Efficacy of ivermectin in injectable and oral paste formulations against eight-week-old Strongylus vulgaris larvae in ponies.

This research article explores how effective injectable and oral paste formulations of ivermectin are against eight-week-old Strongylus vulgaris larvae in young ponies. The study found both formulations to have an effectiveness of over 99%, resulted in weight gains and reduced arterial lesions in the treated ponies.

Research Methodology

• A meticulous test control method was employed to assess the effectiveness of injectable micelle and oral paste formulations of ivermectin – a popularly used deworming agent (scientifically known as 22,23-dihydroavermectin B1).
• This study was primarily focused on combating eight-week-old Strongylus vulgaris larvae. These parasites are a type of large strongyle or bloodworm typically found in equines, which can lead to severe damage to the circulatory system of host animals.
• The dosage level of ivermectin was uniformly dispensed at 0.2 mg/kg, ensuring a fair comparison between the effects of the injectable and oral paste formulations.
• Following the treatment, the pony foals were euthanized, and a necropsy (autopsy on animals) was carried out after five weeks to evaluate the actual impact of the drug on the parasites.

Findings of the Study

• The assessment was mainly based on the recovery of live versus dead S vulgaris from the mesenteric arteries. The mesenteric arteries are a group of arteries supplying the small intestine of animals. This is a common site of infestation for S vulgaris.
• The findings revealed that both the injectable micelle and oral paste formulations of ivermectin registered an efficacy rate higher than 99%. This indicates that the drug was extremely effective in killing the S vulgaris larvae.
• Furthermore, the research noted an increase in weight gains in treated ponies. This is a positive indicator as parasitic infections often lead to poor weight gain or even weight loss due to damage caused to the internal organs of the host animals. Successful deworming treatments can thus lead to better weight gain.
• Significantly, the study also highlighted a marked reduction in the severity of arterial lesions in treated ponies. This is an important factor as S vulgaris larvae are known to cause physical damage to the artery walls, often resulting in arterial blockage, thrombosis, or aneurysm. A reduction in arterial lesions, therefore, indicates a successful neutralization of the larvae.