Route-specific pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of Nitrofuran antibiotics in Sonali chicken predict veterinary therapeutic efficacy and residual effects for public health

Aim: This study investigates the bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of nitrofuran antibiotics in Sonali chickens, comparing four administration routes: oral (PO), intravenous (IV), subcutaneous (SC), and intramuscular (IM). Understanding these pharmacokinetic properties is crucial for optimizing therapeutic efficacy and minimizing residue risks in food safety. Methods: Four Sonali chickens were included in the study. Three chickens received 1 mL of nitrofuran (25 ng/mL) via PO, SC, and IM routes, while one was administered 2 ng/mL intravenously. Plasma samples were collected at predetermined intervals, and pharmacokinetic parameters such as plasma clearance rate and drug retention were analyzed. Results: Significant differences in bioavailability and pharmacokinetics were observed among the administration routes. The PO route exhibited rapid plasma concentration decline, with a clearance rate of 1.525 h⁻¹. In contrast, the IV route showed a slower reduction (0.662 h⁻¹) despite a lower administered dose. The SC route maintained higher plasma concentrations throughout the study, with the lowest clearance rate (0.280 h⁻¹), indicating prolonged drug retention. The IM route demonstrated a unique pattern with a transient plasma concentration increase at the second hour and a negative clearance rate (-0.701 h⁻¹), suggesting drug deposition in edible tissues, potentially contributing to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Conclusion: This study highlights the influence of administration routes on the bioavailability and elimination of nitrofuran antibiotics in Sonali chickens. The findings emphasize the need for careful selection of administration routes to balance therapeutic effectiveness while mitigating residue risks and AMR concerns in poultry production.