Vetdrugs 2.0Eprinomectin is an avermectin macrocyclic lactone used against nematodes and selected ectoparasites. Its major livestock role is parasite control in cattle, using topical or extended-release injectable formulations. In cats, it is included in combination products to provide heartworm prevention and treatment of selected nematodes, while companion ingredients provide additional parasite coverage.
Group
Macrocyclic lactone antiparasitic
Mechanism of Action
Eprinomectin increases chloride conductance through parasite glutamate-gated chloride channels. Hyperpolarization of susceptible nerve and muscle cells impairs normal movement and feeding, leading to paralysis and death. This explains its activity against nematodes and selected arthropods. In feline combination products, eprinomectin provides the macrocyclic-lactone component of activity, while praziquantel supplies the separate cestocidal mechanism.
Dose Rates
Cattle
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parasite control | 0.5 mg/kg | TOPICAL | Once | Pour along backline from shoulder to tailhead. |
| Extended-release parasite control | 1 mg/kg | SC | Once | Only the appropriate extended-release injectable formulation. |
Cat
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Combination parasite control | Reference only | TOPICAL | Eprinomectin 0.5 mg/kg plus praziquantel 10 mg/kg in the specified combination product. Use its whole applicator instructions; generic single-component calculation is not appropriate. |
Horse
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psoroptic mange | 0.5 mg/kg | TOPICAL | Every 168 h | Four treatments for P. equi in the described study; evidence is limited to that protocol. |
Indications
- Treatment and control of susceptible gastrointestinal nematodes and lungworms in cattle.
- Treatment and control of selected cattle lice, mange mites, grubs and flies with a product indicated for those parasites.
- Prevention of feline heartworm disease caused by Dirofilaria immitis using an indicated combination product.
- Treatment and control of selected feline roundworms and hookworms within an indicated combination product.
- Treatment of mixed feline parasite infestations with eprinomectin-containing combinations, with tapeworm coverage provided by praziquantel and other coverage determined by the companion ingredients.
Contraindications
- High-dose exposure in ABCB1-sensitive dogs
- Formulation-specific restrictions for extended-release injection
Interactions
- P-glycoprotein inhibitors may increase neurotoxicity.
Adverse effects
- Neurotoxicity with overdose or increased CNS exposure
Preparations
| Preparation | Form | Strength | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eprinomectin pour-on 5 mg/mL | Other | 5 mg / mL | TOPICAL |
| Eprinomectin extended-release injection 50 mg/mL | Injection | 50 mg / mL | SC |
| Eprinomectin/praziquantel feline topical Combination product; do not calculate as interchangeable single-active eprinomectin. | Other | eprinomectin 4 mg / mL + praziquantel 83 mg / mL | TOPICAL |
Monitoring and Administration
Monitor fecal or skin parasite response. Cattle pour-on and extended-release injection are not interchangeable.
Tapeworm activity of feline combinations is due to praziquantel. Canine heartworm and equine regimens are not established in the supplied source.