Ivermectin

Ivermectin In Dogs & Cats: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

• Interacts with GABA and glutamate-gated channels leading to flaccid paralysis of parasites.

Uses of Ivermectin

• Authorized for (Otodectes cynotis) infestation in cats.
• Also used for dogs with generalized demodicosis, sarcoptic acariasis or cheyletiellosis, and cats with cheyletiellosis when approved treatments have failed or cannot be employed.
• The use of this product has generally been superceded by the development of safer, licensed ectoparasiticides.

Dose of Ivermectin in Dogs and Cats

Dogs:

• Generalized demodicosis: 300–600 μg (micrograms)/kg p.o. daily.
• Effective for sarcoptic mange :(200–400 μg/kg p.o., s.c. q2wks for 4–6 weeks).
• Effective for cheyletiellosis: (200–300 μg/kg p.o., s.c.q1–2 weeks for 6–8 weeks).

Cats:

• Otoacariasis (Otodectes cynotis infestation): apply ear gel weekly for 3 weeks.
• Generalized demodicosis: 300–600 μg (micrograms)/kg p.o. daily.

Side Effects of Ivermectin in Dogs and Cats

• Neurotoxicity may be seen if it crosses mammalian blood–brain barrier.

Contraindications of Ivermectin in Dogs and Cats

• Administration to collies and related breeds is not recommended.
• Consider multiple drug resistance gene testing in these breeds before use.
• Highly toxic to aquatic organisms.

Some Notes:

• Dose adjustments may be required when administered concurrently with other therapeutic agents transported by P-glycoprotein.