Ampicillin-sulbactam Effect in Respiratory Infections in Thoroughbred Horses: A Preliminar Study

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of ampicillin-sulbactam in respiratory processes of Thoroughbred horses. We studied a total of 21 horses, (11 stallions and 10 mares) of Thoroughbred, all 2 years old, during the period of quarantine at the Hippodrome "La Rinconada" Caracas, Venezuela. History shows respiratory processes, characterized by purulent nasal secretion, cough, purulent nasal secretion, depression and anorexia. All horses under the same conditions of feeding and management. It was practiced a cytological, bacterial culture swab following conventional methods, from nasal swab. Then we preceded to antibiotic therapy based Calox Ampicillin-sulbactam, 7 mg/kg dose, and injection form every 12 hours and for 5 days. Gradually, each horse was evaluated during the 7 days by clinical and bacteriological examination final. The established antibiotic Ampicillin-sulbactam base for 7 days led to a clear positive clinical response and complete resolution in all cases studied from the seventh day. In relation to the isolated bacteria corresponded to 90% Streptococcus equi, while 5% Staphylococus aureus corresponded to and 5% to Klebsiella sp. The resistance was observed for Nilidixic Acid, Ciprofloxacin and Penicillin. In conclusion, we demonstrated the effectiveness of Ampicillin-sulbactam in treating respiratory infections in Thoroughbred Horses.