Effectiveness – Tissue penetration
The sulfamethoxazole (SMZ) in human tablets is not identical to the sulfadiazine (SDZ) used in UNIPRIM powder for horses. Sulfamethoxazole has poor tissue penetration gram for gram compared with that of sulfadiazine. Pharmacokinetic studies show higher distribution with sulfadiazine versus sulfamethoxazole held in tissue instead of in the blood. The end result is UNIPRIM reaches longer and higher tissue levels resulting in a more effective treatment.
Effectiveness – Absorption
UNIPRIM and human tablets both include trimethoprim (TMP) but the TMP in human tablets is micronized. Micronized particles are thought to bond to roughage in the horse’s digestive system, reducing absorption. UNIPRIM was designed to maximize TMP absorption while maintaining the horse’s usual dietary regimen.
Accuracy
Crushing and dissolving pills is an imperfect solution as these techniques are laborious and time consuming for administration. UNIPRIM doses can be carefully measured and adjusted, whether dispensed from a jar or packet.
Length of treatment
SMZ human tablets require a twice-a-day, 10-12 day course of treatment, while UNIPRIM requires only a daily dose for 5-7 days.
Convenience
Treating bacterial infections with SMZ tablets requires over a week of counting, crushing or mixing of pills. With UNIPRIM, dosing is easy and customizable. A typical course of treatment is comprised of five single-dose packets or one small jar (200 g). By combining packets and jars, veterinarians can create longer or multi-horse treatment options.
Cost
UNIPRIM is very cost effective compared with SMZ tablets, while providing a beneficial treatment more suited to the horse.
