What is Gard Plus Injection?
Gard Plus injection is a powerful, broad-spectrum veterinary antibiotic designed to combat serious bacterial infections in livestock. It is manufactured by Virbac, a global leader in animal health, and is widely available in countries like India. The medication is composed of a synergistic combination of two active ingredients: Cefoperazone Sodium and Sulbactam Sodium. This dual-action formula allows it to fight against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including those that have developed resistance to certain antibiotics.
The formulation consists of a 4.5g vial, which contains 3000 mg of Cefoperazone Sodium and 1500 mg of Sulbactam Sodium. It is often prescribed by veterinarians for the treatment of conditions that can severely impact animal health and agricultural productivity. It is crucial to understand that Gard Plus is not an over-the-counter human medication and should only be administered by qualified veterinary professionals.
Therapeutic Applications of Gard Plus
Veterinarians recommend Gard Plus injection for a range of specific infections in cattle and other livestock. These include:
- Mastitis: An inflammation of the mammary gland and udder tissue, commonly found in dairy animals, often caused by bacterial infections.
- Pneumonia: A severe respiratory infection that can be life-threatening for livestock if left untreated.
- Metritis: An infection of the uterus, often affecting female animals postpartum, which can impact fertility and overall health.
- Septicemia: A severe, life-threatening infection of the bloodstream.
- Other soft tissue infections: Infections caused by a wide range of susceptible bacteria, targeting various tissues throughout the animal's body.
Factors Influencing the Price of Gard Plus Injection
Several key factors contribute to the final price of Gard Plus injection, which can vary significantly depending on the market and supplier. These include:
- Geographic location: The price is heavily dependent on the region. As evidence suggests, Gard Plus is widely distributed and produced for the Indian market by Virbac India, leading to different price points than what might be found in other countries.
- Distributor and retailer markup: The final price often includes markups from the distributor, wholesaler, and retailer. Veterinary clinics may also incorporate administration costs into their final charge for the treatment.
- Supply chain logistics: The costs associated with transporting and storing veterinary pharmaceuticals can add to the final price, especially for rural or remote areas.
- Currency exchange rates: For international purchases, the exchange rate can significantly affect the cost in a different currency. The listed price in Indian Rupees (₹) will translate differently depending on the prevailing exchange rate.
- Bulk purchasing and volume discounts: Larger veterinary clinics or farms purchasing the product in bulk may be eligible for volume-based discounts that are not available to individual buyers.
Cost Comparison: Gard Plus vs. Alternatives
Because Gard Plus is specific to certain markets, and its cost is influenced by many factors, it is helpful to compare it with other veterinary antibiotics that might be used for similar conditions in different regions. The table below provides an illustrative comparison, noting that prices and availability of alternatives can vary widely based on location and supplier.
| Antibiotic Product | Primary Active Ingredient(s) | Typical Use Cases | Price Context (Approximate) | Market/Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gard Plus Injection | Cefoperazone Sodium, Sulbactam Sodium | Mastitis, pneumonia, metritis in cattle | ~₹454 per 4.5g vial | Primarily Indian veterinary market |
| Draxxin Injectable Solution | Tulathromycin | Bovine respiratory disease (BRD), foot rot | Range from ~$66 to ~$555 (50ml to 500ml) | Widely available in US/Western markets |
| Excede Sterile Suspension | Ceftiofur Crystalline Free Acid | BRD, foot rot in cattle | Varies by supplier and volume | Widely available in US/Western markets |
| Tylan 50 Injection | Tylosin | BRD in beef cattle, pneumonia in swine | ~43 per 100mL vial | Widely available in US/Western markets |
Note: Prices for alternatives sourced from US-based livestock supply retailers and market data are presented here for comparative purposes. These should not be considered a direct substitution for Gard Plus without veterinary consultation, as the active ingredients and therapeutic focus are different.
How to Purchase and Ensure Proper Use
Due to its classification as a prescription-only veterinary medicine, Gard Plus injection cannot be purchased without a prescription from a licensed veterinarian. The procurement process typically involves:
- Diagnosis: A veterinarian must first diagnose the bacterial infection in the animal and determine if Gard Plus is the appropriate treatment.
- Prescription: The vet issues a prescription for the medication.
- Purchase: The animal owner can then purchase the medication from an authorized veterinary pharmacy or supplier, like those found in India.
- Administration: The vet or trained personnel administers the injection, as the dosage and administration route are critical for efficacy and safety.
It is imperative to follow the prescribed dosage and complete the entire course of treatment to prevent antibiotic resistance. Using the medication incorrectly can lead to ineffective treatment and contribute to the global problem of antimicrobial resistance. For more detailed information on the product, consult the manufacturer's resources, such as those provided by Virbac India, the primary supplier.
Conclusion
For those asking "what is the price of Gard Plus injection?", the answer is multi-layered. It is not a human medication but a veterinary antibiotic predominantly available in markets like India, where its cost hovers around ₹440-₹454 per 4.5g vial. Its price is influenced by geographical market, distribution channels, and currency exchange. Because it is a prescription veterinary medicine, a diagnosis and a prescription are mandatory for purchase. Farmers and pet owners should always consult a veterinarian for appropriate treatment options for their animals, especially when dealing with severe bacterial infections, as region-specific alternatives like Draxxin or Excede may be necessary depending on location. The price of this medication should always be considered alongside expert veterinary guidance to ensure the best possible health outcomes for livestock.
Authoritative Link
For more detailed product information, you can visit the manufacturer's official page: Virbac India.
