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Brand

Revolution

Availability

Topical liquid in 15 mg tubes of 0.25mL volume with a 60 mg/mL strength: mauve packaging labeled for use in kittens

Topical liquid in 45 mg tubes of 0.75mL volume with a 60 mg/mL strength: blue packaging labeled for use in cats.

*Note: kitten and cat doses contain the same concentration just different amounts per tube. Either can be used. ²¹

Caution: packaging for Dogs is not the same as cats and kittens. Dog dosages contain a higher potency of 120 mg/mL.

Pharmacology

A macrocyclic lactone anthelmintic, this topical drug is a member of the avermectin class of insecticides, and is closely related to ivermectin.

Selamectin facilitates the release of GABA (gamma amino butyric acid) an inhibitory neurotransmitter. Because its specificity of action (like that of ivermectin) targets nematodes and arthropods to a much greater degree than the mammals it is being applied to, it permits for a wide margin of safety in its use.

It is readily absorbed through the skin and distributed via blood. Metabolized in the liver, it is mostly excreted in feces with a lesser amount excreted in urine.

Indications

Used to rid mites (*note: not effective against demodectic mange mites), fleas, and lice.

Drug Interactions or Contraindications

Avoid concomitant use with barbiturates, benzodiazepines (e.g. Valium), and valproic acid in order to avoid increased sedation.

*Note: supported recommendation of Vanessa Pisano DVM  ²¹
“Do not use Selamectin / Revolution on sick or malnutritioned rats, or on rats that are under 5 weeks old. For smaller sized rats greater than 5 weeks and under 4 months reduce dosage by half.”*

Adverse Reactions

Side effects or reactions are listed below, though noted to be uncommon.

CNS:  tremors

Skin:  irritation at site of application.

Dosage Recommendations

Selamectin Topical Application:  (mauve packet labeled for kittens, concentration listed above under Availability)
6 mg/kg once per month  ⁴

or

Selamectin Topical Application:  (mauve packet labeled for kittens, concentration listed above under Availability)
4 mg/kg to 8 mg/kg once per month or up to once every two weeks based on veterinary assessment.  ¹²

or

The following dosage recommendation and application information is contributed by Vanessa Pisano, DVM; VC North Springs, FL. ²¹

Selamectin Topical Application:  (blue packet labeled for cats, concentration listed above under Availability)
0.02 mL for rat weighing less than 1 pound. For a larger rat greater than 1 pound, 0.05 mL.
Apply once per month or up to once every two weeks based on veterinary assessment.

To Administer:
Push cap down on tube to puncture the seal and squeeze tube till a tiny bead is on the tip of tube, or draw up the amount needed for application in a needleless tuberculin syringe.
Part the rats fur at the base of the neck behind the head ( an area difficult for the rat to clean off ) and either touch the tube with the tiny bead of liquid to the skin, or apply with a needleless syringe.
Do not massage liquid into skin. Allow the area to dry before returning the rat to his cage.
If too much liquid is accidentally applied, wash the rat immediately and wait 2 weeks before reapplying. ²¹
*Note: product contains alcohol. Do not apply to broken areas of skin.

Considerations

• No reports on use in pregnant or lactating rats, wise to consider the following as seen in the monograph for ivermectin.
  Always consult a veterinarian if choosing to use in pregnant and lactating rats. Dose mother rat at recommended adult rat dose. Baby rats should not be given separate treatment since dosing would be achieved through nursing from mother rat.
• Topical application of Selamectin recommended less stressful to rats than the use of injectable medications.
• Store at semi-cool room temperature and protect from light.
• *Note for humans: rare instances of reactions such as eye irritation, hives, itching, and skin redness have been reported in humans having frequent contact with, and hypersensitivity to Revolution. Wash hands with soap and water immediately after skin contact with product. If eye contact flush eyes copiously with water.

References

• Freedom of Information Summary: Revolution™ (selamectin). (2000, June 13). Retrieved December 15, 2008, from http://www.fda.gov/OHRMS/DOCKETS/98fr/141152fs.pdf.

Posted on May 27, 2004, 22:01, Last updated on December 15, 2008, 19:45 | Anti-Infectives