Eqvalan

Ivermectin

Method of action: Anthelmintic, Anti-Inflammatory, Antiparasitic, For Animal Use Only

Treatment option: Infection

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Eqvalan

What Type of Medicine is Eqvalan and Who Is It For?

Eqvalan is a specialized, single-ingredient veterinary medicine designated as an anthelmintic agent, formulated specifically for use in equids (horses). Its fundamental purpose is the control and elimination of parasitic organisms within the host. The product’s high-level classification is an endectocide, meaning it is effective against a broad spectrum of both internal and external parasites, a characteristic inherent to its pharmacological class.

As a veterinary-specific anthelmintic, Eqvalan contains the active ingredient ivermectin, which is recognized for its potency against susceptible parasites. This focused application in equine medicine highlights its primary differentiation: providing targeted, comprehensive parasite control that is structurally and regulatory distinct from medications used for other species.

What is the Active Ingredient in Eqvalan and Its Form?

The sole active ingredient in Eqvalan is ivermectin (INN), a compound that belongs to the macrocyclic lactone chemical family. The product is manufactured as an oral paste, which is a semi-solid preparation intended for administration by mouth.

Ivermectin is classified as a semi-synthetic derivative, originating from the avermectins, which are natural fermentation products. Regulatory standards classify ivermectin as a drug approved for veterinary use, establishing its profile and application within this context.

What is Eqvalan's General Purpose?

The general purpose of Eqvalan is to achieve comprehensive parasite control by eliminating susceptible organisms within the host's body. Ivermectin functions by disrupting the parasite's nerve cell signaling, which leads to the parasite’s paralysis and subsequent elimination from the system. This action is critical to the product’s role in breaking the parasitic life cycle, offering use in seasonal equine parasite management programs to protect the horse from the health issues associated with persistent infestation.

What side effects are possible with Eqvalan ?

Possible side effects and safety information

The safety profile for Eqvalan (Ivermectin) is based on official veterinary regulatory documents, which categorize potential adverse effects by physiological system and the context of use in equids.

Adverse Reactions Scope

The most commonly documented adverse reactions are associated with the death of parasites (specifically, Onchocerca microfilariae) in heavily infected horses. These reactions are typically dermatological, manifesting as oedema (swelling) and pruritus (itching) [VMD SPC]. These effects are generally transitory in nature and are documented to resolve within a few days.

Gastrointestinal and oral reactions have also been noted. Rare reports include inflammation of the mouth, lip, and tongue, sometimes presenting as stomatitis or hypersalivation. These oral effects are typically short-lived, appearing within one hour of administration and abating within one to two days [VMD SPC]. Signs of mild, transient colic have been observed in cases of heavy tapeworm infestations with related Ivermectin combination products.

Safety Restrictions and Contraindications

The regulatory label establishes specific population-based limitations. The medicine is contraindicated for use in mares producing milk intended for human consumption [HPRA SPC]. Safety studies were not specifically conducted for related Ivermectin products in foals younger than two months or breeding stallions, and use in these groups is generally not recommended.

Serious Safety Events

Serious neurological signs, including mydriasis, ataxia, tremors, stupor, and coma, are documented in regulatory texts exclusively as consequences of massive overdose (administration at substantially excessive doses) [UK VMD SPC]. The product carries a significant environmental safety constraint due to its extreme toxicity to fish and aquatic life, requiring mandatory disposal control to prevent water contamination.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

Official regulatory information describes overdose with Ivermectin, the active substance in Eqvalan, as a potentially severe event, particularly when concentrated veterinary formulations are misused. The adverse effects reported include primary disturbances to the central nervous system (CNS) and the cardiovascular system.

Overdose manifestations may present with gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. More severe toxicity is indicated by neurological manifestations such as dizziness, confusion, altered mental status, ataxia (loss of coordination), and the potential for seizures and coma.

Systemic effects documented in regulatory reports include hypotension (low blood pressure) and tachycardia (fast heart rate). The explicit regulatory statement notes that accidental ingestion of highly concentrated veterinary formulations carries a toxicity risk for humans and explicitly warns to “Keep this and all drugs out of the reach of children.”

The required emergency actions are strictly defined: Immediate medical attention must be sought if any symptoms occur, or if a significant exposure is suspected. Regulators advise that individuals must immediately contact emergency services (911) or call the Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222). Urgent hospital treatment may be required for severe manifestations. No specific antidote is officially documented; management is defined as symptomatic and supportive treatment.

Therapeutic Uses of Eqvalan

What Eqvalan Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Managing Internal Parasite Burdens and Addressing Organ Damage

Eqvalan is commonly used to help with the management of a comprehensive range of internal parasites, including both adult and highly destructive larval stages of Large and Small Strongyles, Ascarids, and Stomach Bots. The medication is applied within therapeutic areas involving heightened responses. This treatment is used to help manage the risk of developing severe, disruptive pathologies, such as the arterial damage and colic linked to migrating strongyle larvae, supporting long-term functional stability.

Supporting Health Stability After Chronic Parasitism

The medication is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed to address the systemic signs of chronic internal worm infestation. These often cluster into symptoms related to systemic imbalance, such as unthriftiness, weight loss, and a dull, poor-quality coat. The action against the parasitic burden helps manage symptoms related to systemic imbalance, which contributes to easing the overall symptom load associated with chronic nutrient loss, and may assist with maintaining functional stability.

Easing Parasite-Related Skin Discomfort

Eqvalan is relevant when symptoms become more noticeable due to parasites causing external discomfort, targeting specific issues related to Neck Threadworms and certain susceptible external parasites, such as lice and mites. This application is relevant for easing the symptoms related to physical discomfort and the associated skin irritation, which contributes to easing the overall symptom burden.

Quick Fact: Relief for Chronic Parasitism Symptoms

The medicine contributes to easing the overall symptom load associated with chronic worm infestation, which may assist with maintaining functional stability and supports general well-being during symptomatic phases.

Regulatory References

US FDA Freedom of Information Summary

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Eqvalan?

The population eligibility for Eqvalan (Ivermectin 1.87% oral paste) is defined strictly by its designation as a veterinary medicine for equids.

Populations That Must Not Use Eqvalan (Contraindications)

Official regulatory labeling establishes absolute non-eligibility for several populations:

Humans: The product is not for use in humans under any circumstances.
Other Animal Species: It is strictly contraindicated for use in virtually all non-target species, including dogs, cats (especially certain breeds like Collies), turtles, and tortoises, due to the high risk of severe toxicity.
Food-Producing Animals: Use is prohibited in any horse or donkey intended for human consumption (meat or milk).
Hypersensitivity: Contraindicated in cases of known hypersensitivity to Ivermectin.

Approved and Restricted Populations

Eqvalan is permitted for use in horses and donkeys of all ages, including foals starting at six to eight weeks of age. The product is also generally considered eligible for use in pregnant mares, lactating mares (not producing human food), and breeding stallions. A regulatory restriction advises that horses carrying a heavy parasitic burden of Onchocerca microfilariae may be treated, but may require symptomatic care due to post-treatment reactions.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

This section outlines the officially documented interaction profile of Eqvalan (Ivermectin Oral Paste), strictly based on government regulatory documentation for veterinary use. The primary focus is on formal restrictions and findings regarding co-administration with other medicines and substances.

Documented Interaction Status

Official regulatory summaries report a consistent status regarding its use alongside other treatments for equids. The product has been used concurrently with various other equine health care products, and no interactions have been identified that necessitate special warnings or dosage adjustments in the regulatory label. This statement of non-interaction means no subsequent restrictions are imposed on exposure modification (e.g., changes in plasma concentration) or pharmacodynamic interactions with commonly co-administered veterinary medicines.

Administration and Mixing Restrictions

While specific drug-to-drug interactions are not documented, the product's regulatory profile does include procedural constraints. Official documentation requires adherence to rules regarding incompatibilities. In the absence of specific compatibility data, the product should not be mixed with other medicinal products prior to administration. This constraint is a procedural requirement defined by regulatory agencies and is not categorized as a pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic interaction.

Mechanism of Action

Selective Agonism of Parasite Glutamate-Gated Chloride Channels ( GluCls)

The active component, Ivermectin, exerts its effect by functioning as a highly specific agonist at the Glutamate-gated Chloride Channels ( GluCls) found exclusively on the nerve and muscle cells of susceptible invertebrates. This molecular interaction is the initiating event, driving a massive, sustained influx of Chloride ions ( Cl^-) into the cell. This domain of action establishes the differential physiological consequence against the target organism.

Irreversible Neuro-Muscular Hyperpolarization

The resulting surge of Cl^- ions causes the membranes of the parasite's nerve and muscle cells to become severely hyperpolarized, which electrically prevents them from generating an action potential. This complete suppression of electrical activity across the central and peripheral motor systems leads directly to flaccid paralysis of the organism. This paralyzing consequence results in the suppression of essential motor and feeding activity, shaping the resulting physiological profile.

️ Mechanistic Constraints and Selectivity Profile

The drug's mechanism is physiologically constrained by the host's natural P-glycoprotein ( P-gp) efflux pump, which actively restricts Ivermectin's access to the host's central nervous system. This differential action contributes to the drug's selectivity profile. However, the mechanism's effectiveness can also be limited by the parasite's development of resistance, which involves genetic changes to the GluCl target or enhanced metabolic detoxification processes.

Dosage and Administration Information

Administration Guidelines for Eqvalan

Eqvalan (ivermectin paste) is administered orally to horses and donkeys. The correct use of the product is structured by a precise, weight-based dosing system and specific administration technique.

Administration Scope

Instruction Category	Requirement
Route of Administration	Oral (as a paste).
Dosing Schedule	A single dose of 0.2 mg ivermectin per kilogram of body weight.
Preparation	Body weight must be accurately determined to set the syringe's knurled ring to the prescribed weight marking.
Timing in Relation to Feed	The animal's mouth must contain no feed immediately prior to dosing.
Age Group	Applicable to horses and donkeys of all ages, including pregnant mares and breeding stallions. Foals may be treated initially at 6 to 8 weeks of age.

Step Sequence for Oral Administration

A specific sequence is utilized to ensure the full dose is received:

Determine Body Weight: The horse's body weight must be accurately measured prior to treatment.
Adjust Syringe: Unlock the knurled ring on the syringe plunger and slide it until the side nearest the barrel aligns with the calculated weight marking, then lock the ring in place.
Confirm Readiness: Ensure the horse's mouth is free of feed and remove the plastic cap from the syringe nozzle.
Deposit Paste: Insert the syringe tip into the horse's mouth at the interdental space and advance the plunger to deposit the entire dose at the base of the tongue.
Ensure Swallowing: Immediately raise the horse's head for a few seconds after administration to confirm the medication is swallowed.

Connection to the Overall Use Protocol

These instructions establish a strictly proportional, weight-based dosing protocol that requires accurate measurement to calculate the 0.2 mg/kg dose. The procedural steps—from adjusting the calibrated syringe to depositing the paste at the base of the tongue with no feed present—are designed to ensure the animal receives the correct, full volume of medication.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies

Overview of Compound X

The compound is being investigated for its potential to affect the body’s inflammatory response. The compound is being studied for its anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have investigated whether the compound influences joint mobility and pain levels in models of chronic inflammatory conditions. This compound is one of several being studied in the context of chronic inflammatory conditions.

Studies on Efficacy and Outcome Measures

1. Clinical Study on Chronic Pain

A phase II trial involving 150 participants with a specific inflammatory condition assessed the impact of Compound X versus placebo over a 12-week period.

Swelling and Inflammation: Study data indicated a lower average measure of swelling in the Compound X group compared to the placebo group over the study period.
Flare-ups: Research examined whether the compound influences the severity and duration of flare-ups, with investigators collecting data via patient diaries.
Quality of Life (QoL): Secondary outcomes included QoL measures, with studies evaluating participant-reported changes in daily function and overall well-being.

2. Pharmacokinetic and Safety Profile

The pharmacokinetic profile of the compound has been studied to understand its absorption and distribution in the body.

Bioavailability: Research found that the new formulation's bioavailability was higher than that of earlier compound structures examined in preclinical trials.
Reported Side Effects: Side effects reported typically did not persist, including mild gastrointestinal upset and temporary fatigue. Long-term data regarding the full safety profile are not yet available, as further analysis is ongoing.

3. Combination Therapy Research

Studies have evaluated whether combined therapy affects patient outcomes when Compound X is administered alongside existing standard-of-care treatments for a specific condition.

Research has assessed the potential for drug interactions between Compound X and established therapies, focusing on the activity of both agents when administered together.
Trial findings suggested that patients on the combined regimen exhibited similar rates of adverse events compared to those receiving standard care alone.

Key Studies & References

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Eqvalan (FAQ)

Q: How quickly do people typically start to notice the effect of Eqvalan?

The drug's mechanism is described in official documents as causing rapid paralysis of the target organisms' nerve cells. While the internal elimination process takes time, any related post-treatment adverse reactions in the animal, such as swelling or itching associated with parasite death, are typically documented to resolve within a few days.

Q: Do the side effects of Eqvalan usually go away after a while?

According to the official product information, adverse reactions such as oedema (swelling) or pruritus (itching) that are associated with parasite death are documented as being 'transitory in nature.' This means they are documented as resolving spontaneously within a few days.

Q: Does Eqvalan interact with birth control pills?

Eqvalan is a veterinary medicine specifically for use in equids (horses and donkeys) and is not for use in humans. The official regulatory labeling contains no information or guidance regarding human drug interactions, including those with birth control pills.

Q: Can vitamins or herbal supplements interfere with Eqvalan?

Official product information indicates that the drug has been used alongside various other equine health care products. No specific interactions that require special warnings or dosage adjustments have been identified in the regulatory documents when used in the target animals.

Q: What research is available about using Eqvalan during pregnancy?

Studies have examined the effects of the active ingredient and found no evidence of teratogenic (causing birth defects) or embryotoxic effects in laboratory animals. Due to this evidence, the product is generally considered eligible for use in pregnant mares according to the regulatory label.

Q: Can Eqvalan be divided or crushed?

The official guidelines outline a strict procedure using a calibrated syringe to ensure the full, weight-based dose of the paste is administered. This process is designed to help ensure the animal receives the correct volume of medication, and altering the paste form is contrary to the official administration technique.

Q: Can people who have kidney issues use Eqvalan?

Eqvalan is a veterinary medicine strictly designated for use in equids and is not for use in humans. Consequently, the official product labeling does not provide information or guidance related to human health conditions, such as the use of the product by people with kidney issues.

Q: Is Eqvalan more effective if taken with food?

Official administration instructions specify that the animal's mouth must contain no feed immediately prior to dosing. This procedural requirement is in place to ensure that the medication is fully received and swallowed according to regulatory standards.

Q: Are there any known issues with drinking alcohol while taking Eqvalan?

Eqvalan is a veterinary medicine specifically for use in equids and is not for use in humans. The official product labeling, therefore, does not address human-specific issues or interactions, such as those related to the consumption of alcohol.

Q: Is Eqvalan the same kind of medicine as other drugs with similar-sounding names?

Eqvalan is classified in regulatory documents as an Anthelmintic agent that belongs to the macrocyclic lactone chemical class. This pharmacological classification defines the structure and core function of the active ingredient, grouping it with other medicines of that type.

Q: Can Eqvalan affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?

Eqvalan is a veterinary medicine strictly for use in equids and is not for use in humans. Official regulatory labeling provides no information or guidance regarding the product's effect on human activities, such as driving or operating machinery.

Q: What is the duration of treatment generally described for Eqvalan?

According to the official regulatory documents, the product is designed for a single administration at the recommended dosage level to control parasitic infestations. It is not generally described as a treatment that requires repeated, daily, or long-term dosing.

Q: Is Eqvalan known to be habit-forming?

The active ingredient, Ivermectin, is listed with a U.S. DEA Schedule of None in the official drug classification. This means the ingredient is not classified as a controlled substance.

Q: Is Eqvalan classified as a controlled substance?

The active ingredient, Ivermectin, is listed with a U.S. DEA Schedule of None in the official drug classification. This indicates that it is not classified as a controlled substance under federal regulation.

Q: Is Eqvalan effective for treating symptoms that suddenly appear?

The official indication for the product is the treatment of parasitic infestations. The regulatory text defines its purpose based on the presence of susceptible organisms, rather than the speed at which symptoms may have appeared.

Q: Why do some people experience stomach upset with Eqvalan?

The official safety profile notes that rare reports have included inflammation of the mouth, lip, and tongue (sometimes called stomatitis) or mild, transient colic. These are the documented gastrointestinal-related reactions associated with the product's use in equids.

Q: Does taking Eqvalan affect how I sleep?

Serious neurological signs, including stupor and coma, are documented in regulatory texts exclusively as consequences of a massive overdose. These effects represent a severe disturbance of consciousness, but they are not listed as typical side effects when the product is used as directed.

Q: Why does the packaging for Eqvalan include a certain warning?

Official documentation mandates specific warnings, notably regarding the product’s extreme toxicity to fish and aquatic life. These warnings require controls for disposal to prevent the product and used containers from contaminating ground or surface water.

Q: Is it necessary to take Eqvalan at the exact same time every day?

Eqvalan is designed for single administration at the recommended dosage level to treat parasitic infestations. It is not a daily course of therapy, so the need to take it at the exact same time every day does not apply to this product.

Q: How long does Eqvalan stay in a person's system?

Eqvalan is a veterinary medicine strictly for use in equids and is not for use in humans. The official regulatory labeling does not contain data or information regarding human pharmacokinetics, such as how long the drug stays in a person’s system.

Q: Can Eqvalan be taken with acid reflux medication?

Official product information indicates that the drug has been used alongside various other equine health care products. No specific interactions that require special warnings or dosage adjustments have been identified in the regulatory documents when used in the target animals.

Q: What should a person do if they suspect an interaction between Eqvalan and another medicine?

In the case of accidental human ingestion or eye irritation after contact with the product, regulatory text specifies that professional medical assistance should be sought immediately. It is also advised to show the package insert or label to the attending physician.

How should Eqvalan be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Eqvalan: Official Regulatory Requirements

Eqvalan (ivermectin paste) must be stored at controlled room temperature, specifically between 20 C and 25 C (68 F to 77 F), with protection from light. The product should be kept in its original container and must be stored out of the sight and reach of children.

Stability and Handling

Condition	Regulatory Requirement
Temperature Limit	Do not store long-term above 30 C.
In-Use Stability	Indicated for immediate use once opened; do not store opened container.

Disposal

Disposal instructions require that any unused product or waste materials be managed in accordance with local requirements, such as disposal in an approved landfill or by incineration. It is mandated to not contaminate ground or surface water, including ponds or waterways, with the product or the used container.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.