FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BRIDGEWATER, N.J. (July 9, 2002) - ANTIROBE(R) (clindamycin hydrochloride) Capsules, one of the most widely used antibiotics for dogs and cats, has just become even more valuable with new clearances from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The FDA approved a new dosage range for the product, plus a 300 mg capsule dosage option, giving veterinarians more choices in prescribing the antibiotic.

ANTIROBE, manufactured and marketed by Pharmacia Animal Health, is approved for treatment of skin infections (abscesses and wounds), including those caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus intermedius. ANTIROBE also is approved for dental infections and osteomyelitis. The new dosage range means that it's now labeled for administration at 2.5 to 15.0 mg per pound of body weight every 12 hours for dogs with skin infections (wounds and abscesses), or dental infections. The dosage range for dogs with osteomyelitis is 5.0 to 15.0 mg every 12 hours. Its label indicates that treatment may be continued up to a maximum of 28 days.

For cats with skin infections (wounds and abscesses) or dental infections, ANTIROBE can be given at 5.0 to 15.0 mg per pound of body weight every 24 hours. Treatment may be continued up to a maximum of 14 days if clinical judgment indicates.

John Rehak, DVM, technical services consultant for Pharmacia, points out that the new clearance further expands the drug's value to companion animal veterinarians and their clients.

"The new dosage range provides more convenience and flexibility to veterinarians," he says. "It allows them to design the best therapy protocol based on the needs of each individual patient."

The new 300 mg capsule dosage also is significant, Rehak notes. "The 300 mg capsules provide veterinarians with the same ANTIROBE quality, safety and benefits in a more convenient dosage for larger dogs."

He adds: "The bottom line is that these new clearances are a result of an effort to allow companion animal veterinarians more choices when prescribing ANTIROBE products."

Both 150 mg and 300 mg dosages now are available as blister packs.

ANTIROBE is a prescription product and should be used only under the advice and prescription of a licensed veterinarian. In clinical trials, vomiting and diarrhea were occasionally observed.

For additional information, visit the ANTIROBE Web site at www.antirobe.com.

Pharmacia Animal Health, a division of Pharmacia Corporation, is dedicated to developing products that promote the health of pets and livestock throughout the world. Pharmacia Corporation (NYSE:PHA) is a top-tier global pharmaceutical company with a leading agricultural subsidiary. Pharmacia's innovative medicines and other products save lives and enhance health and wellness. Pharmacia's 59,000 people work together with many diverse stakeholders to bring these benefits to people around the world, and to create new health solutions for the future.

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CONTACT:
Shannon Buskohl
(319) 233-0502
SBuskohl@Morganmyers.com

Joseph Burkett
(616) 833-2693
Joseph.S.Burkett@Pharmacia.com

See also:
Veterinary Q & A: Dental care for Pets
The Importance of Dental Care for Pets
The News Archives
For additional Pharmacia press releases (various topics)