Pharmacokinetics of enrofloxacin following intravenous and intramuscular administration in Angora rabbits

The pharmacokinetic behaviour and bioavailability of enrofloxacin (ENR) were determined after single intravenous (iv) and intramuscular (im) administrations of 5 mg/kg bw to six healthy adult Angora rabbits. Plasma ENR concentrations were measured by high performance liquid chromatography. The pharmacokinetic data were best described by a two-compartment open model. ENR pharmacokinetic parameters were similar (p > 0.05) for iv and im administrations in terms of AUC0-∞, t1/2β and MRT. ENR was rapidly (t1/2a, 0.05 h) and almost completely (F, 87%) absorbed after im injection. In conclusion, the pharmacokinetic properties of ENR following iv and im administration in Angora rabbits are similar to other rabbit breeds, and once or twice daily iv and im administrations of ENR at the dose of 5 mg/kg bw, depending upon the causative pathogen and/or severity of disorders, may be useful in treatment of infectious diseases caused by sensitive pathogens in Angora rabbits. © 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.