Equine antibiotic recalled.

The UK’s Veterinary Medicines Directorate has called for the recall of a batch of the horse antibiotic, Genta-Equine, due to reports of serious adverse effects in horses, including anaphylactic reactions. An investigation into the cause of these incidents is underway.

Background

• The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is an executive agency of the Department of Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs in the UK. It is responsible for the regulation of veterinary medicinal products.
• Genta-Equine, a solution for injection, is a medicine for horses that is comprised of an antibiotic compound called gentamycin. This drug is marketed by Franklin Pharmaceuticals and distributed by Dechra Veterinary Products.
• Batch 6054-81A of Genta-Equine, which expires in January 2018, has been identified as the source of the reported serious adverse effects.

Recall

• The VMD issued a batch recall for the identified product, and advises that its use should be ceased immediately.
• This decision was taken in response to reports of serious adverse events in horses, involving anaphylactic reactions. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening.
• An investigation has been launched by the VMD into the cause of these adverse events.
• A batch recall to the veterinary practice level is currently underway. This implies that the recall is at the level of veterinary practices, meaning that the batch should be returned by the veterinary practices that have it in stock.

Further Information

• Additional details on the recall can be obtained from Andrew Parkinson, the quality director at Dechra Veterinary Products. His contact information has been made available for direct inquiries related to this recall.