Vetdrugs 2.0Rafoxanide is a salicylanilide flukicide used in ruminants against susceptible adult and selected immature liver-fluke stages. It also has activity against certain blood-feeding nematodes in some products. Its principal clinical role is fasciolosis, with the useful developmental-stage coverage dependent on parasite age, host and formulation.
Group
Salicylanilide flukicide
Mechanism of Action
Rafoxanide acts as a proton ionophore and uncouples mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. Dissipation of the proton gradient impairs ATP generation and depletes the parasite’s usable energy supply. Metabolic failure then disrupts maintenance and survival of susceptible stages. Protein-bound systemic exposure contributes to activity against parasites obtaining nutrients from host blood or tissues.
Dose Rates
Cattle
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fasciolosis | 7.5 mg/kg | PO | Once | Livestock treatment-guidance regimen; distinct from the higher Ranide cattle label dose. |
| Fasciolosis - Ranide regimen | 11.25 mg/kg | PO | Once | Ranide product-specific cattle regimen; do not replace the separate 7.5 mg/kg guidance by a midpoint. |
Sheep
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fasciolosis | 7.5 mg/kg | PO | Once | Ranide 30 mg/mL oral drench regimen. |
Indications
- Treatment of fasciolosis caused by susceptible adult or supported late-immature Fasciola hepatica or F. gigantica in cattle and sheep.
- Treatment of selected susceptible blood-feeding nematodes, including supported Haemonchus or Bunostomum infections, with a corresponding ruminant product.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity; avoid dosing errors and use particular care in debilitated animals.
Interactions
- Do not combine flukicides without a verified protocol.
Adverse effects
- Reduced appetite, diarrhoea or neurologic signs can occur with excessive exposure.
Toxicity
Overdose may cause neurologic and visual injury; no specific antidote is established.
Preparations
| Preparation | Form | Strength | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ranide oral drench 30 mg/mL Univet Ltd. Cattle and sheep doses differ; follow the matching regimen. | Oral Liquid | 30 mg / mL | PO |
Monitoring and Administration
Weigh accurately and shake suspensions. Product-specific cattle doses differ; do not merge them into a single arbitrary range.
Assess response and parasite resistance. Withdrawal periods depend on product and jurisdiction.