contact with the lesion for at least 24 hours. The dressing may be changed several times a day or left on the lesion for a longer period.
  • The duration of administration depends on the condition being treated, response to the medication and the development of any adverse effects. Be certain to complete the prescription unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. Even if your equine appears to feel better, the entire treatment plan should be completed to prevent relapse.
  • This medication may be available in forms and concentrations not noted in the above table. Always check the label and literature provided with the medication about the form and concentration and DO NOT USE the calculator if the information differs.

Side Effects

Redness, swelling, or signs of irritation may occur, in which case, discontinue use and consult a veterinarian.

Precautions

Nitrofurazone has been shown to produce mammary tumors in rats and ovarian tumors in mice. Some people may be hypersensitive to this product. Wear gloves or wash hands thoroughly after use.

Nitrofurazone is FDA-approved for use in horses. It is a prescription drug and U. S. federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the lawful written or oral order of a licensed veterinarian.

Nitrofurazone would be prohibited in any drug-free competition. Check with the proper regulatory group.

Interactions

None noted in literature.

Overdose

No information is available.

Images

Literature

About the Author

EquiMed Staff

EquiMed staff writers team up to provide articles that require periodic updates based on evolving methods of equine healthcare. Compendia articles, core healthcare topics and more are written and updated as a group effort. Our review process includes an important veterinarian review, helping to assure the content is consistent with the latest understanding from a medical professional.

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