Mitaban
Generic Name
Amitraz
Indications/Uses
Mitaban is a topical parasite control agent, primarily used in the treatment of demodectic mange (skin disease) and also for tick prevention in animals. Mitaban is a prescription medication and belongs to the group of mono-amine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI). Mitaban works by interfering and interrupting the nervous system of the susceptible parasite.
Precautions
As with many other drugs, be cautious not to use this drug on animals with susceptibility towards its ingredients. Pregnant and nursing dogs should also be kept away from this medication. Animals less than four months of age should not be administered with mitaban. It has serious effects on the blood sugar levels in animals, and therefore avoid administering it on diabetic animals. Toy breed dogs should be administered only with very small doses. Mitaban has been found unsuitable for treating cats.Drugs like corticosteroids and azethioprine can interact with mitaban to give adverse results. So, avoid using it if the pet is being treated with any of these. Prior to administering mitaban, make sure that long and medium haired dogs are clipped. Dogs taking MAOI medications like Parnate or Selegiline should not be treated with mitaban.
Side Effects
A very common side effect of mitaban is the sedation and sleepiness it induces, which lasts for almost 72 hours after administration of the medication. Mitaban when ingested into the tick collars can result in poisoning. Some of the other side effects that may occur are hyper-excitability, vomiting, diarrhea, increased appetite, itching, convulsions, personality change, increased urination, edema, skin rash or other skin irritation.
Dosage Information
Dosage should be strictly as per veterinary instructions. Administration should be done by mixing 10.6 ml of mitaban into two gallons of water and application on to the hair and skin. After application do not rinse the hair and skin, just let it air dry. The dosage pattern usually followed is three to six treatments every 14 days. It may be changed by a veterinarian depending on the response to the medication and the development of adverse reactions. Do not increase the dosage, as over dosage can lead to severe conditions like in-coordination, depression, slow heart beat rate, higher blood sugar levels, decreased body temperature or even death.
Brand Names
Mitaban (Upjohn), Preventic (Allerderm/Virbac), Taktic (Hoechst/Roussel) and various generic brands