DECTOMAX^®

Pfizer Animal Health

(doramectin)

Pour-On

Antiparasitic

0.5% pour-on solution for cattle

5 mg/mL

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: Dectomax Pour-On solution is a ready-to-use, systemically active, clear, light blue solution containing 0.5% w/v doramectin (5 mg/mL). It is formulated to deliver the recommended dosage of 500 mcg/kg (227 mcg/lb) of body weight when given by topical administration at the rate of 1 mL/22 lb (10 kg) of body weight.

PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS: Dectomax Pour-On solution is a highly active, broad-spectrum parasiticide for topical administration to cattle. It contains doramectin, a novel fermentation-derived macrocyclic lactone discovered by Pfizer Inc. Doramectin is isolated from fermentations of selected strains derived from the soil organism Streptomyces avermitilis.

A primary mode of action of macrocyclic lactones is to modulate chloride ion channel activity in the nervous system of nematodes and arthropods. Macrocyclic lactones bind to receptors that increase membrane permeability to chloride ions. This inhibits the electrical activity of nerve cells in nematodes and muscle cells in arthropods and causes paralysis and death of the parasites. In mammals, the neuronal receptors to which macrocyclic lactones bind are localized within the central nervous system (CNS), a site reached by only negligible concentrations of doramectin.

One dose of Dectomax Pour-On solution effectively treats and controls a wide range of roundworm and arthropod parasites that impair the health and productivity of cattle.

Studies have demonstrated the safety margin of doramectin. In USA trials, no toxic signs were seen in cattle given up to 25 times the recommended dose of Dectomax Injectable solution. A study using Dectomax Injectable solution also demonstrated safety in neonatal calves treated with up to 3 times the recommended dose. In breeding animals (bulls, and cows during folliculogenesis, organogenesis, implantation, and through gestation), a dose 3 times the recommended dose of Dectomax Injectable solution had no effect on breeding performance. A pharmacokinetic study demonstrated that systemic exposure to doramectin from Dectomax Pour-On was less than systemic exposure to doramectin from Dectomax Injectable solution.

PRODUCT INDICATIONS: Dectomax Pour-On solution is indicated for the treatment and control of the following species of gastrointestinal roundworms, lungworms, eyeworms, grubs (see PRECAUTIONS), biting and sucking lice, horn flies, and mange mites in cattle. Consult your veterinarian for assistance in the diagnosis, treatment, and control of parasitism.

Gastrointestinal roundworms

  Ostertagia ostertagi (adults and L₄, including inhibited larvae)

  O. lyrata (adults)

  Haemonchus placei (adults and L₄)

  Trichostrongylus axei (adults)

  T. colubriformis (adults and L₄)

  Cooperia oncophora (adults¹ and L₄)

  C. pectinata (adults)

  C. punctata (adults and L₄)

  C. surnabada (adults)

  Bunostomum phlebotomum (adults)

  Oesophagostomum radiatum (adults and L₄)

  Trichuris spp. (adults).

¹ Efficacy below 90% was observed against adult C. oncophora in some clinical studies.

Dectomax Pour-On solution has been proved to effectively control infections and to protect cattle from reinfection with Cooperia oncophora and Dictyocaulus viviparus for 21 days; Ostertagia ostertagi, Cooperia punctata, and Oesophagostomum radiatum for 28 days; and Haemonchus placei for 35 days after treatment.

Management Considerations for Horn Flies

Dectomax Pour-On solution provides 7 days of persistent activity against horn flies. The product should be used as part of an integrated control program and be combined with other methods for extended horn fly control. For optimal horn fly control, consult with your veterinarian or a livestock entomologist.

DOSAGE: Administer Dectomax Pour-On solution to cattle topically at a dosage of 500 mcg doramectin per kg (227 mcg/lb) of body weight. Each mL contains 5 mg of doramectin, sufficient to treat 22 lb (10 kg) of body weight.

For the best results, Dectomax Pour-On solution should be a part of a parasite control program for both internal and external parasites based on the epidemiology of these parasites. Consult a veterinarian or an entomologist for information regarding the most effective timing of applications.

ADMINISTRATION: Dectomax Pour-On solution should be applied topically along the mid-line of the back in a narrow strip between the withers and tailhead.

Dosing Cup (250-mL and 1-L bottles)

A dosing cup is provided for use with Dectomax Pour-On solution supplied in 250-mL and 1-L bottles. The Dectomax Pour-On solution dosing cup should be installed by rotating the cup on the bottle neck until tight. When installed correctly, the spout is aligned at the mid-point on the wide side of the bottle.

The curved end of the dosing cup tube should be positioned at the bottom of the bottle on the side opposite the spout. When the dosing cup is in the closed position (“zero” at set dosage mark on screw), product does not enter the cup reservoir. Select a dose [1 mL per 22 lb (10 kg) of body weight] by twisting the dosing screw on the top of the dosing cup to the desired position. The first complete turn of the dosing screw will set the dose at 10 mL (“10” shows on the screw at set dose mark). Each additional turn increases the dose in 5 mL increments until a maximum dose of 50 mL (“50” is the bottom number showing on screw at the set dose mark) is reached. When body weight is between weight markings on the dosing cup, use the higher dose volume.

To fill the dosing reservoir, hold the bottle upright and squeeze it until a slight excess has been delivered as indicated by the calibration lines. Release the pressure and excess will automatically drain from the reservoir and return to the bottle.

Tilt the bottle to deliver the dose. Dectomax Pour-On solution should be delivered to cattle on the back in a single pass from the withers to the tailhead.

Applicators (2.5-L and 5-L bottles)

Applicators are available for use with Dectomax Pour-On solution supplied in 2.5- and 5-L backpacks. Directions for 2 recommended applicators are provided below. Some applicators may be incompatible with this formulation.

Phillips Pour-on Applicator System

1. Replace the shipping cap on 2.5- or 5-L backpack with the draw-off cap provided and tighten firmly.

2. Thread the draw-off tubing through the anti-kink spring. Attach the tube to the draw-off cap. Screw the spring counter clockwise over the tubing and draw-off spigot.

3. Invert the backpack.

4. Set the dose to maximum (50 mL). Gently prime the applicator, checking for leaks. To prime, place the nozzle into a clean, dry receptacle and depress lever fully. Pump 3-4 short strokes ensuring that the piston reaches the end of the cylinder, and then release the lever completely to fill the cylinder. A small air bubble may appear within the cylinder. This will not affect the dosing accuracy.

5. Set the required dose and administer.

6. To disconnect the system, proceed as follows:

  a) Set backpack in upward position.

  b) Discharge residual material from the applicator and draw-off tubing into a separate,
      clean, dry receptacle.

7. Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for care and maintenance of the dosing applicator.

8. Remove the draw-off cap. Replace with the original cap and tighten firmly.

Syrvet Pour-on Applicator System

1. Replace the shipping cap on the 2.5- or 5-L backpack with the draw-off cap provided and tighten firmly.

2. Thread the draw-off tubing through the anti-kink spring. Attach the tube to the draw-off cap. Screw the spring clockwise over the tubing and draw-off spigot.

3. Invert the backpack.

4. Set the dose at the maximum (50 mL) by unscrewing the adjuster at the base of the handle. Gently prime the applicator, checking for leaks. To prime, point the nozzle into a clean, dry receptacle and gently pump the lever back and forth to expel air from the system. When the barrel completely fills after every priming stroke, set the dose.

5. Set the dose as follows:

  a) Use the handle to align the middle of the blue plunger ring with the chosen mark on
      the barrel. Tighten the adjuster screw against the handle.

  b) Secure the dose with the adjuster screw locknut.

Note: Dose accuracy can be checked by dispensing a known number of set doses into a measuring cylinder. Correct any inaccuracy by adjusting the dose setting screw. Repeat this procedure until desired accuracy is achieved.

6. Administer each dose by fully depressing the handle so that the plunger travels its entire set length. Release the handle and the applicator will automatically refill.

7. To disconnect the system proceed as follows:

  a) Set backpack in upward position.

  b) Discharge residual material from the applicator and draw-off tubing into a separate,
      dry receptacle.

8. Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for care and maintenance of the dosing applicator.

9. Remove the draw-off cap. Replace with the original cap and tighten firmly.

WARNING: Flammable! Keep away from heat, sparks, open flame, and other sources of ignition. Not for human use. Keep out of reach of children. The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) contains more detailed occupational safety information. To report adverse effects in users, to obtain more information, or to obtain an MSDS, call 1-800-366-5288.

Dectomax Pour-On solution for cattle may be irritating to human skin and eyes, and users should be careful not to apply it to themselves or to other persons. Operators should wear protective clothing including a long-sleeved shirt, rubber gloves, and boots with a waterproof coat when applying the product. Protective clothing should be washed after use. If accidental skin contact occurs, wash the affected area immediately with soap and water. If accidental eye exposure occurs, flush the eyes immediately with water and get medical attention.

PRECAUTIONS:

This product is to be applied to skin surface only. Do not administer orally or parenterally.

Do not apply to areas of skin which are caked with mud or manure.

Wash hands after use.

Do not smoke or eat while handling the product.

Cloudiness in the formulation may occur when Dectomax Pour-On solution is stored at temperatures below 0°C (32°F). Allowing to warm to room temperature will restore the normal appearance without affecting efficacy.

Dectomax Pour-On solution is highly effective against cattle grubs. However, proper timing of treatment is important. For most effective results, cattle should be treated as soon as possible after the end of the heel fly (warble) season.

Destruction of Hypoderma larvae (cattle grubs) at the period when these grubs are in vital areas may cause undesirable host-parasite reactions including the possibility of fatalities. Killing H. lineatum when it is in the tissue surrounding the gullet may cause bloat; killing H. bovis when it is in the vertebral canal may cause staggering or paralysis. These reactions are not specific to treatment with Dectomax Pour-On solution, but can occur with any successful treatment of grubs. Cattle should be treated either before or after the migratory phase of grub development. Consult your veterinarian concerning the proper time for treatment.

Cattle treated with Dectomax Pour-On solution after the end of heel fly season may be re-treated with Dectomax Pour-On during the winter for internal parasites, mange mites, or biting and sucking lice, without danger of grub-related reactions. A planned parasite control program is recommended.

USE CONDITIONS: Varying weather conditions, including rainfall, do not affect the efficacy of Dectomax Pour-On.

Caution: Dectomax Pour-On solution has been developed specifically for use in cattle only. This product should not be used in other animal species as severe adverse reactions, including fatalities in dogs, may result.

ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY: Studies indicate that when doramectin comes in contact with the soil, it readily and tightly binds to the soil and becomes inactive over time. Free doramectin may adversely affect fish or certain water-borne organisms on which they feed. Do not permit cattle to enter lakes, streams or ponds for at least 6 hours after treatment. Do not contaminate water by direct application or by the improper disposal of drug containers. Dispose of containers in an approved landfill or by incineration.

Store Below 30°C (86°F)

Protect From Light

HOW SUPPLIED: Dectomax Pour-On solution is available in 250-mL, 1-L, 2.5-L, and 5-L multi-dose containers.

NADA #141-095, Approved by FDA

Distributed by:

Pfizer Animal Health
Exton, PA 19341, USA
Div. of Pfizer Inc
NY, NY 10017

69-5269-00-4

September 1999

Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information published. However, it remains the responsibility of the readers to familiarize themselves with the product information contained on the product label or package insert. NAC No.: 36900321