Eli Lilly and Company has discontinued manufacture of all presentations of KefuroxÒ , KefzolÒ , and MandolÒ . Lilly has based this decision on many factors, including medical use, availability of alternative products, and market-share.

KefzolÒ and KefuroxÒ are no longer available, although Lilly has a limited inventory of cefuroxime available under private labels (expected to be available through June 2003). MandolÒ is expected to be available through April 2003.

These injectable cephalosporins are indicated for the treatment of a variety of bacterial infections. Cefazolin and cefuroxime are available from several manufacturers. Although no generic version of cefamandole is available, there are multiple therapeutic alternatives that provide a similar spectrum of activity, including cefuroxime, cefazolin, and several third-generation cephalosporins. As a result, Lilly does not expect the discontinuation of these products to impact patient care.

If you have a question regarding these products, please contact Lilly’s call center at
1-800-LILLYRX (available between 8:00 am and 7:00 pm EST, Monday through Friday).

Sincerely,

Elizabeth Sloan, PharmD

Director, US Regulatory Affairs