Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Toxic effects of macrocyclic lactones in dogs and cats
By Merola, Valentina M & Eubig, Paul A·Published in The Veterinary clinics of North America. Small animal practice·2012·ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Toxicology of avermectins and milbemycins (macrocylic lactones) and the role of P-glycoprotein in dogs and cats.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
Certain dog breeds, particularly those with a genetic defect in the ABCB1 gene, can be at risk for serious side effects if they are exposed to certain antiparasitic medications like ivermectin. This is because their bodies can't effectively remove these drugs from the brain, leading to toxic buildup. Unfortunately, there isn't a specific antidote for this type of poisoning, so the best approach is to provide supportive care to help the dog recover. If you have a breed that may be affected, it's important to discuss safe medication options with your veterinarian.
People also search for: dog ivermectin toxicity · breeds affected by ivermectin · dog support care for poisoning
Abstract
The macrocyclic lactones (MLs) are parasiticides able to kill a wide variety of arthropods and nematodes. They have a high margin of safety for labeled indications, and ivermectin has become the best-selling antiparasitic in the world. Dogs of certain breeds and mixtures of those breeds have a defect in the ABCB1 gene (formerly MDR1 gene) that results in a lack of functional P-glycoprotein, which leads to accumulation of the MLs in the central nervous system and a higher risk of adverse effects when exposed. There is no specific antidote for ML toxicosis so the most important part of treatment is good supportive care.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22381182/