Amitraz

Amitraz: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

• Octopine receptor agonist in the parasite can cause separation and death. has limited H1 receptor activity as well as alpha-2 adrenergic action.

Uses of Amitraz

• Treatment for widespread mite infestations with dipping  (canine demodicosis, sarcoptic acariasis and cheyletiellosis).
• Diluted concentrated liquid is applied as a dip and left on the coat.
• The penetration of dip will be improved by clipping long hairy coats.
• After using a spot-on treatment, animals should wait 48 hours before taking a bath or allowed to swim.

Dose of Amitraz in Dogs and Cats

Dogs:

• Generalized demodicosis: 0.05% solution (1 ml Aludex in 100 ml water) q5–7 days until 2 negative skin scrapings/hair plucks are achieved 2 weeks apart.

• Sarcoptic acariasis: 0.025% solution (1 ml Aludex in 200 ml water) weekly for 2–6 weeks.

Cats:

Do not use.

Side Effects of Amitraz in Dogs and Cats

• Sedation and bradycardia.
• Can cause irritation of the skin.
• Emesis and diarrhoea.
• Rarely, CNS depression is also seen.

Contraindications of Amitraz in Dogs and Cats

• Do not use in dogs <3 months (<8 weeks or <2 kg body weight for spot-on product).
• Do not use on dogs with heat stress.
• Do not use in Chihuahuas, cats or diabetic animals.

Some Notes:

Do not use concurrent with an alpha-2 agonist sedative or other ectoparasiticides.