A product for the mass treatment of respiratory disease chickens has been launched, which offers a reduced withdrawal period.
Metaxol, which is part of Dechra Veterinary Products’ SoluStab range, is replacing Methoxasol and the company says that it has been welcomed by producers who want to target entire flocks but enjoy the benefits of a shorter withdrawal period.
The product contains 20mg trimethoprim and 100mg sulfamethoxazole per millilitre and can be added directly to drinking water or used in a concentrated stock.
“Sulfamethoxazole is a potent sulfonamide and, when combined with trimethoprim, it has a synergistic and bactericidal effect,” explained Dechra’s brand manager Emma Jennings. “Both active ingredients are rapidly absorbed and distributed widely in tissues making it a highly effective treatment.
“The shorter withdrawal time for broilers will make it an attractive treatment for producers wanting to target entire flocks.”
In broilers, it can be used for treatment and metaphylaxis of: Colibacillosis, caused by Escherichia coli susceptible to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole; or Coryza, caused by Avibacterium paraga.
The recommended dosage is 0.38 ml of product per kilogramme of body weight per day for three days for chickens. Metaxol is not suitable for laying hens.