Florvio is a broad-spectrum antibiotic indicated for the treatment of SRD associated with Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, Pasteurella multocida, Streptococcus suis and Salmonella choleraesuis.¹

The active ingredient in Florvio—florfenicol—is well-researched in pigs and has a proven track record of efficacy and safety. Clinical studies and field trials have shown that florfenicol can significantly improve treatment success of SRD and quickly reduce clinical signs of disease.¹

"Florvio combines several of the key attributes veterinarians most commonly look for in an antibiotic for treating pigs diagnosed with respiratory disease," said Mike Daly, Farm Animal Brand Manager, Novartis Animal Health. "It’s broad spectrum, fast-acting and the active ingredient in Florvio is used only in veterinary medicine. Consequently, it’s not classified as important for human medicine and that’s a benefit both veterinarians and producers appreciate."

As a liquid concentrate, Florvio is administered in the water supply. It is intended for treating respiratory disease in nursery pigs from eight to 13 weeks of age.

Important Tool for SRD Caused by Streptococcus suis in Nursery Pigs

Swine respiratory disease is one of the most prevalent causes of nursery pig and grower/finisher deaths.² A recent NAHMS survey showed that respiratory disease was the main cause of swine mortality—44.2 per cent of nursery pigs and 61.1 per cent of grower/finisher pigs.³ Without proper treatment, SRD can have significant economic consequences for producers.

Mark Hammer, DVM, Manager of Veterinary Services, Novartis Animal Health, noted that
SRD caused by S. suis is very common and Florvio is the only water-based antibiotic therapy labeled for the treatment of S. suis.

"Strep suis is a significant pathogen in nursing and wean pigs, causing pneumonia, lameness, and convulsions," said Dr Hammer. "The result of these clinical signs can include reduced growth and death. Because the period of time between exposure to the pathogen and the onset of clinical signs can be separated by hours or days, Florvio offers a convenient oral treatment for this important and costly disease and can be applied to all exposed pigs within a barn."

Dr Hammer said that early identification of SRD and appropriate therapeutic treatment helps reduce losses. Proper diagnosis will help determine the different pathogens present so the most effective prevention and treatment options can be implemented.

"It’s important for producers to work with their veterinarians and regularly submit diagnostic samples to a veterinary diagnostic lab," added Dr Hammer. "By doing so, producers can maintain a precise understanding of which infectious pathogens are circulating within their units, and work with their veterinarians to ensure a targeted therapeutic treatment programme is implemented when needed."

Florvio can help to reduce the economic and production losses caused by SRD. Fast, effective treatment of respiratory disease can improve health as measured by mortality rate, sort loss, days to market, feed efficiency, cull rate and cost of repeated treatment.

Swine intended for human consumption must not be slaughtered within 16 days of the last treatment. Use of Florvio in a manner other than indicated or with dosages in excess of those included on the label may result in illegal drug residues in edible tissues.

The effects of florfenicol on swine reproductive performance, pregnancy and lactation have not been determined. Florvio should not be used in swine intended for breeding. To view the full Florvio product label visit ah.novartis.us/livestock/swine-florvio.shtml.

For more information about Florvio, contact your Novartis Animal Health representative, animal health supplier or visit www.ah.novartis.us.

References

1. Freedom of Information, NADA 141-206: NUFLOR 2.3 per cent Concentrate Solution, September 4, 2002.
2. National Animal Health Monitoring System. 1996. Swine `95.
3. USDA 2007 Swine 2006 Part 1: Reference of Swine Health and Management in the United States, 2006. Fort Collins, CO: USDA APHIS: VS, CEAH; 2007. Publication N475, 1007.