Ivomec approved for EUA as a preventative for NWS

The United States Food and Drug Administration has issued an emergency use authorization for Ivomec, (ivermectin) 1% Injection, an over-the-counter preventative for New World screwworm developed by Boehringer Ingelheim. The agency determined there is currently no adequate, approved and available alternative to the product, allowing its temporary use under emergency conditions. 

The U.S. continues to monitor the northward movement of NWS, a parasitic pest that poses a serious threat to livestock. According to officials, the pest has been detected within 70 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border, raising concerns for domestic cattle herds. 

Under the EUA, the FDA states Ivomec 1% Injection may be used as a preventative when administered within 24 hours of birth, at the time of castration and at the appearance of a wound. However, the product is not approved for use in female dairy cattle producing milk for human consumption or in calves intended for veal production. 

The FDA noted that the authorization for Ivomec 1% Injection will remain in effect only for the duration of the emergency declaration under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. The EUA may be revoked earlier if conditions change or if alternative treatments become available.  

Lacey Vilhauer can be reached at 620-227-1871 or [email protected].