A group of nine European scientists involved in the use of fluoroquinolones has met to review and grade scientific literature on the subject. 
                            
The group, entitled REQUEST (REassessing QUinolones European Standards) was launched at the end of last year.  The aim of REQUEST is to define guidelines for the appropriate use and prescription of fluoroquinolones among companion animals, and to publish recommendations which will help the veterinary practitioner in every day situations.

The group, chaired by Professor Jean-Pierre Cotard, met in March and discussed several topics including pharmacodynamics (spectrum and susceptibility results) and pharmacokinetics, current indications of fluoroquinolones and specificities of their use in cats and in dogs.

They also created a table to cross the indications where fluoroquinolones are a good opportunity with the assessment of available publications on diffusion, spectrum, clinical proof and protocol.   On reviewing this table, it appears that for most indications (such as skin, urinary, respiratory infections) data is available and guidelines will be generated. For other tissue infections, there is a lack of data and further studies will be required before proposing any guidelines.

The meeting concluded with the creation of draft guidelines on fluoroquinolones and urinary tract infections of dogs. This draft, once validated and finalised, will be published as will subsequent documents developed at future meetings.  The next meeting is due to take place at the end of the year in a European Veterinary University.

To ensure the independence of the experts, StratAdviser Ltd. has been charged with organising the European Expert Group and providing any scientific and methodological support.  REQUEST is sponsored by Vétoquinol.   Vétoquinol trades throughout five continents, having direct representation in 22 countries strongly involved in anti-infectives.

Propalin® exceeds Blue Cross target for animals in need

Vetoquinol is delighted to announce that its recent Propalin® campaign to raise funds for The Blue Cross pet charity beat its target of £10,000.  Vetoquinol donated money from the sale of both pack sizes of Propalin® from July to December 2008 and raised £10,227.98.  The money will help care for sick and homeless animals at Blue Cross adoption centres and hospitals around the country.

Vanessa Rossiter, Corporate Development Manager for The Blue Cross said “At a time when our services are in high demand, with more animals being given up for rehoming, this support from Vetoquinol is hugely appreciated.  It demonstrates how companies and charities can work together to help animals in need.”

“I am thrilled that we superseded our target of £10,000,” commented Simon Boulton, Product Manager, Vetoquinol UK and Ireland.  “I would like to thank all vets for their support and efforts with this promotion.  I hope that this money will help make a real difference to those animals that are looked after by The Blue Cross.”

Vetoquinol advises vets and farmers
to look out for counterfeit Marbocyl

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
- Counterfeit Marbocyl 10% injection

The withdrawal period of this counterfeit product is unknown.  Should the product be used it could be detected in milk or after slaughter.  This is why Vetoquinol advises the veterinary community to be aware of the risk, to carefully check the product packaging before use and to continue to source the product from reputable suppliers. Vetoquinol is committed to the protection of animal and human health by supplying the highest quality products which can be fully trusted by the veterinary profession. We would urge you to help us to do this by taking the following actions if you find this product on farm or are approached to purchase it:

Please be assured that we will do all that is necessary to remove this product from the market. If you need further information or advice, do not hesitate to contact Vetoquinol on 0800 1698197.