Ivermectin

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Pronunciation

i-ver-MEK-tin - Pronunciation guide

Brand Names

  • Ivercide Equine Paste
  • Ivermax Equine Oral Liquid
  • Ivermax Equine Paste Dewormer
  • Ivermectin Paste 1.87%
  • Parid EQ Liquid for Horses

Description

Rx symbolIvermectin is a drug mixture of two structurally semisynthetic lactones that is used in veterinary medicine as an anthelmintic, boticide, acaricide, and insecticide. Ivermectin has a broad spectrum of activity against intestinal and insect parasites, and kills migrating larvae. Most veterinarians recommend its use in all horse deworming programs because of its results.

Injectible form is frequently used extra-label and requires veterinary prescription.

Usage

Under a veterinarian's assistance in the diagnosis, treatment, and control of parasites, ivermectin provides effective broad spectrum control of the following: bots, habronema, ascarids, strongyles, thread worms, pinworms, tape worms, lung worms, and is also effective against the filaria of Onchocerca, larvae of habronema, and arterial larvae stages of strongyles.

Dosage and Administration

Ivermectin
Method Dosage
(click row for calculator)
Concentration Period Duration
Oral paste1 0.2 mg/kg 136.5 mg/syringe Consult veterinarian4 NA
Oral liquid2 0.2 mg/kg 10 mg/ml Consult veterinarian4 NA
Intramuscular injection3 0.2 mg/kg 10 mg/ml Consult veterinarian4 NA

Notes:

  • 1Calibrated syringe with 1.87% ivermectin paste - see product label insert.
  • 2Administer with stomach tube or oral drench.
  • 3Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.
  • 3Extra-label use of drugs in treating animals is allowable only by licensed veterinarians within the context of a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and does not include drug use in treating animals by the layman (except under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian).
  • 4Consult your veterinarian for a control program to meet your specific needs.
  • Ivermectin may be used in horses of all ages, including mares at any stage of pregnancy and foals that are 6 to 8 weeks old.
  • New arrivals should be dewormed with ivermectin and quarantined for 3 weeks before being allowed in areas with resident horses.
  • Calculator is for educational purposes only. Follow your veterinarian's instructions regarding use of this, or any medication.

Side Effects

Swelling and itching reactions after treatment with ivermectin have occurred in horses with heavy infections of neck threadworm microfilariae. The reaction is most likely the result of microfilariae dying in large numbers. Symptomatic treatment may be advisable. Consult a veterinarian, should any reactions occur.

Precautions

Ivermectin is formulated specifically for use in horses. Do not use in treatment of any other animal species, as severe adverse reactions may occur. Wash hands after use. Avoid contact with eyes. Do not contaminate ground or surface water. Dispose of containers and syringes in approved landfill or by incineration.

Interactions

No interactions are noted in literature.

Overdose

Ivermectin is toxic. Immediately consult with a veterinarian if overdosing occurs.

Images

IverCare Injectable Paste IverCare Injectable Paste

ProMectin Ivermectin Oral Tablets ProMectin Ivermectin Oral Tablets

Literature

 

About the Author

EquiMed Staff

EquiMed staff writers team up to provide articles that require periodic updates based on evolving methods of equine healthcare. Compendia articles, core healthcare topics and more are written and updated as a group effort. Our review process includes an important veterinarian review, helping to assure the content is consistent with the latest understanding from a medical professional.

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