Injectable Ivermectin for Sheep: a Vital Tool for Sheep Farmers

Formulation

Injectable ivermectin is usually available in a sterile and aqueous solution.

 

Pharmacological Action

Ivermectin has a good killing effect on parasites inside and outside the body, especially arthropods and nematodes and liver flukes. It has selectivity and high affinity for invertebrate nerve and muscle cells, thereby interfering with the signal transmission between nerves and muscles, causing the parasite to relax and paralyze, leading to the death of the parasite or its excretion from the body.

 

Indications

Injectable Ivermectin is effective against a wide range of internal and external parasites in sheep.

Internal Parasites: Treats gastrointestinal roundworms, lungworms, and other nematodes.

External Parasites: Controls infestations like sheep scab (caused by mites), lice, and ticks.

 

Dosage and Administration

Dose Option: the recommended dosage for Ivermectin injection in sheep is 1 mL per 50 kg of body weight, which corresponds to 200 micrograms of ivermectin per kg.

Injection Sites: typically administered subcutaneously (under the skin) or intramuscularly (into the muscle). Subcutaneous injection is more common (as injecting in the neck area can largely minimize discomfort and complications).

*Notice:

When treating sheep groups, it’s recommended to use an automatic dosing device.

For optimal hygiene, replace the needle with a fresh sterile one after every 10 to 12 animals.

Avoid administering injections to wet or dirty sheep for safety and effectiveness.

 

Key Precautions

Withdrawal Period: There is a recommended withdrawal period for meat and milk sheep, which varies by country but is generally around 21 days for meat and 24 hours to several days for milk. This is to ensure that residues do not enter the human food chain.

Dosage Accuracy: Follow dosage guidelines precisely to avoid potential toxicity. Underdosing may not effectively control parasites) and overdosing can lead to toxicity or adverse reactions.

Handling: Handlers should wear protective gloves and avoid skin contact, as ivermectin can be absorbed transdermally.

 

Considerations

Resistance: As with all antiparasitics, there is a risk of parasites developing resistance to ivermectin. It is advisable to use it as part of a broader integrated pest management program and rotate with other antiparasitic agents.

Consultation: Always consult with a veterinarian before starting treatment to ensure it is appropriate for your flock’s specific needs and to confirm dosing and withdrawal times.

 

Benefits of Using Injectable Ivermectin for Sheep

Using ivermectin injection for sheep offers several significant benefits. Here are the key advantages:

1. Broad-spectrum Control

Ivermectin is effective against a wide range of both internal and external parasites in sheep. This broad-spectrum efficacy helps in protecting sheep from multiple parasitic diseases with a single medication.

2. Improved Health and Productivity

By controlling parasitic infections, ivermectin helps improve the overall health of the sheep, reducing morbidity and mortality rates. Moreover, healthier sheep are more productive, with better growth rates, improved fertility, and higher wool and milk production.

3. Ease of Administration

The injectable form of ivermectin ensures that the correct dosage is administered directly, providing more reliable and effective treatment compared to other forms like oral or pour-on treatments.

4. Cost-effectiveness

Although the initial cost of ivermectin might be higher compared to some other treatments, its broad-spectrum activity and high efficacy can lead to lower overall health management costs.

More importantly, since ivermectin covers a wide range of parasites, it reduces the need to purchase and administer multiple different parasiticides.

5. Long-lasting Effects

Ivermectin has a relatively long half-life in the sheep’s body, which provides prolonged protection against parasitic infections, reducing the frequency of treatments needed.

6. Safety Profile

When used according to the recommended dosages, ivermectin is generally safe and well-tolerated by sheep. The risk of adverse effects is low, making it a safe choice for widespread use in sheep flocks.

 

How Frequent can I Get Ivermectin Injected in my Sheep?

The frequency of ivermectin injections in sheep depends on several factors including the specific parasite control needs, the risk of parasite exposure, and the overall management practices of the flock.

Recommended Frequency

Routine Prevention: Typically, ivermectin is administered once or twice a year as part of a regular parasite control program. The exact timing can depend on the parasite’s lifecycle and the local climate, which influences parasite activity.

High-risk Periods: In areas or seasons with high parasite exposure, more frequent treatments might be necessary. This could mean administering ivermectin every 3 to 4 months.

Factors Influencing Frequency

Parasite Burden: Higher levels of infestation or evidence of clinical parasitism might necessitate more frequent treatments.

Environmental Conditions: Warm and moist conditions often lead to higher rates of parasite reproduction and survival, potentially requiring more frequent dosing.

Flock Management: Practices such as rotational grazing can help reduce parasite load and might reduce the need for frequent treatments.

 

Can Ivermectin be Injected in Pregnant Sheep?

Yes, ivermectin can be injected in pregnant sheep, but it should be done with caution and under veterinary supervision. Careful management and monitoring are essential to ensure the health and safety of both the pregnant sheep and their developing lambs.

 

Conclusion

Ivermectin injection is a crucial tool in sheep health management, offering effective control over a variety of parasitic infections. Proper administration and adherence to medication guidelines are essential to maximize benefits and minimize risks. If you have any other issues, feel free to ask Gnee Bio for help.