What Is Moxidectin?

Moxidectin is a type of avermectin de-wormer that is used to treat and prevent external and internal parasites. The types of parasites killed by moxidectin depend on the animal species being treated. Most moxidectin products are marketed by Fort Dodge Animal Health.

  1. Animals

    • Moxidectin is used in treating cats, dogs, cattle, sheep and horses for parasites, and in the prevention of parasites.

    What It Does

    • The parasites are killed by the moxidectin disrupting the neurotransmission within the parasites' bodies. This results in paralysis, and then death.

    Side Effects

    • Each animal species has shown different side effects to moxidectin, but side effects are usually tied to how the drug is given and how much of the drug is given. Owners of herding dog breeds should be wary of avermectin sensitivity.

    Formulations

    • Moxidectin can be given as a topical solution, an injection or as an oral paste. Generally the injections are given to cattle and sheep; the topical solutions are used on dogs and cats; and horses receive the oral pastes.

    Products

    • In the United States, moxidectin is found in Advantage Multi for Dogs, Advantage Multi for Cats, QUEST Gel for horses, and CYDECTIN for cattle and sheep.