cefquinome

Cefquinome is a **fourth-generation cephalosporin** antibiotic used exclusively in veterinary medicine for the treatment of severe bacterial infections in livestock, such as coliform mastitis in dairy cows, pneumonia in piglets, and septicemia in horses[1][3][8]. It is notable for its broad-spectrum activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including *Streptococcus agalactiae*, *Escherichia coli*, *Pasteurella multocida*, and others[3][7]. Cefquinome is highly resistant to beta-lactamase enzymes due to its chemical modifications and rapidly crosses bacterial cell membranes to target penicillin-binding proteins, thus inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis (bactericidal effect)[1][5][7]. Developed by Hoechst AG (later Aventis, now part of Sanofi), it is administered parenterally (injection or intramammary), with approval in Europe and other countries for veterinary indications; it is not approved for human use[1][8].

Brand names

CobactanCephguard

Other names

CefquinomeCefquinomaCefquinomumCobactan (veterinary)Cefquinome sulphate