Ivermectin Injection for Pigs: Innovations in Swine Health

Introduction

Ivermectin Injection is a widely used parasiticide for pigs and swine, effective against a variety of parasites.

 

Indications

Ivermectin injection is effective against a variety of internal and external parasites in pigs, including:

Internal Parasites: Such as roundworms (Ascaris suum), lungworms, and whipworms.

External Parasites: Such as lice, mites, and certain types of ticks.

 

Dosage and Administration

Dosage: The recommended dose level is generally 1 ml of Ivermectin per 33 kg of body weight (300 µg of ivermectin per kg of body weight).

Administration: Ivermectin injection is given subcutaneously in the pig’s neck. The animal should be properly restrained to achieve the correct route of administration. A 16 or 18-gauge needle is recommended for sows and gilts, while an 18 or 20-gauge needle may be suitable for young pigs. After subcutaneous administration, some pigs may experience a mild and transient painful reaction.

*In young pigs, especially those below 16 kg, less than 0.5 ml of Ivermectin Injection should be used. Dosing accuracy is important.

 

Withdrawal Period

There is a withdrawal period for ivermectin injection in pigs, meaning that treated animals should not be slaughtered for food until a specified time has passed after treatment. It is generally 28 days for pigs.

 

Consideration for Use

1. Sterility requirements: As with any injection, sterile equipment should be used. The injection site should be cleaned and disinfected with alcohol prior to injection. The rubber stopper should also be disinfected with alcohol to prevent contamination of the contents.

2. Resistance Management: Overuse of ivermectin can lead to resistance in parasites. It is advisable to rotate antiparasitic treatments and implement integrated parasite management strategies.

3. Monitoring and Assessment: Regularly monitor the health of your pigs and conduct fecal exams to assess the effectiveness of treatment. Adjust treatment protocols based on these observations.

4. Veterinary Guidance: Always consult with a veterinarian before administering ivermectin to ensure it is appropriate for the specific health status and parasite load of the pigs.

 

Precautions for Using Ivermectin Injection in Pigs at Different Stages

1. Piglet

Piglets at 45 days of age are weak and are susceptible to parasitic infections. Deworming at this time can protect pigs from parasites.

2. Feeder Pig

Pigs start fattening from 90 days of age. At this time, ivermectin medication can help reduce losses caused by parasitic infections.

3. Fattening Pig

Deworming is carried out at around 135 days of age (in the middle of fattening) to protect pigs from parasitic infections before they are marketed, which can reduce losses caused by parasitic diseases.

4. Sows

It is best to deworm sows before mating or after giving birth.

The best time for sows to be dewormed when sows are infected with parasites: 1 to 2 weeks before giving birth, because the empty time is short and the lactation period is dangerous for piglets. Subcutaneous injections of sows must be done with short needles (12# needles with a length of 12-15mm). Do not use the 16# long needles commonly used by sows. Otherwise, the injection will be injected into the deep muscles of the sows and directly absorbed by the capillaries, which will not achieve the purpose of sustained release and long-term effect, and the deworming effect will be greatly reduced.

5. Breeding pigs

It is best to deworm breeding pigs regularly, 3-4 times a year. If the parasites are more serious, emergency deworming can be performed.

6. Special Pig Herds

When the parasite situation is more serious, the entire herd can be dewormed urgently, and regular deworming can be switched after 1-2 months.

 

Conclusion

Ivermectin injection is a valuable tool for managing parasitic infections in pigs, contributing to their overall health and productivity. Proper usage, adherence to withdrawal times, and veterinary consultation are essential for safe and effective treatment. If you have any other ideas, welcome to share them with Gnee.