Acatak

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Acatak

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

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 Acatak

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Fluazuron (INN)
Form Pour-on solution (liquid)
Pharmacological class Acaricide, Arthropod Growth Regulator (AGR)
Common use Strategic control of cattle tick
Origin Synthetic, Benzoyl Phenylurea derivative

Acatak: Definition and Pharmacological Classification

Acatak is a specialized veterinary medicine presented as a pour-on solution, formulated exclusively for the control of external parasites, primarily the cattle tick (Rhipicephalus microplus). Pharmacologically, it is defined as an acaricide and ectoparasiticide, falling under the functional group of Arthropod Growth Regulators (AGRs). This BPU derivative is characterized by a unique developmental inhibitory mechanism, where the medicine’s strategy is focused on preventing parasite growth and development rather than immediate elimination.

Composition: Fluazuron and Differentiation

The essential chemical entity responsible for Acatak's action is the active ingredient, Fluazuron, a synthetic compound structurally classified as an N-acylurea and a benzoyl phenylurea (BPU) derivative. Acatak is typically marketed as a single active ingredient product, distinguishing it from combination treatments. The formulation is supplied as an oil-based solution for dermal administration. The active ingredient is designed for systemic absorption via the pour-on route, allowing it to circulate and target the parasite internally.

General Purpose: Strategic Tick Development Inhibition

The general purpose of Acatak is to achieve sustained population control by acting as a powerful tick development inhibitor that effectively breaks the tick life cycle. This unique action is used in a typical use scenario involving strategic rotation, where Acatak is applied to maintain long-term suppression of tick populations throughout critical seasons. This method provides long-term protection for cattle, thereby establishing Acatak as a critical component in mitigating and managing heavy tick burdens.

Regulatory References

  1. WHO JECFA database summary for Fluazuron

What side effects are possible with Acatak?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile for Acatak (Fluazuron) is defined by officially documented reactions in treated cattle, specific constraints for the food chain, and mandatory safety directions for human handlers, as established by governmental veterinary regulatory bodies.

Adverse Reaction Classification

Category Description based on Regulatory Data
Application Site Effects Reactions at the pour-on site, such as temporary hair matting and slight scurfiness, are generally expected and transient.
Systemic Effects in Cattle Systemic adverse signs, including lethargy or salivation, are officially classified as Very Rare (occurring in less than 1 in 10,000 treated animals).
Handler Hazard The concentrated pour-on solution is classified as an irritant that can cause skin and eye damage upon accidental contact, requiring specific protective measures.

Regulatory Safety Constraints

The most significant safety constraints are related to its use in food production, driven by the ingredient's prolonged systemic presence and slow elimination:

  • Mandatory Withholding Period (WHP): An extended, statutory Meat Withholding Period is required, meaning cattle cannot be slaughtered for human consumption for a specified time after the last treatment, to ensure drug residue levels are safe.
  • Contraindications: The product is contraindicated for use in cattle that are producing, or may produce, milk for human consumption, as well as for pregnant cows approaching calving.
  • Environmental Safety: The official labeling includes constraints classifying the product as very toxic to aquatic invertebrates, restricting its use near waterways.

This framework of officially documented adverse events and critical safety constraints defines the medicine's risk profile, focusing primarily on public health risk management associated with its long-acting mechanism.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

The official regulatory profile for accidental Acatak (Fluazuron) exposure is defined by documented acute manifestations and the potential for severe, delayed toxicity. Immediate signs may include skin and serious eye irritation, respiratory irritation, and possible drowsiness or dizziness.

More severe outcomes are classified by regulatory agencies as potential Specific Target Organ Toxicity (STOT). Risks include damage to the Central Nervous System and Kidneys from high-level or repeated exposure, noting the possibility of delayed effects such as brain oedema.

Mandatory Emergency Actions:

Urgent medical assistance is required if exposure is suspected or if any symptoms are present. The official guidance mandates to seek medical advice immediately and to contact a Poison Center or physician. The instruction is explicit: IF exposed or concerned, get medical attention.

Required Management and Antidote Status:

Regulatory protocols confirm that no specific antidote exists. Treatment is strictly symptomatic and supportive. Following ingestion, it is explicitly stated that DO NOT induce vomiting. Furthermore, official documentation notes a specific population consideration: the substance is classified as potentially capable of causing damage to the unborn child.

Therapeutic Uses of Acatak

What Acatak treats: main uses and benefits

Acatak is an animal health product primarily used for the strategic control of cattle ticks (Rhipicephalus microplus) on beef cattle. The therapeutic function of the original Acatak Pour-On is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed. The active ingredient, fluazuron, is used for managing the parasite load.

The product is commonly used to help with managing the symptoms related to inflammatory or irritative states caused by heavy infestations. This contributes to easing the overall symptom load and supports general well-being during symptomatic phases for the animals.

Indications for use include strategic control of cattle ticks, and with the dual-active formulation (Acatak Duostar), the product is also relevant for easing the burden of other internal and external parasites, such as gastrointestinal roundworms, lungworms, and lice.

By controlling ticks, it assists with maintaining functional stability and may assist with managing symptoms linked to severe tick infestation and potential tick-borne diseases. A key clinical context is its use in scenarios where additional management of discomfort is required during phases of increased distress. This strategic use is generally considered relevant for controlling conditions associated with acute or disruptive episodes of parasitism.

Quick Fact: Relief for Symptoms related to physical discomfort

Regulatory References

  1. Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) Public Release Summary

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Acatak Pour-On (Fluazuron) eligibility is determined by the animal's species, production status, and life-cycle stage, as defined by regulatory authorities.


Eligible and Prohibited Populations

Population Status Regulatory Rule
Approved Use Beef cattle for the strategic control of cattle ticks.
Absolute Contraindication Lactating Dairy Cattle (cattle producing, or that may in the future produce, milk for human consumption).
Prohibited Use (Timing) Pregnant cows within six weeks of calving to avoid handling stress.

Eligibility Restrictions

Direct treatment is not recommended for calves weighing under 100 kg bodyweight. While suckling calves generally receive protection from treated mothers and do not require direct treatment, all animals designated for meat consumption, including calves suckling treated cows, must comply with mandatory Withholding Periods (WHP) before slaughter. Use on Show Cattle is not recommended due to potential visible scurfiness. This profile strictly governs who can receive the medicine based on food safety and animal welfare standards.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Official regulatory documentation for Acatak (Fluazuron) outlines specific requirements for co-administration and restrictions on product use, primarily dictated by protocols for veterinary medicines. The official labeling does not include formal warnings regarding pharmacokinetic (PK) interactions, such as those involving CYP enzymes or drug transporters, with separately administered medicinal products.

Documented Co-Administration and Timing Rules

The regulatory profile officially authorizes the co-administration of Fluazuron with other antiparasitic agents. Regulatory documentation confirms the co-formulation of Fluazuron with Ivermectin in the dual-active product, Acatak Duostar, establishing an approved combination for application.

A mandatory procedural rule exists concerning the timing of application when the product is used alongside other topical treatments. Official instructions state that Acatak must be applied last during any concurrent treatment procedure.

Interaction-Related Restrictions

Regulatory restrictions are enforced based on the animal's contribution to the food chain. A mandatory administration restriction strictly prohibits the use of this product on cattle that are currently producing, or may in the future produce, milk for human consumption. Furthermore, official instructions advise against administration to pregnant cows within six weeks of calving to minimize handling stress in that specific population.

Mechanism of Action

Acatak operates as a selective inhibitor within the osteoclast differentiation pathway. Acatak is a high-affinity human monoclonal antibody that targets the Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor kappaB Ligand (RANKL). It binds to RANKL, preventing the ligand from interacting with its receptor, RANK (Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor kappaB), which is expressed on the surface of pre-osteoclasts and mature osteoclasts.

This blockade disrupts the crucial intracellular signaling cascade that normally drives osteoclast formation, function, and survival. The interruption of the RANKL/RANK signaling reduces the proliferation and differentiation of osteoclast precursors into active bone-resorbing cells. By suppressing the activity and number of osteoclasts, Acatak physiologically modulates the overall process of bone remodeling. This mechanistic action leads to a sustained decrease in bone resorption at the system level.

Dosage and Administration Information

Acatak is administered through the topical (pour-on) route for the strategic control of cattle ticks. The dose is calculated based on the animal's bodyweight. The standard regimen involves the application of 3 mL per 50 kg bodyweight, corresponding to a 1.5 mg dose of the active ingredient Fluazuron per kg. This calculation is essential, and the weight of the cattle is determined by a weighband or scales. For accurate dosing within a group, the volume is based on the heaviest animal in the mob to ensure that no animal is underdosed.

The medicine is used according to an intermittent, seasonal schedule rather than a continuous daily regimen. The use protocol is limited to a maximum of three treatments per annual tick season, with a minimum interval of six weeks between applications. The application itself involves dispensing the solution using an approved applicator device. The product is applied in two distinct bands on the skin along the spine, running from the rump to the shoulders. This strategic timing and application method allow the product to deliver its intended long-term population control effect, which may take two to three weeks to fully manifest after treatment. Calves that are still suckling treated cows typically receive adequate protection maternally and do not require individual treatment.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of Studies for Acatak

Evidence for Strategic Tick Control

Research has explored the role of Acatak in the long-term strategic control of cattle tick (Rhipicephalus microplus). Researchers used controlled efficacy trials and other comparative research designs—conducted both in specific pen settings and under real-world field conditions. The main outcomes monitored focused on the parasite itself: counting the number of engorged ticks on the treated animals and assessing the duration of the observed protective interval. Studies report patterns where the measured tick burden on treated animals was observed to be lower compared to the burden measured on untreated control groups. The overall evidence base contributes to understanding the relationship between treatment and the measured changes in parasite load.

Studies on the Tick Life Cycle Disruption

A significant body of research was evaluated to understand the compound's observed influence on tick development. These were laboratory bioassays and controlled studies that specifically monitored the development of the tick. Research highlighted changes measured in ticks, where structural changes in the outer protective layer were observed. For example, specific findings show patterns related to reduced viability and changes in hatching rates among eggs laid by exposed female ticks. This evidence contributes to understanding the compound’s relationship to tick development.

What is Still Uncertain About Acatak Research

A review of the evidence highlights several areas where certainty remains low. One key limitation is that direct comparative evidence is lacking for certain health and welfare outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance. Dedicated studies using validated measures of animal comfort or long-term production metrics are less prevalent in the regulatory research base. Finally, while the compound was observed to be related to lower tick populations, findings were mixed concerning the impact of resistance emergence. Scientific papers describe local resistance patterns that can affect observed performance in certain regions.

Key Studies & References

  1. Fluazuron (WHO Food Additives Series 39) - Evaluation of residues in food animals, toxicology, and absorption/distribution studies
  2. Resistance of the cattle tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus to fluazuron in Argentina (Field and In Vitro Trials)
  3. Status of Rhipicephalus microplus resistance to ivermectin, fipronil and fluazuron in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil (Efficacy and Resistance Study)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Acatak (FAQ)


Q: Is Acatak the same type of medicine as [similar common drug name]?

A: Acatak is the brand name for the active ingredient Fluazuron. Official product information classifies it as an Arthropod Growth Regulator (AGR), a type of medicine that interferes with parasite development. The medicine is formulated as a single-active ingredient pour-on solution for veterinary use.

Q: Why do people sometimes say they feel strange when starting Acatak?

A: Official regulatory documents classify the concentrated solution as an irritant that poses a risk to human handlers. It is described as potentially causing skin and eye damage upon accidental contact. This handler hazard is the reason specific protective measures are required when applying the product.

Q: Is Acatak used for anything other than its main approved condition?

A: The regulatory documentation states that the product is officially indicated only for the strategic control of cattle tick (Rhipicephalus microplus). Use protocols, including dosing and administration, are defined by official documents solely for this approved purpose.

Q: How does Acatak compare generally to older treatments for the same condition?

A: Studies reviewed by regulatory bodies include comparative research designs focused on assessing the parasite burden on treated animals versus untreated control groups. Evidence themes contribute to understanding the relationship between treatment and changes in parasite load. Official regulatory summaries generally do not provide direct comparison claims against all older treatment alternatives.

Q: What are the most commonly reported side effects of Acatak online?

A: According to the official adverse reaction classification for cattle, the most commonly expected effects are application site reactions. These transient reactions include issues such as temporary hair matting and slight scurfiness at the pour-on location.

Q: What official warnings or black box warnings are associated with Acatak?

A: Official documents detail several mandatory and critical safety constraints for the product. These constraints include an extended Meat Withholding Period (WHP) for food safety and contraindications for lactating dairy cattle and pregnant cows near calving.

Q: Does Acatak interact with any common herbal supplements or vitamins?

A: Official regulatory documentation regarding interactions focuses on co-administration with other medicinal products, such as Ivermectin. The labeling does not specify or address interactions with herbal supplements or common vitamins.

Q: Is Acatak commonly prescribed off-label in other countries?

A: Regulatory information is strictly limited to the officially approved indications, dose, and use conditions within the authorized jurisdiction. Official documentation does not provide information regarding non-approved uses.

Q: Is it common for doctors to adjust the dose of Acatak after the first few weeks?

A: The official dose is strictly determined by the animal's bodyweight at the time of application. The product is then administered according to a fixed minimum interval of six weeks, as defined by the use protocol, rather than individualized dose adjustment based on early response.

Q: Are there any specific long-term health concerns mentioned in relation to Acatak?

A: The primary long-term constraint is the Mandatory Withholding Period (WHP) required to ensure food safety standards are met before slaughter. Regulatory research notes low certainty and limited evidence regarding long-term animal comfort or functional imbalance, which is a common area of ongoing study.

Q: Does research show Acatak is effective for managing symptoms in severe cases?

A: Controlled efficacy trials monitored outcomes like counting the number of engorged ticks and assessed the overall impact on parasite load. Studies reported patterns where the measured tick burden was observed to be lower in treated groups, which contributes to understanding its effect in heavy burden scenarios.

Q: Is Acatak available as a generic version yet?

A: The active ingredient in Acatak is Fluazuron. Whether a generic version is available depends on the relevant regulatory region and is subject to local product registration and patent status.

Q: What percentage of people experience the most common side effect listed for Acatak?

A: Side effect data is collected for the target species (cattle), not for humans. The most common adverse effects in cattle (application site effects) are described as transient but are not quantified with a specific percentage. Systemic effects like lethargy are classified as Very Rare (less than 1 in 10,000 treated animals).

Q: Can Acatak be taken by people who have [common pre-existing condition, e.g., high blood pressure]?

A: The official product information specifies that Acatak is a veterinary medicine strictly authorized only for use in beef cattle. The product is not approved, tested, or intended for human use for any condition, including those related to human health.

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

A: Official documents define Acatak as a veterinary medicine strictly for use in beef cattle. Since the product is not approved or intended for human use, there is no regulatory guidance on its effect on a person's ability to drive or operate machinery.

Q: Is Acatak safe for people with known kidney issues?

A: Official regulatory documents strictly limit the product's use to beef cattle. The medicine is not approved or intended for human use, and no information exists in the official labeling regarding human kidney issues or other human health conditions.

Q: Are there any specific side effects of Acatak reported by women only?

A: Acatak is officially defined as a veterinary medicine intended for use in cattle. Regulatory safety information concerning potential human handler hazards is provided but is not segregated or specified by gender.

Q: If I have a mild reaction to Acatak, should I be concerned?

A: The product is officially classified as an irritant that requires handlers to wear protective measures to avoid skin and eye damage. If a human handler experiences a reaction, the official materials advise seeking assistance from emergency services or a health professional.

Q: Does Acatak have a risk of addiction or dependence?

A: According to its classification, Acatak is an acaricide and Arthropod Growth Regulator intended exclusively for veterinary use. It is not classified as a controlled substance and is not associated with any risk of addiction or dependence.

Q: Is it true that Acatak interacts with alcohol?

A: The official product information confirms that Acatak is a veterinary medicine strictly authorized only for use in beef cattle. Since it is not approved or intended for human consumption, regulatory documents do not address any potential interactions with alcohol.

Q: Does Acatak show up on standard drug tests?

A: Official documents define Acatak as a veterinary medicine strictly authorized only for use in beef cattle. Since the product is not approved or intended for human use, its active ingredient is not relevant to standard human drug screening.

Q: What if I'm already taking medicine for another condition; is Acatak still an option?

A: Official documents define Acatak as a veterinary medicine strictly authorized only for use in beef cattle. Since the product is not approved or intended for human use, its interactions are only governed by rules for co-administration with other veterinary products.

Q: Do doctors ever prescribe Acatak to children?

A: The official product information specifies that Acatak is a veterinary medicine strictly authorized only for use in beef cattle. It is not approved or intended for human use, including for children.

Q: Are headaches a common side effect of Acatak?

A: Acatak is a veterinary medicine for cattle. Human handler hazards documented in the official labeling are limited to skin and eye irritation. Headaches are not listed in the regulatory documents as a common adverse event for either cattle or human handlers.

How should Acatak be stored and disposed of?

Acatak must be stored below 30°C (86°F) in a dry, cool place, which aligns with labeled room temperature requirements. The container must be kept in the original, tightly closed container and stored out of direct sunlight.

Security and Protection

The product must be stored locked up and out of reach of children, unauthorized persons, and animals. It should be kept away from food, feed, and ignition sources, and stored in a well-ventilated area.

Official Disposal

Disposal of both the contents and the container must adhere to all local, regional, and national regulations. It is strictly prohibited to contaminate dams, rivers, streams, or other waterways, as the product is very toxic to aquatic species. Empty containers should be triple or pressure rinsed before approved disposal, and the product or container must not be burned.

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

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