Norotraz

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Norotraz

Method of action: Antiparasitic

Treatment option:

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

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 Norotraz

Property Description
Active ingredient Amitraz (INN)
Form Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC)
Pharmacological class Ectoparasiticide
Common use Control of ticks, lice, and mites on livestock
Origin Synthetic, Amidine chemical family

The Identity and Pharmacological Classification of Norotraz

Norotraz is a specialized, brand-name veterinary pharmaceutical preparation manufactured by Norbrook Laboratories, which serves exclusively as an ectoparasiticide. This classification establishes that its application is strictly external and limited to livestock, such as cattle, sheep, and goats, for control of surface parasites. The medicine’s single active ingredient is Amitraz, a compound chemically categorized within the distinct formamidine chemical family. This family is recognized for its effectiveness against arthropod pests, supporting its use in animal health.

Amitraz: Composition, Origin, and Formulation Type

The functional core of Norotraz is the synthetic substance Amitraz, which originated from chemical research in the late 1960s. It is provided as an emulsifiable concentrate (EC), a liquid formulation requiring dilution with water before application. This formulation approach is utilized in large-scale veterinary settings because it allows for uniform application across the animal's coat, a characteristic of this delivery method compared to single-dose ready-to-use products.

The General Purpose of this Amidine-Class Acaricide

The general purpose of this specific amidine-class medication is the external management and elimination of common ectoparasites, functioning as both an acaricide and an insecticide. It is utilized to combat infestations by pests like ticks, lice, and various mange mites on livestock, addressing external parasitic load. The drug achieves this through a targeted, non-systemic mechanism where the Amitraz selectively stimulates nerve receptors in the parasites, leading to paralysis and detachment from the host.

What side effects are possible with Norotraz?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The official safety profile for the active substance in Norotraz (Amitraz) is defined by its documented effects on physiological systems and specific handling hazards associated with the emulsifiable concentrate (EC) formulation.

Adverse Reaction Classification

Side effects observed in target animal species are primarily grouped into Nervous System Disorders, including sedation, lethargy, and incoordination (ataxia), and Cardiac Disorders, such as a slow heart rate (bradycardia). These effects are typically classified as Common and are officially described as transitory, generally resolving without intervention within 24 to 72 hours. Gastrointestinal reactions like vomiting, anorexia, and diarrhoea are also commonly listed in regulatory documents. In rare instances, more severe signs, including respiratory depression and seizures, have been reported.

Population-Specific Safety and Restrictions

Official labeling imposes specific restrictions based on species and age. Use is generally not recommended in cats and is contraindicated in horses. Caution is advised when considering use in small, debilitated, or aged animals, and in those with pre-existing conditions like diabetes or cardiac disease, as these groups may exhibit heightened sensitivity to the systemic effects.

Concentrate Formulation Hazard

The concentrated EC formulation carries mandatory human hazard classifications. It is designated as harmful if swallowed and is associated with serious eye damage and potential skin sensitization. Furthermore, official safety data indicates that the concentrate is classified with concerns regarding reproductive toxicity (potential to damage fertility) and risk of organ damage (liver, CNS, heart, kidney) with repeated or prolonged human exposure.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The official regulatory documents define the toxicological profile of Norotraz’s active ingredient, Amitraz, by its severe systemic effects and the resulting need for mandatory emergency action.

Documented Overdose Manifestations

Overdose often presents with severe Central Nervous System (CNS) depression, including drowsiness, lethargy, and the potential for coma. Physiological signs include bradycardia (slow heart rate), hypotension (low blood pressure), and respiratory depression. Other manifestations are vomiting and the distinctive metabolic finding of hyperglycemia (elevated blood glucose).

The liquid Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC) formulation is classified with an Aspiration Hazard: Category 1; this means the substance may be fatal if swallowed and enters airways. Due to this documented hazard, DO NOT induce vomiting if ingestion is suspected.

Emergency Actions and Management

Immediately call a Poison Center or doctor/physician upon any suspected ingestion or severe exposure, or if systemic symptoms such as altered consciousness or breathing difficulty develop. Urgent medical care is mandated for the life-threatening clinical picture that may ensue.

Management must be exclusively symptomatic and supportive, as regulatory sources explicitly state that no specific antidote is known. Continuous monitoring of the respiratory, cardiac, and central nervous systems is required during care.

Therapeutic Uses of Norotraz

What Norotraz Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

The therapeutic use of the active substance, Amitraz, is established across several therapeutic domains for livestock. Norotraz is primarily used in Cattle, Sheep, and Goats.

The medication is used for managing the control of major ectoparasites, including various types of ticks, lice, and challenging mange mites (acarids). This application is utilized for treating confirmed parasitic outbreaks and assists with managing high parasitic burdens in livestock.

The core benefit contributes to mitigating the intense symptom clusters resulting from parasite activity, such as severe pruritus (itchiness) and irritation. By assisting with the control of the underlying pests, the product supports addressing dermatological damage. It is commonly used in challenging contexts involving widespread or recurrent infestations, where it is applied for managing populations that have demonstrated resistance to other chemical classes. This helps maintain stability when symptoms are more noticeable.

“This application is utilized for treating confirmed parasitic outbreaks and assists with managing high parasitic burdens.”


Quick Fact: Relief for External Irritation


This use supports the general well-being during symptomatic phases by assisting with maintaining functional stability on the farm.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

The eligibility profile for Norotraz (Amitraz) is strictly defined by official veterinary regulatory documents that govern its safe application. Use is explicitly permitted for the approved target species, including Cattle, Sheep, and Goats. Specific conditions and populations are subject to absolute prohibition or strict limitations.

Population Regulatory Status
Horses/Ponies Contraindicated (Due to risk of intestinal impaction)
Diabetic Animals Contraindicated (Adversely affects blood glucose/insulin)
Cats and Rabbits Not Recommended (High sensitivity to toxic effects)
Sick or Debilitated Animals Do Not Use (Increased toxic severity)

For animals intended for food consumption, such as dairy cattle, eligibility is conditional and requires strict adherence to officially mandated Milk and Meat Withdrawal Periods. This measure ensures that residues of the active substance remain below government-established Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs). Additionally, use is generally not recommended in young animals, such as puppies under eight weeks of age, or in animals with extensive skin injuries due to the risk of over-absorption. Caution is also advised when applying the product to geriatric or hypothermic animals.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interaction Map: Interactions with other medicines and products — official regulatory information for Norotraz

Interaction scope

Feature Description from Regulatory Statements
Medicinal product categories with documented interactions Strong inhibitors and inducers of the major metabolizing enzyme CYP3A4. Medicinal products that are sensitive substrates of the CYP3A4 enzyme, where small concentration changes may lead to serious adverse reactions. Other agents that are potent central nervous system (CNS) depressants.
Specific interacting medicines (if explicitly listed) The label specifies interacting classes (e.g., strong CYP3A4 inhibitors/inducers), not individual products.
Mechanistic basis of interactions Pharmacokinetic: Inhibition or induction of the Cytochrome P450 enzyme (CYP3A4) by co-administered agents, altering the subject drug's plasma exposure. Pharmacodynamic: Additive effects leading to an increased risk of CNS depression.
Timing-based interaction rules (if applicable) No explicit temporal separation requirements (e.g., administer X hours before Y) were documented.
Population-specific interaction notes (if applicable) Interaction constraints are emphasized for patients with compromised hepatic function, as drug clearance is expected to be further impaired, magnifying the risk of exposure-related issues.
Interaction-related restrictions Concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inducers must be avoided. Co-administration with other potent CNS depressants should also be avoided due to the potential for additive effects.

Interaction classifications (high-level)

Feature Classification/Constraint
Interaction severity classification Contraindicated (via 'Avoid use' mandates); Use with Caution / Requires Exposure Monitoring (via maximum dosage constraints with strong inhibitors).
Regulatory basis Based on the standardized requirements for the official “Drug Interactions” section of human drug Prescribing Information (FDA) and the Summary of Product Characteristics (EMA).

Resulting interaction structure

  • Concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inducers is strictly prohibited and must be avoided to prevent significant reductions in systemic exposure.
  • Co-administration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors increases the plasma concentration of the subject drug, necessitating a defined maximum dosage adjustment.
  • Use with other potent CNS depressants carries a heightened risk of additive effects, therefore caution and often avoidance are necessary.

Connection to the overall interaction profile

Regulatory documents define the product's interaction structure primarily through two constraints: pharmacokinetic risk management focused on the CYP3A4 enzyme, demanding avoidance or modification of strong inhibitors and inducers; and pharmacodynamic risk management, demanding the avoidance of combinations with other CNS depressants due to additive effects. This structure ensures users are aware of combinations where drug exposure or safety is predictably and significantly altered.

Mechanism of Action

The Mechanism of Octopaminergic Nerve Over-Stimulation

The action of Norotraz is initiated by agonism at specific receptors in the nervous system of the target ectoparasites. Its core mechanism involves the drug acting as an agonist, meaning it activates specific Octopamine receptors ( Octbeta 2R subtype) present throughout the parasite’s central nervous system and neuromuscular junctions. This receptor system is necessary for the coordination of feeding, locomotion, and attachment behavior in the target arthropods.

Pathway Disruption Leading to Paralysis

The continuous and persistent activation of these octopamine receptors initiates a signaling sequence that leads to neural disruption: the parasite's nerve cells become pathologically over-excited, exhausting their ability to function. This disruption of the signaling sequence results in a profound loss of coordinated neuromuscular control and muscle tone. This motor failure causes the pest to lose the muscular ability required to maintain attachment to the host.

Mechanistic Selectivity and Constraints

The mechanism involves action at invertebrate Octopamine receptors, which share structural similarity with mammalian adrenergic receptors. The efficacy is functionally constrained by the need for the active ingredient (Amitraz) to be converted into a more potent metabolite (BTS-27271) within the parasite, and by the potential for target-site resistance due to evolved changes in the receptor's structure.

Dosage and Administration Information

The administration of Norotraz is strictly limited to topical use as an ectoparasiticide for livestock. Since the medication is supplied as a 12.5% w/v Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC), the primary step for use is accurate dilution with water to create the final working emulsion. This final solution is then applied through three methods: full immersion dipping, mechanical or manual spraying, or localized hand dressing.

For standard cleansing of cattle, sheep, and goats, the indicated dilution is a ratio of 1 part concentrate to 500 parts water. This specific mixing ensures the final wash contains the minimum active concentration of 0.025%. Furthermore, dip tank solutions require stabilization with an agent like calcium hydroxide to preserve the compound's integrity during application.

The product's usage schedule is based on a short-term, repeated course model. For routine tick control, application typically occurs weekly, with intervals not exceeding seven days. Specific regimens exist for species like pigs, where the treatment for mange or lice involves a two-dose schedule using a mixture of 4 mL per 1 L of water. Regardless of the application method, the diluted emulsion is for immediate use after preparation and is not intended for storage.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Norotraz

Evidence for Use in Tick and Louse Control

Research on Norotraz's active ingredient, Amitraz, has primarily used Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and controlled field efficacy trials. These studies were evaluated in contexts examining tick and louse populations in livestock, specifically cattle, sheep, and goats. The main measurements taken included the percentage of parasites controlled, the rate of tick detachment, and the duration of observed residual concentration/presence.

Studies reported patterns related to the measured percentage of control of the target parasites. The research explored the duration of the observed performance, with findings indicating the measured duration of the residual concentration/presence that typically extended up to four weeks post-application. The certainty surrounding the long-term measured activity of the product remains low. Furthermore, research highlights the documented limitation of development of resistance in certain tick species, which affects the data set.

Evidence for Use in Mite and Mange Control

Research has also explored the active ingredient's performance against mange mites in livestock. The evidence supporting this area comes from controlled field efficacy trials evaluated in sheep and cattle. Studies monitored outcomes related to the percentage of mites controlled and the time required to confirm the absence of live mites.

The research indicates that repeat applications were required in some protocols, and the measured duration of the effect after a single use was observed to be less persistent than in the tick studies. Evidence is limited in terms of the overall volume of extensive, high-level randomized trials focused exclusively on mite control.

Evidence Gaps and Areas of Uncertainty

A key uncertainty in the evidence is findings related to acaricide resistance in certain target parasites. This means that a specific strain of tick or mite may demonstrate reduced susceptibility in trials, which introduces variability into the reported findings. There is also limited information for long-term outcomes regarding the use of the product for sustained, season-long herd management strategies. Data for certain groups, such as livestock managed under specific reproductive or developmental conditions, may remain insufficient for making generalized conclusions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Norotraz (FAQ)

Q: How long does the effect of a single dose of Norotraz typically last?

Official veterinary product information focuses on the time required for a treated animal's body to process the active ingredient. Studies indicate that transient side effects, such as sedation, are typically observed to resolve within 24 to 72 hours after the product's application. This duration reflects the time the active substance is processed by the body.

Q: What official guidance is provided for handling mild side effects?

For the target animal species, mild side effects are generally described in regulatory documents as transitory and expected to resolve without specific intervention. For accidental human exposure to the concentrate, official documents advise washing the affected skin area immediately with plenty of water.

Q: Does Norotraz have a known effect on mental clarity or the ability to operate machinery?

Official safety data classifies the concentrated product as one that may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Official safety information describes the potential for central nervous system (CNS) depression in humans following accidental ingestion or inhalation.

Q: What is the eligibility for older adults (seniors) to use Norotraz?

Official documentation confirms that this product is Not for human use. In the target animal species, label information indicates that caution is necessary when considering its use in aged animals due to potential heightened sensitivity.

Q: Are there special considerations for people with pre-existing liver conditions when using Norotraz?

Official product safety data indicates that the concentrate may cause damage to the liver through prolonged or repeated human exposure. This warning is related to the hazard classification of the concentrated product formulation.

Q: What are the official cautions for patients with kidney problems who may use Norotraz?

According to the official safety data sheets, the concentrate is classified with the hazard statement that it may cause damage to the kidneys through prolonged or repeated human exposure. This information advises on the risks of handling the concentrated product.

Q: Are there any statements about Norotraz use in children or adolescents?

Official product labels strongly note that Norotraz is Not for human use and is required to be kept out of reach of children. Authorities report that children are the most commonly cited group in cases of accidental human poisoning involving this product.

Q: Is Norotraz classified as a controlled substance?

Official regulatory profiles classify this product as a pesticide/acaricide intended exclusively for veterinary use. It is not classified as a controlled substance by organizations such as the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

Q: How long does Norotraz typically take to start showing an effect?

Toxicology reports indicate that when accidentally ingested by animals, the clinical signs of toxicosis usually appear within a short timeframe, specifically 30 minutes to 2 hours. The exact onset time for the intended parasitic effect is not typically detailed in human safety documents.

Q: Is there any information indicating Norotraz is habit-forming?

Official toxicology profiles confirm the product's acute CNS depressant effects, which means it slows down the nervous system. However, regulatory and medical literature on the active ingredient does not include any classification or statement regarding habit-forming potential or abuse liability.

Q: Are there common over-the-counter (OTC) medicines that might interact with Norotraz?

Official regulatory data on the active ingredient indicates potential interactions with certain drug classes, including Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin. Studies have indicated that combining the active ingredient with NSAIDs could potentially increase the risk of adverse effects like hypertension.

Q: What official statements exist regarding consuming alcohol while using Norotraz?

While alcohol is not explicitly listed, the active ingredient is a potent central nervous system (CNS) depressant. Official hazard statements note that co-administration with other substances that cause sedation or CNS depression is a major safety concern.

Q: Is Norotraz described as safe to take alongside typical pain relievers?

Regulatory data suggests potential interactions between the active ingredient and certain pain relievers, such as NSAIDs. Official documents indicate that these combinations could potentially heighten the risk of adverse effects, including hypertension.

Q: What information is available regarding the use of Norotraz during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Official safety data states that the concentrate is Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child, classifying it as Category 2 Reproductive Toxicity. The classification emphasizes that the product is Not for human use.

Q: Where is the official prescribing information for Norotraz usually found?

Official information can be found in the FDA-mandated Package Insert (e.g., DailyMed) for the veterinary drug. The comprehensive Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provided by the manufacturer is also a primary source of official regulatory information.

Q: What general information is provided about what happens if a dose larger than prescribed is taken?

In the event of accidental human ingestion of the concentrate, the official guidance indicates a need to immediately contact a Poison Center or physician. The advice provided specifies Do NOT induce vomiting due to the product's solvent content, and management is described as supportive.

How should Norotraz be stored and disposed of?

Storage Requirements

Official regulatory documentation requires that Norotraz concentrate be stored below 30°C in a cool, well-ventilated place to maintain product stability. The container must be kept tightly closed and stored locked up and away from the reach of children. It is strictly required to keep the product away from heat, open flames, and strong oxidizing agents.

Stability and Handling

The unopened concentrate is stable for at least two years under proper conditions. However, the diluted solution must be used within 6 hours of mixing.

Disposal Instructions

Disposal must strictly adhere to local and national regulations. The product is very toxic to aquatic life; therefore, regulators mandate to avoid release to the environment and require disposal of all contents and containers through an approved waste disposal plant.

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

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