Pfizer has received clearance and begun marketing a new anthelmintic, Dectomax, for cattle. It is labeled for control of a broad spectrum of internal and external parasites, including 36 stages of adult parasites, L4 larvae and inhibited larvae shown in the spectrum of control chart. Dectomax is labeled for extended activity in the animals' system. It is labeled to provide up to 21 days of protection against Ostertagia ostertagi. This means that it provides grater than 90% efficacy against any infective larvae surviving and becoming an adult if ingested within 21 days of administration.
Dectomax contains a one percent solution of Doramectin as the active ingredient in an oil based carrier. Doramectin induces a rapid nonspastic paralysis in nematodes and parasitic arthropods as the mode of parasite control. The recommended dosage is one mL per 110 pounds of body weight administered subcutaneously or intramuscularly. However, the Beef Quality Assurance guideline recommendation of subcutaneous administration is the preferred route. It is available in 100, 250, and 500 mL multi-dose, rubber capped amber glass bottles that are contained in a clear polycarbonate shield to reduce the possibility of breakage.
Dectomax is cleared for use in all beef cattle (including pregnant cows, bulls and calves) and dairy replacement heifers up to 20 months of age. Cattle must not be slaughtered for human consumption within 35 days of treatment. Calves that are to be processed for veal should not receive treatment. Dectomax is effective on grubs and, like other systemic treatments for grubs should not be used at times when grubs are in vital areas of the body unless the cattle have been previously treated for grubs due to the danger of host parasite reactions.