Cattlemax

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Cattlemax

Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

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 Cattlemax

Property Description
Active ingredient Ivermectin (pm Clorsulon)
Form Pour-On or Injectable Solution
Pharmacological class Endectocide (Avermectin)
Common use Control of internal and external cattle parasites
Origin Semisynthetic (derived from Streptomyces avermitilis)

What Type of Medicine is Cattlemax?

Cattlemax is a proprietary broad-spectrum veterinary antiparasitic formulated primarily for the comprehensive health management of beef cattle and dairy cattle populations. Its fundamental identity is that of an endectocide, a specific classification that confirms the formulation targets parasites residing both internally (endoparasites) and externally (ectoparasites). The core active compound is Ivermectin, which is a widely recognized member of the Avermectin class, a potent subset of the Macrocyclic Lactone family. This class of medicine is clinically recognized for its high potency against a broad range of susceptible pathogens.

Composition, Form, and Origin

The preparation relies on the active component, Ivermectin, a semisynthetic substance derived from the natural fermentation products of the soil organism Streptomyces avermitilis. Cattlemax is commercially positioned as a ready-to-use solution, available in distinct high-level dosage forms: a Pour-On Solution for convenient topical administration, and an Injectable Solution for subcutaneous delivery. Some variants, such as Cattlemax Plus, are combination products that incorporate a secondary active substance, like Clorsulon, to enhance the spectrum of coverage against specific internal threats. The specific Pour-On format is formulated to deliver the required dose via external application, a common method for managing external infestations.

How Does Cattlemax Provide Broad-Spectrum Control?

The capability for broad-spectrum control is attributed to the mechanism of Ivermectin's selective action on the physiology of invertebrate parasites. The compound binds selectively to glutamate-gated chloride ion channels in parasite nerve and muscle cells. This targeted action, which is distinct from mammalian nervous system function, leads rapidly to the disruption of the parasite’s nervous system, resulting in immediate paralysis and death. This foundational principle ensures that the formulation provides an effective and established means for the simultaneous elimination of diverse parasitic threats, fulfilling the product's general purpose.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH: Ivermectin Mechanism

What side effects are possible with Cattlemax?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Ivermectin-based veterinary products, as documented in official regulatory sources, focuses on classifying adverse events primarily by frequency and their location.

Official Adverse Reactions and Safety Scope

Feature Regulatory Description
Common Adverse Reactions The most frequently documented reactions are transient local effects at the administration site, such as mild discomfort, pain, or soft-tissue swelling following the injectable route. These reactions are typically self-limiting.
System-Organ Classes The primary systems involved are General disorders and administration site conditions and the Nervous System (in cases of severe overdose, which may include symptoms like ataxia or lethargy).
Serious Safety Concern The product label highlights the risk of severe host-parasite reactions, such as paralysis or bloat, which are explicitly linked to the death of certain migrating larvae (e.g., cattle grubs) within critical tissues.

Safety Constraints and Population-Specific Notes

The regulatory documentation enforces several specific limitations and constraints to ensure safety. The treatment is strictly prohibited for intravenous or intramuscular administration. Furthermore, the active ingredient is classified as extremely toxic to aquatic species.

Specific population constraints are imposed: the product is not for use in female dairy cattle of breeding age or lactating cows when milk is intended for human consumption due to residue concerns. The formulation is also not safe for use in other species outside of those specified on the label, with fatalities documented in species like dogs.

Summary of the Official Safety Profile

The official safety structure emphasizes that while most common reactions are minor and transient, the primary safety focus involves adherence to species restrictions, prohibited routes of administration, and critical timing to prevent serious, documented host-parasite reactions. The profile is defined by these high-level regulatory constraints.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

This section describes the officially documented manifestations of overdose for Ivermectin (the active ingredient in Cattlemax) and the specific emergency actions required according to governmental health and regulatory authorities.

Documented Overdose Manifestations

Overdose presentations are primarily grouped into effects on the gastrointestinal and central nervous systems. They are associated with ingesting doses significantly higher than prescribed, often from highly concentrated non-human formulations.

System Affected Officially Documented Manifestations
Gastrointestinal Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Abdominal pain, Stomach pain.
Central Nervous System Confusion, Decreased consciousness, Hallucinations, Loss of coordination (Ataxia), Tremors, Drowsiness, Dizziness.
Systemic/Severe Hypotension (low blood pressure), Tachycardia (fast heart rate), Seizures, Coma, and Death.

Emergency Actions Required

Official regulatory sources mandate specific immediate actions when an overdose is suspected or symptoms of toxicity occur:

  • Immediate Medical Treatment: Advise the individual to immediately seek medical treatment if they have taken Ivermectin and are experiencing any symptoms of toxicity.
  • Call Poison Control: Contact the Poison Control Center hotline (1-800-222-1222) for medical management advice.
  • Call 911/Emergency Services: If the affected person has collapsed, had a seizure, has trouble breathing, or cannot be awakened (unconsciousness), call emergency services immediately.

Antidote Status and Management: There is no specific antidote available for Ivermectin overdose. Management is supportive, consisting of procedures such as gastric lavage, respiratory support, and monitoring of systemic function.

Therapeutic Uses of Cattlemax

What Cattlemax Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

This formulation is commonly used to help with a wide range of parasitic conditions affecting cattle, providing supportive relief across multiple symptom axes. The medicine is relevant for managing systemic parasitic infections involving gastrointestinal roundworms, Lungworm, and Adult Liver Fluke (in combination products).

Comprehensive Control for Systemic and External Stress

This medication is used to address the symptoms related to systemic parasitic infections, primarily targeting the causes of chronic weight loss and ill-thrift. Furthermore, it assists in managing the symptom cluster of dermatological distress and intense itching related to external parasitic states. Managing these pathogens may support the animal's ability to cope with chronic discomfort and assists in managing symptoms that create noticeable physiological strain.

“Applied in strategic health programs, the treatment is commonly used to support long-term relief from reinfection by several key internal and external parasites.”

Strategic Protection for Sustained Well-being

The treatment is commonly applied in strategic health programs, offering persistent activity against reinfection by several key internal and external parasites. This long-term therapeutic support is considered relevant for young stock and breeding animals, and is used for managing symptoms that interfere with daily functioning, such as impaired growth and performance.

Quick Fact: Support for Symptoms Related to Poor Growth
Cattlemax helps manage conditions characterized by noticeable physiological strain, assisting animals to cope with symptoms related to chronic poor growth and weight management.

Regulatory References

  1. UK Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) Product Information

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

The eligibility for using Cattlemax is defined by regulatory bodies based on the animal’s type, status, and proximity to food production, establishing clear lines for acceptable and prohibited use.

Contraindicated Populations

Use is strictly prohibited in several defined populations based on official labeling:

  • Lactating Dairy Cattle: Female dairy cattle of breeding age, including those producing milk for human consumption, are absolutely contraindicated due to the absence of an established milk withdrawal time.
  • Veal Calves: The product is not to be used in pre-ruminating calves intended for veal processing, as a specific withdrawal period has not been established for this young stock category.
  • Pre-Slaughter: Any cattle must not be treated within the mandated pre-slaughter withdrawal period (which varies by product and region, typically 35–49 days).
  • Hypersensitivity: Cattle with a known history of hypersensitivity to Ivermectin or Clorsulon must not be treated.

Eligibility and Restriction Rules

Classification Rule Summary (Regulatory Basis)
Allowed Beef cattle and non-lactating dairy cattle (dry cows) that are outside of all withdrawal periods.
Restricted Use Non-lactating dairy cows must not be treated within a specified period (e.g., two months) before the expected calving date to prevent milk residue risk.
Conditional Use Pour-On formulations should only be applied to dry skin; activity is impaired if the hide is wet or soiled.

These constraints define the official eligibility profile, restricting the medicine's application to ensure adherence to mandated food safety and animal health standards.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interaction Map: Interactions with other medicines and products — official regulatory information for Cattlemax (Ivermectin)

Interaction Scope

Property Official Regulatory Statement
Medicinal product categories with documented interactions P-glycoprotein (P-gp) Inhibitors and Inducers; CYP3A4 Inhibitors; and Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin).
Specific interacting medicines (if explicitly listed) Warfarin (associated with post-marketing reports of increased International Normalized Ratio).
Mechanistic basis of interactions (only if stated in label) Pharmacokinetic: Ivermectin is a substrate for the efflux transporter P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and is primarily metabolized by the CYP3A4 enzyme.
Timing-based interaction rules (if applicable) Food: Administration of oral Ivermectin with a high-fat meal results in an approximate 2.5-fold increase in bioavailability, dictating that administration timing must be considered for consistent systemic exposure.
Interaction-related restrictions None based on drug-drug interaction risk alone; the only absolute restriction is for hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation.

Interaction Classifications (High-Level)

Classification Official Regulatory Statement
Interaction severity classification (as defined in official documents) Interactions involving Warfarin are subject to post-marketing monitoring due to reports of increased INR. Interactions with P-gp and CYP3A4 modulators alter systemic exposure.
Interaction-context constraints (as defined in official documents) Interaction with alcohol may increase the risk of the additive pharmacodynamic effects of dizziness and sleepiness.

Resulting Interaction Structure

The regulatory interaction profile for Ivermectin is defined by its role as a substrate for both the P-glycoprotein transporter and the CYP3A4 metabolic pathway, which form the basis for interactions that officially modify systemic exposure. This structure also includes documented food-related bioavailability constraints and specific pharmacodynamic outcomes, such as the reported effect on the coagulation measure International Normalized Ratio (INR) when co-administered with Warfarin. The official documentation focuses strictly on these label-identified pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic patterns.

Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of action for Cattlemax is defined by two fundamentally different pharmacodynamic domains: the disruption of nerve signaling and the inhibition of metabolic energy production.

Neuromuscular Disruption (Ivermectin)

Ivermectin acts as a positive allosteric modulator and agonist on the Glutamate-gated chloride ion channels ( GluCl) found specifically in the nerve and muscle cells of susceptible nematodes and ectoparasites. This action causes the channels to open continuously, leading to a massive influx of chloride ions ( Cl^-). The resulting hyperpolarization halts the transmission of nerve impulses, which triggers flaccid paralysis of the parasite’s motility and feeding muscles.

Metabolic Pathway Inhibition (Clorsulon)

Clorsulon introduces a distinct mechanism by acting as an inhibitor of critical enzymes, 3-phosphoglycerate kinase ( 3-PGK) and phosphoglyceromutase ( PGM), within the anaerobic glycolytic pathway of susceptible trematodes (flukes). By blocking these essential steps, the mechanism prevents the parasite from synthesizing ATP (energy). This cascade culminates in metabolic collapse and rapid energy depletion, an action that targets parasites resistant to the neuromuscular mechanism.

Dosage and Administration Information

Official Administration Guidelines for Cattlemax

The use of Cattlemax (Ivermectin and Clorsulon combination) is governed by specific instructions defining the required form, route, and dosing regimen. The product is provided as a sterile injectable solution containing 10 mg/mL Ivermectin and 100 mg/mL Clorsulon.

Labeled Administration and Dosing

The only approved method for administering this formulation is via subcutaneous injection; use of the intravenous or intramuscular routes is prohibited.

Administration Scope Official Instruction
Dosing Schedule The standard regimen is a single dose of 1 mL per 50 kg (110 lb) of body weight.
Dose Rate This volume delivers 200 mcg of Ivermectin and 2 mg of Clorsulon per kilogram of body weight.
Site and Volume Injection must be placed subcutaneously behind the shoulder. Doses exceeding 10 mL must be accurately divided and administered into two separate injection sites.
Temperature The product and equipment may be warmed to 15 C (59 F) if the ambient temperature is 5 C (41 F) or lower to ease the procedure.

Procedural Constraints

Administration requires the use of sterile equipment and proper sanitization of the injection site. Standard instructions emphasize that users must not underdose, as this is critical to the standardized treatment protocol. The prescribed dose is applicable to breeding animals, including bulls and cows. This single administration is associated with periods of persistent activity against certain susceptible parasites.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Cattlemax

This section summarizes the published research and regulatory clinical evaluations that form the research structure for the use of Ivermectin-containing products in cattle. It focuses on the study types, populations, and outcomes that research has examined, according to governmental and peer-reviewed scientific literature. Research does not determine whether an individual animal will respond similarly; findings describe group patterns observed in the studies.


Evidence for Control of Internal and External Parasites

Research exploring the use of this product in animals with endoparasitic and ectoparasitic infestations in cattle, such as gastrointestinal roundworms and external parasites, was evaluated primarily through Controlled Experimental Studies and Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs). Researchers measured key outcomes, including post-mortem worm counts for various nematode species and Faecal Egg Count (FEC) measurements. The evidence structure shows that trials monitored the status of parasite burdens, and studies report patterns related to measured reduction percentages in worm burdens.

What remains uncertain is the impact of existing anthelmintic resistance on observed measurements, as scientific literature notes that reduced efficacy has been observed in some naturally infected herds. Additionally, some scientific sources suggest that the sample sizes used in certain field testing methods may be modest for providing highly reliable statistical results.


Evidence Regarding Performance Metrics (Weight Gain and Ill-Thrift)

Research has also examined metrics related to physiological strain, which was explored in Controlled Field Trials. The studies monitored outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance, specifically measuring Average Daily Weight Gain (ADWG), total Weight Gain, and Body Condition Score (BCS). Data show patterns related to differences in weight gains and BCS measurements when comparing treated and untreated control groups during the study period.

Evidence for Combination Product Use (Liver Fluke)

Research exploring the use of this medication in animals with adult liver fluke was evaluated in the combination product only. These trials measured outcomes by assessing fluke counts in the liver and Faecal Egg Output in the observed cattle. What is still uncertain is that the evidence is exclusively tied to the combination product, and there is limited information regarding the effect on immature liver fluke stages.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Cattlemax (FAQ)


Q: What is the main difference between Cattlemax and other drugs that treat the same thing?

According to official product information, Cattlemax is described as a combination product that contains two different active substances: Ivermectin and Clorsulon. Ivermectin works primarily by affecting nerve signals in certain parasites, while Clorsulon acts by disrupting the energy pathways in liver flukes. This dual-mechanism profile is what defines its overall spectrum of use.


Q: How quickly should I expect to notice any effects from Cattlemax?

Regulatory documents do not state a precise time frame for the initial appearance of effects. Instead, the official information describes the medication as having persistent efficacy, meaning it continues to work against certain susceptible parasites for documented periods, often lasting several weeks, following a single dose.


Q: Does Cattlemax work for everyone who takes it?

Official research summarizes the outcomes seen in clinical trials, such as the average response or percentage of successful outcomes within the entire study group. Regulatory information does not provide any promise or guarantee an equivalent response for every individual treated. Findings reflect patterns observed across the study population.


Q: Is there a specific age group that Cattlemax is intended for?

The official eligibility section focuses on defining which populations are prohibited from using the product. For instance, the label strictly states that the product is not for use in pre-ruminating calves (veal) or female dairy cattle of breeding age. The constraints define populations for which the product is contraindicated or restricted, rather than defining a universally recommended age group.


Q: Are the common side effects of Cattlemax usually mild?

Official regulatory documents indicate that the most commonly reported reactions are transient local effects experienced at the injection site, such as mild discomfort, pain, or swelling. These reactions are typically described as transient and self-limiting, meaning they are temporary and resolve on their own.


Q: What is the purpose of the different strengths of Cattlemax tablets?

Official product information for Cattlemax describes its availability in two main forms: an Injectable Solution and a Pour-On Solution. The official label specifies the product as either an Injectable Solution or a Pour-On Solution, and information regarding different strengths of tablets is not contained within the regulatory description.


Q: Why is the eligibility section so detailed for Cattlemax?

The detailed constraints regarding who can and cannot use the product are aligned with regulatory efforts to uphold food safety standards. Restrictions on populations like lactating cattle are tied directly to mandated withdrawal times necessary to ensure that drug residues do not enter the food supply.


Q: What does it mean if Cattlemax is classified as a 'controlled substance'?

In many regions, the core active ingredient in Cattlemax, Ivermectin, is classified by governmental authorities as a controlled substance. In many regions, this classification indicates that the product is a prescription-only medicine (often Schedule 4), meaning it is accessible only via prescription from a licensed professional for its approved use.


Q: Is Cattlemax intended to be a permanent treatment?

Since the product is indicated for specific parasitic infections and the standard injectable administration is defined as a single dose, the regulatory profile indicates it is used to manage a current burden rather than being a continuous, permanent treatment.


Q: Is it important to take Cattlemax at the same time every day?

The official instructions for the injectable formulation define the administration as a single dose rather than a daily dosing schedule. Therefore, the concept of consistent daily timing does not apply to the product’s standard use conditions.


Q: Is there any difference in how Cattlemax is handled in different countries?

Regulatory bodies in different regions (such as the US, the EU, or Canada) publish their own official product information. This may lead to regional differences in non-core details like specific trade names, required withdrawal periods, or certain packaging details, which may allow for variations in regional requirements.


Q: How long after stopping Cattlemax does it stay in the body?

Regulatory documents define a measure called the withdrawal time to address this concern. This is the minimum required time (which can be several weeks) for drug residue levels to drop below official safety limits. The official label information specifies the withdrawal time as the critical regulatory measure, without always detailing the exact biological half-life.


Q: How is the long-term benefit of Cattlemax described in clinical reviews?

Official research and studies examine metrics related to the physiological health of the animals, such as Average Daily Weight Gain (ADWG) and Body Condition Score. They also document the product’s claims for persistent efficacy against certain susceptible parasites over a period of weeks following treatment.


Q: Is Cattlemax a generic medicine or a brand-name drug?

The name Cattlemax is the proprietary brand name given to the commercial product. The product contains the active ingredient Ivermectin, which is the name of the generic substance.


Q: Why does the packaging for Cattlemax mention needing regular checks?

Official documents describe that observation is necessary for specific safety constraints, such as monitoring for signs of severe host-parasite reactions, which are adverse events associated with the death of certain migrating larvae within the body.


Q: Is there a risk of dependence or withdrawal with Cattlemax?

The official safety profile and the comprehensive list of documented adverse reactions do not list dependence, abuse, or a formal withdrawal syndrome as known side effects associated with the approved single-dose use.

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Q: Does body weight influence the general recommendation for Cattlemax?

Yes, body weight is defined as the primary factor used to determine the necessary amount of product for administration. The official dosing instruction requires the dose volume to be calculated based directly on the body weight of the animal, making weight a primary factor.


Q: Is it common for people to need a dose adjustment after starting Cattlemax?

The regulatory label describes the use of a single, specific dose calculated by body weight. Instructions regarding requirements or criteria for subsequent dose adjustments are not included in the official documentation.


Q: Can people with high blood pressure generally take Cattlemax?

Official regulatory documents do not list high blood pressure (hypertension) as a specific contraindication or a condition that formally restricts the use of the product, according to the label.

How should Cattlemax be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Cattlemax?

The storage and disposal instructions for Cattlemax are defined by regulatory requirements to ensure product stability and environmental safety.

Storage Requirement Official Regulatory Statement
Temperature and Light Store at or below 25 C and protect from light. Do not freeze, but cloudiness from cold is reversible.
Security and Container Keep product out of reach of children (store locked up). The container must be closed tightly when not in use and kept away from ignition sources.
Disposal Disposal of contents and container must be done according to local regulations. Do not contaminate surface water or ditches, as the product is highly toxic to aquatic life.

Storage conditions are intended to prevent degradation and manage the product's classification as a flammable liquid.

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

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