Overview
Cefapirin is a β-lactam antibiotic belonging to the first-generation cephalosporin class, developed for both human and veterinary applications. Its molecular structure contains the characteristic cephalosporin nucleus with a pyridinyl side chain, contributing to its antimicrobial activity. While its use in human medicine has declined due to newer alternatives, it remains important in veterinary practice, particularly for intramammary administration in dairy cows. As a bactericidal agent, cefapirin works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It demonstrates good activity against Gram-positive organisms including Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus spp., with more limited effectiveness against Gram-negative bacteria. The sodium salt formulation is most commonly used in commercial preparations due to improved solubility characteristics.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Cefapirin presents as a white to off-white crystalline powder with moderate solubility in aqueous solutions. The compound shows stability in its dry form but undergoes gradual hydrolysis when in solution, particularly at neutral to alkaline pH levels. Its molecular weight of 423.46 g/mol reflects the typical size range for first-generation cephalosporins. The antibiotic demonstrates optimal stability at pH values between 4-6, with degradation accelerating outside this range. Thermal analysis shows decomposition beginning around 180°C, which is characteristic of many β-lactam antibiotics. Spectroscopic properties include UV absorption maxima at 270 nm, useful for analytical quantification methods in quality control processes.
Main Applications
In contemporary practice, cefapirin is primarily employed in veterinary medicine for the treatment of bovine mastitis, administered via intramammary infusion. Its spectrum of activity makes it particularly effective against common mastitis pathogens including Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae, and Streptococcus dysgalactiae. The antibiotic is typically formulated as a sterile powder or ready-to-use suspension for this application. Additional veterinary uses include systemic treatment of respiratory infections in livestock when administered parenterally. Some specialty applications exist in aquaculture for controlling bacterial infections in fish farming operations. In human medicine, its use has been largely superseded by newer cephalosporins with improved pharmacokinetic profiles and broader spectrums of activity.
Safety and Storage
Proper handling of cefapirin requires standard precautions for antibiotic substances, including the use of gloves and protective eyewear to prevent accidental exposure. The compound should be stored in tightly sealed containers under refrigeration (2-8°C) to maintain stability, with protection from light and moisture. Desiccants are recommended in storage containers to prevent hydrolysis. From a safety perspective, cefapirin may cause sensitization in individuals with penicillin allergies due to potential cross-reactivity. Proper withdrawal periods must be observed in food-producing animals to prevent antibiotic residues in milk or meat. Spills should be contained and cleaned immediately using appropriate disinfectants to prevent environmental contamination or development of resistant bacterial strains.
B2B Procurement Guide
When procuring cefapirin for commercial or veterinary use, buyers should prioritize suppliers who provide comprehensive certificates of analysis including purity (typically ≥98%), heavy metal content, and residual solvent data. The procurement process should verify proper cold chain logistics for transport and storage, as temperature excursions can compromise product stability. Quality assessment should include testing for crystallinity and water content, as amorphous forms or excess moisture can indicate improper handling. For formulation purposes, particle size distribution may be an important specification. Buyers should establish relationships with GMP-certified manufacturers and consider minimum order quantities that balance cost efficiency with product turnover rates to ensure freshness.
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