[Off-label use of lincomycin hydrochloride in 2 horses. Dysbacteriosis and fatal complications due to inadequate symptomatic therapy].

This research paper examines the consequences of inappropriate off-label use of the antibiotic lincomycin in two trotting horses, focusing on the fatal outcomes caused by inadequate symptomatic therapy. The analysis details some critical mistakes made during the horses’ treatment, including premature termination of fluid and electrolyte replacement therapy and improper use of antipyretic analgesics.

Unauthorized Use of Lincomycin

• The paper begins by emphasizing the lack of direct indications to use antibiotics in the discussed case. Despite this, lincomycin, an antibiotic usually prescribed for specific bacterial infections, was applied off-label, i.e., in a manner not officially approved by regulatory authorities.
• This ill-advised use of lincomycin was carried out without consultation with the drug’s manufacturer, which often provides crucial guidance about safe and effective usage. This failed step highlights the potential risks of off-label drug use, especially in the absence of expert guidance.

Faulty Symptomatic Therapy

• The research points out mistakes in providing remedial treatments to the horses, particularly in fluid and electrolyte replacement therapy. This treatment is essential in managing dehydration, a common secondary condition resulting from bacterial infections.
• In this case, however, the therapy was not continued long enough to effectively combat the horses’ dehydration. This abrupt cessation might cause significant health deteriorations, potentially leading to fatalities.

Incorrect Administration of Antipyretic Analgesics and Gentamicin

• The report further details the improper usage of antipyretic analgesics, a class of drugs used to reduce fever and relieve pain. Incorrect administration or dosage of these drugs can potentially result in undesired side effects, exacerbating the horses’ conditions.
• The research also warns against the perilof intravenous administration of gentamicin, another antibiotic, to dehydrated horses unless it’s supplemented with sufficient fluids and electrolytes. In cases of dehydration, the application of gentamicin can be particularly dangerous, carrying the risk of kidney damage and other severe complications.