A new cefovecin sodium injectable therapy is now available in the US

A generic, long-acting, injectable antibiotic for the treatment of canine and feline skin infections has been launched by Dechra. The cefovecin sodium product (Solovecin; Dechra) is available in the US through all major distributors, according to the veterinary pharmaceutical manufacturer.¹

Solovecin was approved by the FDA in June 2025 and is a bioequivalent product to Convenia (Zoetis Inc), according to an email to dvm360 from Dechra. The first generic drug bioequivalent to Convenia—approved by the FDA in 2008—is Cefovecin Sodium for Injection by Qilu Animal Health Products Co in Shandong, China. Qilu's generic product was approved by the US FDA on June 24, 2025.^2,3

All 3 cefovecin sodium injectable therapies are indicated for treatment of canine skin infections, caused by susceptible strains of Staphylococcus intermedius and Streptococcus canis (group G). These infections include secondary superficial pyoderma, abscesses, and wounds.^1,3,4

In cats, these bioequivalent drugs are indicated for the treatment of skin infections caused by susceptible strains of Pasteurella multocida. These feline infections include wounds and abscesses.^1,3,4

Skin conditions consistently rank as one of the top reasons for veterinary visits and the top reason for veterinarians to prescribe antibiotics, according to Dechra. However, inconsistent antibiotic administration can be a challenge that puts patients at risk for treatment failure. For pet owners, administering antibiotics inconsistently may lead to more expense and time at the animal health clinic, diminished trust in veterinary care, and degradation of the bond between a human and their pet.¹

“When it comes to antibiotics, successful treatment is highly dependent on the drug being given correctly by the pet owner. Missed dosages, abbreviated treatment courses, and inaccurate reporting by the pet owner are common roadblocks," Darin Dell, DVM, DACVD, said in a news release.¹ "With Solovecin, the patient is getting their full course of treatment in one simple injection at the veterinary clinic, eliminating compliance concerns and supporting better health outcomes."

Available with a prescription from a licensed veterinarian, cefovecin sodium is required to be reconstituted with water for injection. Each multi-use vial of reconstituted lyophile contains 80 mg of cefovin.^1,2

Adverse effects may occur with cefovecin sodium injection including vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite or anorexia and lethargy. Humans with hypersensitivity to penicillin or cephalosporins should avoid exposure to the drug. The drug should not be administered to animals allergic to penicillin or cephalosporins.¹

References

1. Dechra announces U.S. launch of Solovecin™ (cefovecin sodium), an in-clinic antibiotic solution for skin infections in dogs and cats. News release. November 3, 2025. Accessed November 4, 2025. https://www.dechra-us.com/news/2025/november/u-s-launch-of-solovecin-cefovecin-sodium
2. Crossley KC. New generic drug for skin infections is approved by the FDA. dvm360. June 24, 2025. Accessed November 3, 2025. https://www.dvm360.com/view/new-generic-drug-for-skin-infections-is-approved-by-the-fda
3. Recent animal drug approvals. FDA. November 3, 2025. Accessed November 4, 2025. https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/approved-animal-drug-products-green-book/recent-animal-drug-approvals
4. Convenia (cefovecin sodium). Zoetis. 2023. Accessed June 24, 2025. https://www.zoetisus.com/products/petcare/convenia/