Field trials in New Zealand confirming the efficacy of eprinomectin applied topically to cattle

Authors: Eagleson JS, Allerton GR, Plue RE, Gogolewski RP
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 45, Issue 2, pp 78-79, Apr 1997
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Cattle, Livestock, Production animal, Ruminant
Subject Terms: Alimentary system/gastroenterology, Animal remedies/veterinary medicines, Anthelmintics, Parasite control, Parasites - internal, Treatment/therapy, Nematode, Research/development
Article class: Short Communication

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Abstract: The efficacy and acceptability of eprinomectin in a topical formulation against gastro-intestinal nematodes in cattle was assessed under field conditions. Seven similar commercial dairy farms in the North and South Islands of New Zealand were included in the studies, involving 247 Holstein-Friesian, Jersey or Jersey-cross cattle. Cattle were confirmed by positive faecal nematode egg counts to have natural infections of gastro-intestinal nematodes and were held in separate treatment groups. In each replicate, four animals received eprinomectin (500 µg/kg body weight) and one animal received vehicle solution, all applied topically at 1 ml/10 kg body weight. Faecal samples were collected before, and 14 days after treatment, for faecal  trongylid egg counts. Animals treated with eprinomectin had significantly lower (p < 0.05) Day 14 faecal strongylid egg counts than the controls. There were no significant differences (p > 0.10) between treated and control groups for pretreatment strongylid egg counts. No formulation runoff or adverse reactions were observed. These studies showed eprinomectin to be effective against gastro-intestinal nematode infections and safe for use in dairy cattle under natural field conditions.

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