Sulfonamides are being widely used for the treatment of various systemic bacterial infections in ruminants. The percise knowledge regarding dosage regimen for sulfonamides derivatives, necessitates detailed pharmacokinetic studies of such drugs in the different animal species to which these drugs are administered. Extensive studies were undertaken concerning the rate of absorption, distribution and elimination of this group of drugs by many investigators.
After intramuscular administration, sulfonamides cause local irritation at the injection site (with tissue necrosis) associated with poor availability. A fundamental aspect of great importance in the use of sulfonamides and other compounds in ruminants is the question of oral bioavailability and the consequent blood concentrations which are obtained. Keeping in view pharmacokinetic properties of these drugs, including protein binding and bioavailability, could be useful for designing adequate oral administration schedules. Possible relations between physicochemical properties and/or pharmacokinetic parameters were studied. The detail of disposition kinetics and dosage schedule of some sulfonamides have been well investigated in cattle, sheep and goats.
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