[Effectiveness of ivermectin in Strongyloides westeri cases in foals].

Research Overview

This research paper investigates the effectiveness of the drug Ivermectin in treating Strongyloides westeri infections in foals – young horses. The study also compares the performance of Ivermectin to another drug, Mebendazol, in this regard.

Methodology and Drugs Used

• The researchers conducted tests for two medications, Ivermectin and Mebendazol, to observe their effectiveness against Strongyloides westeri infections.
• Ivermectin was given as a paste formulation, in a single dose of 200 micrograms per kilogram of body weight, administered orally.
• The application of Ivermectin was targeted at both the young horses and their pregnant mothers. This approach aimed to curtail the Strongyloides westeri infections in both these groups.
• In contrast, Mebendazol was given at a dosage rate of 8 mg/kg.

Method of Analysis

• The effectiveness of the treatments was assessed by examining fecal egg output reduction. This process involved the analysis of fecal samples from the infected horses to count the number of parasite eggs. A decrease in the number of these eggs after the administration of the drugs indicated the effectiveness of the treatment.

Research Findings

• The research found Ivermectin to demonstrate high efficacy against Strongyloides westeri infections. In other words, a significant reduction in the number of parasite eggs was observed following the use of Ivermectin, indicating successful treatment.
• No side effects were observed from the use of Ivermectin, bolstering its suitability as a treatment option.
• On the other hand, Mebendazol did not yield satisfactory results. The paper does not provide specific details, but it can be inferred that the reduction in the number of parasite eggs was less significant following the use of this drug.