Oxyclozanide is an anthelmintic agent used in the treatment and control of liver fluke and tapeworm infestations in livestock. It is administered orally and acts by causing paralysis of the helminths. It is used in the prevention and treatment of Fasciola hepatica and Catenaria anguillulae in cattle, sheep and goats. It can also be used in the treatment of Taenia species in horses, mules and donkeys. It is available as an oral suspension, bolus or powder.
Oxyclozanide is a medication used to treat and control fluke infestations in animals, primarily targeting liver flukes and intestinal flukes in ruminants (cud-chewing animals) like sheep, cattle, and goats. Here's a breakdown of its key aspects:
Function:
- Acts as an antiparasitic medication specifically targeting trematodes, also known as flukes. Flukes are flatworms that can infect the livers and intestines of animals.
- Oxyclozanide works by disrupting the energy production of the fluke, leading to its death.
Applications:
- Primarily used in veterinary medicine to treat fluke infestations in:
- Sheep
- Cattle
- Goats
- Effective against various liver and intestinal fluke species, including Fasciola hepatica (common liver fluke) and Haemonchus contortus (barber's pole worm).
Important Considerations:
- Oxyclozanide is available in various formulations for veterinary use, including oral drenches, boluses (large pills administered orally), and pour-on formulations.
- It should only be administered to animals under the guidance and supervision of a veterinarian.
- Potential side effects in animals can include transient diarrhea and loss of appetite.
Here's some additional information about Oxyclozanide:
- Mechanism of Action: Oxyclozanide disrupts the fluke's mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, an essential process for energy production in the parasite.
- Not for human use: Oxyclozanide is a veterinary medication and should not be used in humans.
- Withdrawal times: There are specific waiting periods (withdrawal times) before the meat or milk from treated animals can be consumed for human safety.