What medications are used to treat mange in dogs? - briefly
To treat mange in dogs, veterinarians commonly prescribe ivermectin or selamectin. These medications effectively combat the mites that cause mange and promote healing of the skin.
What medications are used to treat mange in dogs? - in detail
Mange is a skin condition in dogs caused by mites, which can lead to hair loss, itching, and discomfort. Treatment typically involves the use of medications that target these parasites. The most commonly prescribed medications for treating mange in dogs include:
-
Ivermectin: This is a broad-spectrum antiparasitic drug that is highly effective against mites, including Sarcoptes scabiei and Demodex canis. Ivermectin works by paralyzing the mites, preventing them from reproducing, and eventually killing them. It is available in various forms such as injectable solutions, topical creams, and oral tablets.
-
Selamectin: Selamectin is another antiparasitic medication that is effective against both internal and external parasites, including mites. It is often administered as a spot-on treatment, applied to the skin between the shoulder blades of the dog. Selamectin works by inhibiting the neuromuscular junctions of the mites, causing paralysis and death.
-
Moxidectin: Similar to ivermectin and selamectin, moxidectin is a macrocyclic lactone that targets parasites in the nervous system. It is available as an injectable solution or as part of a combination product with imidacloprid for topical use. Moxidectin effectively controls mites by paralyzing and killing them.
-
Amitraz: Amitraz is a miticide that works by affecting the nervous system of mites, leading to their paralysis and death. It is commonly used as a dip or spray for treating sarcoptic mange. While effective, amitraz can cause some side effects in dogs, such as sedation and decreased appetite, so it should be used under veterinary supervision.
-
Lime-Sulfur Dips: These dips contain a combination of lime (calcium hydroxide) and sulfur, which work together to kill mites by disrupting their cell membranes. Lime-sulfur dips are often used for treating demodectic mange but can also be effective against sarcoptic mange. However, they may cause skin irritation in some dogs and require careful application.
-
Bravecto (Fluralaner): Bravecto is a newer antiparasitic medication that provides long-lasting protection against mites. It works by binding to the neuromuscular junctions of the mites, causing paralysis and death. Bravecto is available as a chewable tablet or a topical solution and offers a convenient, single-dose treatment option for mange in dogs.
When treating mange in dogs, it is crucial to follow the veterinarian's advice regarding the choice of medication, dosage, and frequency of administration. Proper hygiene practices, such as cleaning bedding and treating the environment, are also essential to prevent reinfection. Additionally, some dogs may require concurrent treatment with antibiotics if a secondary bacterial infection is present.
In summary, several medications are available for treating mange in dogs, each with its own mechanism of action and method of administration. Ivermectin, selamectin, moxidectin, amitraz, lime-sulfur dips, and Bravecto are among the most commonly used options. The choice of medication depends on the type of mange, the dog's condition, and the veterinarian's recommendation.