Amitraz (Mitaban®, Preventic®)
By: Dr. Dawn Ruben

Overview

Amitraz is a topical parasite control agent.

The action of amitraz is not thoroughly understood, but it is suspected to work by interfering with the nervous system of susceptible parasites.

Amitraz is often used in dogs for management of a serious skin parasite that causes demodectic mange.

Amitraz is also used for control of ticks in dogs.

Some forms of amitraz are available without a prescription but should not be administered unless under the supervision and guidance of a veterinarian.

Brand Names and Other Names

This drug is registered for use in animals only.

Human formulations: None

Veterinary formulations: Mitaban® (Upjohn), Preventic® (Allerderm/Virbac), Taktic® (Hoechst/Roussel) and various generic brands.

Uses of Amitraz

Amitraz is primarily used to treat the skin disease demodectic mange.

It is also used for tick prevention.

Precautions and Side Effects

While generally safe and effective when prescribed by a veterinarian, amitraz can cause side effects in some animals.

Amitraz should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug.

Amitraz should be avoided in animals less than four months of age.

Amitraz should not be used in cats.

Caution must be used in diabetic animals due to an effect on blood sugar (glucose). Diabetic people should avoid contact with amitraz.

Caution must be used when applying this to very small, toy breed dogs.

Amitraz may interact with other medications. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if other drugs your pet is receiving could interact with amitraz. Such drugs include corticosteroids and azathioprine.

Sedation may occur after administration of amitraz. This sedation may continue for up to 72 hours.

Ingestion of amitraz, especially when the drug is incorporated into tick collars, can lead to poisoning and toxicity.

How Amitraz Is Supplied

Amitraz is available as a 19.9 percent topical solution for dogs.

Amitraz collars include a 9 percent tick collar for dogs.

Dosing Information

Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian.

Long and medium-haired dogs should be clipped prior to administration of amitraz.

Place one 10.6 ml bottle of amitraz into two gallons of warm water; mix and apply to the dog using the instructions provided by the label or your veterinarian.

Allow the hair and skin to air dry (do not rinse off).

Repeat the treatment every 14 days for three to six treatments or as directed by your veterinarian.

The duration of administration depends on the condition being treated, response to the medication and the development of any adverse effects. Be certain to complete the prescription unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. Even if your pet feels better, the entire treatment plan should be completed to prevent relapse or prevent the development of resistance.

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Amitraz (Mitaban®, Preventic®)
By: Dr. Dawn Ruben

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Amitraz (Mitaban®, Preventic®)
By: Dr. Dawn Ruben