What is Amitraz?
Amitraz is a topical de-wormer for the treatment and control of helminthiasis and other external parasitic infections in livestock (e.g., cattle, sheep, goats, and swine) as well as companion animals (e.g., dogs and cats). This broad-spectrum ectoparasite insecticide is effective against fleas, scabies, lice, ticks and mites.
Amitraz has a lower toxicity intensity than many other topical antiparasitic drugs, making it a safe treatment option for many animals, including lactating dairy cows. It usually begins to work within 2 hours of application, but repeated treatments may be needed to treat complications such as mange or worms.
What is Amitraz used for?
It's used to treat and control ectoparasitic infections, including ticks, fleas, mites, and lice.
How is Amitraz Applied?
Inhibition of parasite neurotransmission: Amitraz is a pyridine insecticide that acts on the parasite's nervous system, interfering with neurotransmission, particularly through activation of octahydronaphthylamine receptors (OCT-1 receptors). The loss of control of the parasite's nervous system leads to paralysis of its muscles, loss of mobility, and ultimately death due to inability to feed and move.
Inhibition of cholinesterase activity: Amitraz blocks the breakdown of acetylcholine by inhibiting cholinesterase in the parasite. The continued accumulation of this neurotransmitter causes nerve overexcitation, which leads to nerve and muscle dysfunction in the parasite, resulting in paralysis and death.
Penetrate the skin and penetrate the worm burrows: Amitraz solution has good penetrability, which can penetrate the skin and hair of livestock, and penetrate deep into the worm burrows or worm tracts where the parasites hide. Especially for parasites hidden deep in the skin, such as scabies mites and ticks, amitraz solution can act directly to achieve deep deworming effect.
Preventing reinfection: After spreading on the skin surface of the animal, amitraz forms a long-lasting layer of drug, which effectively prevents new parasites from attaching, thus preventing reinfection. This mechanism enables amitraz solution to continue to protect livestock after killing worms.
What animals can be treated with Amitraz Dip Solution?
It is recommended for use in livestock, including sheep, cattle, swine, and goats, as well as pets, such as dogs and cats.
Side Effects of Amitraz
Common side effects include.
Sedation for up to 3 days BradycardiaGastrointestinal reactions (vomiting, diarrhea)
Serious side effects may include.
Allergic or hypersensitivity reactions.