Amitraz

(amitraz)

Brand

Mitaban

Availability

As Amitraz 19.9% topical solution for dilution in 10.6 mL bottles.

Pharmacology

Amitraz is a diamide topical antiparasitic agent belonging to the class of monoamine oxidase inhibitors. It appears to affect the central nervous system of those organisms that are susceptible. It also appears to have alpha-2 adrenergic ability.

This drug can cause significant increase in plasma glucose levels by inhibiting insulin release via alpha-2 adrenergic activity.

The safety of this drug has not been established in young animals or pregnant animals.

Indications

Used in treatment for demodectic mange, notoedres, and sarcoptid mites.

Drug Interactions or Contraindications

Do not mix with other antiparasiticides.
Do not use corticosteroids and other immunosuppressants in animals with demodicosis due to immunosuppressive effects.
Ivermectin recommended safer to use in pet rats.

Adverse Reactions

CNS: transient sedation

GI: may be toxic if swallowed

Dosage Recommendations

An established dose for use in rats is to dilute 10.6 mL or 1 bottle amitraz in 10 gal. water, which is 5X the recommended amount for dogs, and apply with a cotton bud (Q-tip or swab) to / or wash animal at 2-week intervals for 3 to 6 treatments. This method of applying is safer for rodents since surface to body ratio is greater than dogs. Following the treatment keep the rat warm and free from drafts until dry. ⁽¹⁾

or

1.4 mL/L topical, repeat q14 days. ²⁷^, ³⁵^, ⁴¹^, ⁴⁴.
Can use same application as mentioned above: Apply with a cotton bud (Q-tip or swab) to, or wash, animal at 2-week intervals for 3 to 6 treatments. This method of applying is safer for rodents since surface to body ratio is greater than dogs. Following the treatment keep the rat warm and free from drafts until dry. ¹^, ²⁷

Considerations

If treating around eyes, use ophthalmic protectant with petrolatum before treating.
Refrain from use in pyoderma until lesions healed.
Amitraz is flammable until diluted in water. Wear gloves while treating animal, protect any exposed skin on hands and arms and wash thoroughly after treatment. Avoid any vapors and flush unused portion down drain, or as county policy dictates, and rinse any container used to mix with water and then dispose.
Store unused in the original bottle at room temperature. Protect from light.

Reference

Tynes, V. (1998). Drug therapy in pet rodents. Vet Med, 93(11), 988-991. Abstract retrieved August 31, 2013, from http://www.vspn.org/vspnsearch/aow/drugtherapyinpetrodents.htm