Longrange

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Longrange

Method of action: Endectocides

Treatment option:

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 Longrange

Property Description
Active ingredient Eprinomectin
Form Extended-release sterile injectable preparation
Pharmacological class Endectocide (Macrocyclic lactone)
Common purpose Long-term control of internal and external parasites
Origin Semi-synthetic compound (derived from avermectins)

What is Longrange and What is its Pharmacological Class?

Longrange is an extended-release sterile injectable preparation, classified as a veterinary drug specifically developed for the long-term antiparasitic control of cattle. The medicine is classified as an endectocide, a pharmacological category recognized in veterinary medicine for its dual action against both internal parasites and external parasites simultaneously. Its active component, Eprinomectin, is clinically recognized as a member of the Macrocyclic lactone class of antiparasitics, derived from the avermectin family of compounds.


Composition, Origin, and Unique Form of Longrange

The therapeutic action is delivered by the single-ingredient Eprinomectin, which is a semi-synthetic compound synthesized from the naturally occurring avermectin family. The drug is supplied as an extended-release injection for subcutaneous injection. This unique long-acting form is critical to its function, utilizing a specialized polymer matrix (such as PLGA) within its base/vehicle to achieve a slow release of Eprinomectin over a prolonged duration.


What is the General Purpose of Longrange?

The general purpose of Longrange is to provide sustained, simplified long-term antiparasitic control. The product's dual endectocide capability offers comprehensive, single-application management of parasitic threats. The extended-release action maintains the compound's necessary concentration over time, which is essential for supporting continuous animal health by consistently interrupting the parasite life cycle. A typical use scenario involves using the injection to ensure continuous protection during critical grazing periods.

Regulatory References

  1. DailyMed - LongRange (Eprinomectin) Label

What side effects are possible with Longrange?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile for the Eprinomectin extended-release injectable product is defined by regulatory documents based on classified adverse reactions and specific constraints for use. The effects observed are categorized by frequency and the body system affected, consistent with official regulatory reporting standards.


Adverse Reaction Classification and Frequency

Adverse reactions documented in regulatory sources are generally classified as uncommon (occurring in fewer than 1 in 100 treated animals). These reactions fall primarily into three System-Organ Classes:

  • General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions: Reactions related to the injection, such as temporary swelling and inflammation at the site of administration.
  • Nervous System Disorders: Documented systemic signs include lethargy and ataxia (loss of full control of body movements).
  • Gastrointestinal Tract Disorders: Observations of anorexia (loss of appetite) have been noted.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Constraints

The regulatory profile acknowledges the potential for severe neurological signs—an uncommon, yet serious, adverse reaction that may necessitate supportive care.

Official labeling includes population-specific safety constraints for use. The product is not intended for use in calves that are less than one month of age or those weighing less than 100 kg. This restriction represents a mandated safety limitation defined in the regulatory documentation. Furthermore, the label notes a known sensitivity within the Macrocyclic lactone class of compounds in certain animal breeds, reflecting a high-level safety consideration for the drug's active ingredient.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Official regulatory information for Longrange (Eprinomectin) primarily addresses hazards related to accidental human exposure and high-dose findings in laboratory studies. There is no specific antidote listed in the product's official labeling for Eprinomectin toxicity.

Documented Overdose Manifestations

Symptoms documented in high-dose studies involving susceptible non-target species include ataxia (incoordination), tremors, mydriasis (dilated pupils), and salivation. For humans, accidental ingestion is classified as having the potential for Central Nervous System (CNS) damage and damage to other organs.


Regulator-Mandated Emergency Actions

Immediate emergency actions are mandated for accidental human exposure, as detailed in regulatory safety documents:

  • Seek Immediate Medical Attention: If accidental exposure occurs, or if the user feels unwell or is concerned, they must seek medical advice immediately. If the product is swallowed, immediately call a Poison Center/doctor.
  • First-Aid Steps: Instructions include rinsing the mouth and moving to fresh air. Symptoms of poisoning may have a delayed onset, potentially requiring medical observation.

Population-Specific Consideration

Specific regulatory warnings highlight that the excipient N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) is associated with reproductive and developmental toxicities in animals at high, repeated exposures. Special handling precautions are therefore required for pregnant individuals.

Therapeutic Uses of Longrange

What Longrange Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

The therapeutic focus of Longrange is relevant in contexts involving heightened systemic burden caused by parasitic threats. It is commonly used in situations involving certain distressing symptoms and systemic imbalance. This medication is applied across therapeutic domains where supportive symptom management is appropriate.

This includes managing symptom clusters related to gastrointestinal and respiratory roundworm infections, as well as conditions where symptoms related to inflammatory or irritative states are driven by external parasites like lice and mange mites. The medication is also relevant for easing symptoms that create noticeable physiological strain, which often manifest as changes in weight gain or feed utilization.

The primary benefit is that this application supports productivity and assists with maintaining functional stability. By offering continuous management across key domains, Longrange contributes to overall well-being.


Quick Fact: Relief for Parasite-Induced Strain

The medication is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute or episodic manifestations caused by both internal and external parasites. This supportive relief generally helps animals cope more steadily with symptom fluctuations, assisting with maintaining functional stability.

Regulatory References

  1. US FDA's Animal Drugs @ FDA

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

The official eligibility profile for Longrange (Eprinomectin extended-release injectable) strictly defines the populations permitted and prohibited from treatment, based on governmental regulatory labeling. While generally allowed for use in cattle, several groups are explicitly excluded or subject to mandatory conditions.

Populations Who Must Not Use Longrange

Use is contraindicated and prohibited for several specific categories:

  • Female dairy cattle 20 months of age or older, including dry dairy cows.
  • Breeding bulls.
  • Calves to be processed for veal.
  • Animals with a known hypersensitivity to the active substance or excipients.
  • Other animal species, as the product is developed for cattle only.

Age and Management Restrictions

  • The product is not for use in calves less than 3 months of age.
  • It is not for use in cattle managed in feedlots or under intensive rotational grazing.
  • Treated cattle intended for human consumption are subject to a mandatory 48-day withdrawal period; animals must not be slaughtered within 48 days of the last injection.

These rules ensure adherence to regulatory constraints concerning who can be treated under approved conditions.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products for Longrange

This section outlines the officially documented interaction patterns for Longrange (Eprinomectin) as published by government regulatory authorities.

Interaction Scope

Property Description
Medicinal product categories with documented interactions: Macrocyclic lactone class of antiparasitics.
Specific interacting medicines (if explicitly listed): Other Eprinomectin formulations (e.g., Eprinomectin Pour-On product).
Mechanistic basis of interactions (only if stated in label): Pharmacodynamic (additive effect) and exposure modification (risk of accumulation due to long-acting formulations).
Timing-based interaction rules (if applicable): Must not be administered within 90 days following treatment with an Eprinomectin Pour-On product.

Official Interaction Statements

The primary interaction constraints for this extended-release injectable preparation relate to its chemical class and long duration of action.

  • The administration of Longrange with other products belonging to the Macrocyclic lactone class of antiparasitics is restricted. This restriction is based on the potential for an additive pharmacodynamic effect associated with the increased concentration of these chemically similar compounds.
  • A mandatory administration timing rule is documented to manage exposure risk. Specifically, Longrange must not be administered within 90 days (three months) following treatment with any Eprinomectin Pour-On product. This timing separation is required due to the long-acting characteristics of both formulations.
  • No formal interactions or restrictions are explicitly documented in the official prescribing information regarding co-administration with food, feed, supplements, or herbal products.

The regulatory documents define the product's interaction structure based entirely on the chemical class constraints and necessary timing separation, rather than pharmacokinetic interactions with other unrelated veterinary medicines.

Mechanism of Action

Selective Activation of Invertebrate Chloride Channels

The active component, Eprinomectin, acts as a selective agonist that binds to glutamate-gated chloride ion channels ( GluCl), a molecular structure found only in the nerve and muscle cells of susceptible parasites. This interaction triggers a massive, sustained influx of chloride ions ( Cl^-) into the cell, which causes the cell membrane to become severely hyperpolarized, inhibiting its electrical activity.

Cascade Leading to Flaccid Paralysis

The sustained hyperpolarization blocks the ability of the parasite's neurons and muscle cells to generate action potentials, leading to a complete, systemic failure of the neuromuscular pathway. This resulting flaccid paralysis prevents the organism from moving, attaching, or feeding, which are the physiological consequences that ultimately lead to organism clearance. The mechanism exhibits a high degree of functional selectivity because mammals lack this primary GluCl target, thus limiting effects on the host's own nervous system.

Dosage and Administration Information

How Longrange is Used: Official Administration Guidelines

The administration of Longrange (Eprinomectin extended-release sterile injectable preparation) follows a specific protocol. The medicine is strictly designated for subcutaneous injection only, ensuring the long-acting formulation is delivered correctly beneath the skin in the neck region of the animal.

Administration Details

Feature Labeled Instruction
Route of Administration Subcutaneous injection only (SC)
Dosing Rule Calculated to deliver 1.0 mg of Eprinomectin per kilogram (kg) of body weight.
Dosing Frequency Intermittent use defined by a long, cyclical re-treatment interval.

The required dose must be precisely calculated based on the animal’s current body weight to achieve the required 1.0 mg/kg amount. The product is administered as a single dose per cycle, and its extended-release action determines the subsequent re-treatment interval, which typically ranges from 100 to 150 days.

Procedural Conditions

To ensure proper delivery and function of the specialized formulation, the product must be warmed to room temperature before it is administered. Furthermore, the use of a sterile injection system is required. The instruction to use the subcutaneous route is critical, as the official label strictly prohibits intravenous or intramuscular administration. This procedural structure ensures the correct therapeutic window is achieved as part of a long-term parasite management plan.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Evidence from Pivotal Trials for Parasite Control in Cattle

The research supporting Longrange was evaluated in Pivotal Regulatory Trials, typically Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) conducted under protocols required by governmental health authorities (e.g., US FDA). The drug was studied for its role in controlling internal and external parasitic infections associated with acute illness. Research focused on confirming the compound was observed for a prolonged duration to examine its effect on parasite burden. Findings describe patterns related to parasite presence over time, tracking management of symptom clusters linked to gastrointestinal and respiratory roundworms, as well as inflammatory or irritative states caused by external parasites like lice and mange mites.


Study Outcomes Examined: Beyond Parasite Load

Research examined more than parasite elimination; it explored outcomes reflecting daily functioning and economic indicators. Studies were evaluated in terms of production variables like average daily gain (ADG) and overall body weight (BW), which are outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance associated with parasitic presence. Furthermore, in cow-calf trials, research explored reproductive measures (e.g., pregnancy rates). The findings provide insight into how the medicine's action was associated with changes in these functional metrics during the study period.


Research Duration and Long-Term Follow-up

A critical aspect studied is the duration of the medicine’s activity. Regulatory protocols required assessing persistent activity for up to 120 to 150 days following a single administration. Research was observed in animals over defined time intervals to assess the duration of activity. However, long-term effects are not fully established regarding subsequent use beyond the trial duration. While these durations confirm the extended-release characteristic, the effects beyond this defined window remain uncertain.


Research in Specific Cattle Populations

Longrange was evaluated in the general population of cattle, including subgroups such as calves and cow-calf pairs. Despite this wide observation, data for certain groups remain insufficient. Initial regulatory safety assessments did not investigate the use of the medicine in calves younger than 3 months of age. This means the results apply only to the populations studied and that data for certain groups remain insufficient regarding this age range.


Research Gaps and Areas of Uncertainty

This section synthesizes what is known — and what is still uncertain — about the research base. Regulatory documents have noted the need for additional large-scale commercial field trials to fully explore specific program outcomes. Further research is ongoing regarding the medicine's environmental impact. Studies have observed a simplification of the dung insect community that may persist for several months. The long-term ecological consequences are not fully established, and this area research is ongoing.

Key Studies & References

  1. NADA 141-267 Longrange (Eprinomectin) Extended-Release Injectable: Freedom of Information Summary
  2. Efficacy of a new long-acting injectable eprinomectin formulation against nematode and arthropod parasites in cattle: a randomized controlled trial

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Longrange (FAQ)

Q: How long does it typically take to feel the effects of Longrange?

A: Official documents describe the active ingredient, Eprinomectin, as a selective agonist that rapidly binds to certain channels in the target parasites. This interaction triggers immediate electrical changes that lead to flaccid paralysis. This mechanism suggests the effect on the parasite begins at a molecular level shortly after administration.


Q: Can Longrange be taken long-term?

A: Longrange is designated for use as part of a long-term parasite control plan. The official label states that the medicine provides persistent activity for 100 to 150 days following a single injection. It should be noted that the regulatory studies did not fully establish the effects of the drug beyond the defined trial duration.


Q: Does Longrange interact with common over-the-counter pain relievers?

A: According to the official product information, known interaction constraints are limited only to other medicines that belong to the Macrocyclic lactone class of antiparasitics. The label does not document any formal interactions or restrictions concerning medicines outside of this chemical class.


Q: Is it possible to take Longrange with vitamin supplements?

A: The official label for Longrange does not document formal interaction warnings regarding the co-administration of the medicine with supplements. The interaction constraints focus primarily on a specific class of antiparasitic compounds.


Q: Are there specific foods or drinks to avoid while taking Longrange?

A: Based on the official product information, there are no formal interactions or restrictions documented regarding co-administration of this medicine with specific foods or feed. The regulatory documents define interactions based on its chemical class rather than dietary constraints.


Q: What does the official research say about how well Longrange works?

A: Regulatory research observed measures of efficacy against key parasites, reporting mathbfgeq 95% reduction in egg counts over the 120-day study period. Studies also reported that the use of the product was associated with greater average daily gains in treated animals.


Q: Does Longrange cause any changes in weight?

A: Pivotal research for Longrange specifically examined outcomes related to average daily gain (ADG) and body weight (BW). Regulatory trials reported that treated animals had significantly higher ADG when compared to control groups during the 120-day observation period.


Q: Are there any known interactions between Longrange and alcohol?

A: Since Longrange is officially approved and labeled only for use in cattle, the official product information does not document any formal interactions or restrictions regarding co-administration with alcohol. The constraints focus entirely on other veterinary medicines of a specific chemical class.


Q: Does Longrange need to be stored in the refrigerator?

A: Regulatory guidelines specify that Longrange should not be refrigerated. Official storage instructions require the product to be kept at 77 F (mathbf25 C), with acceptable temperature excursions between 59 F and 86 F (15 C and 30 C).


Q: What if I'm taking multiple prescriptions; can I still use Longrange?

A: The interaction constraints defined in the official documentation are specific, applying only to other medicines within the Macrocyclic lactone class of antiparasitics. The label does not provide warnings regarding the simultaneous use of Longrange with unrelated veterinary prescriptions.


Q: What kind of evidence led to the approval of Longrange?

A: The regulatory approval for Longrange was based on findings from Pivotal Regulatory Trials, including studies that confirmed the correct dosing and its effectiveness. This evidence reported mathbfgeq 95% effectiveness against key parasites over a 120-day period and confirmed the expected persistent activity.


Q: Does Longrange interact with any herbal products?

A: The official label for Longrange does not document formal interactions or restrictions regarding the co-administration of the medicine with herbal products. The regulatory focus for interactions is limited to specific chemical classes of antiparasitic medicines.


Q: Is Longrange different from other medicines that treat the same condition?

A: Official sources describe Longrange as the first and only extended-release injectable dewormer in its pharmacological class. The long-acting formulation provides persistent parasite control for 100 to 150 days following a single dose, which is a longer duration than many conventional antiparasitic options.


Q: Why is Longrange sometimes prescribed instead of other options?

A: The primary distinction highlighted in official labeling is its ability to provide persistent parasite control for 100 to 150 days in a single administration. This long duration of activity is described as simplifying the overall long-term parasite management plan.


Q: How long do the side effects of Longrange usually last?

A: The official label notes that certain post-injection reactions, such as temporary swelling or granulomas, have been observed in studies. These reactions have typically disappeared without treatment in the subjects monitored during the safety trials.


Q: Where can I find the official prescribing information for Longrange?

A: The complete, official prescribing information for Longrange is made publicly available by regulatory bodies. You can find this information on authoritative government databases, such as DailyMed and the FDA’s Animal Drugs @ FDA website.


Q: Is Longrange considered a 'new' drug?

A: According to the regulatory documents, Longrange was approved under a New Animal Drug Application (NADA) by the FDA in September 2011. This date reflects the initial approval status of this specific extended-release injectable preparation.


Q: Can women who are planning pregnancy take Longrange?

A: Official safety documentation includes a human health warning stating that women intending to become pregnant, those who are pregnant, and those who are breastfeeding should avoid handling this product. This warning is related to the safe handling of the product.


Q: What happens after I stop taking Longrange?

A: The official document specifies a mandatory 48-day withdrawal period after treatment, during which the animal should not be slaughtered. This constraint is required to ensure that the medicine has sufficiently cleared the system prior to being processed for human consumption.


Q: How quickly does Longrange leave the body?

A: The active ingredient is primarily excreted from the system via the faeces. Due to the specialized extended-release formulation, the compound can remain quantifiable in the faeces for up to 189 days post-dose, reflecting the drug's prolonged duration of action.


Q: Are there any major drug warnings associated with Longrange?

A: Official documents detail warnings, including the mathbf48-day slaughter withdrawal period specified for treated animals. There are also strict prohibitions against use in dairy cattle ge 20 months old, breeding bulls, and calves less than 3 months of age.


Q: How do I know if the Longrange tablet I have is expired?

A: The official label provides clear instructions regarding the medicine's in-use stability. Specifically, the product should be discarded after 3 months from the date of the first stopper puncture or after a maximum number of punctures is reached.


Q: What's the difference between Longrange and a supplement?

A: Longrange is classified by the FDA as a veterinary drug and an endectocide, which is a type of medicine used to treat both internal and external parasites. This classification requires a New Animal Drug Application and mandates that the product is available only by prescription, unlike supplements which are regulated differently.


Q: Are there any known long-term risks associated with Longrange?

A: Official information describes two main areas of long-term risk. One involves the potential for contributing to anthelmintic resistance due to the drug's prolonged depletion time. The second is related to environmental hazards, specifically concerning its impact on dung insects and aquatic organisms.


Q: How is the safety of Longrange monitored after it has been approved?

A: The official caution statement restricts the use of this medicine to by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. This regulatory requirement provides professional oversight of the product's administration, supporting ongoing safety monitoring.


Q: What is the recommended timeframe for reviewing treatment with Longrange?

A: The medicine’s effect is characterized by its persistent activity for a duration of 100 to 150 days following a single injection. This established timeframe for its activity is what defines the appropriate re-treatment interval in a parasite management plan.


Q: Why is Longrange a prescription-only medicine?

A: Longrange is classified as a prescription-only medicine because Federal law restricts its use to by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. This status is required to support the correct administration of the medicine and the observation of specified safety constraints.


Q: Is Longrange related to any other drugs with a similar name?

A: The active ingredient, Eprinomectin, is classified as belonging to the Macrocyclic lactone class of antiparasitic compounds. This is a large chemical family that includes several other well-known, related medicines.


Q: Are there specific lab tests required before starting Longrange?

A: The administration guidelines require the dose to be precisely calculated based on the animal’s current body weight to deliver the mandated mathbf1.0 mg/kg amount. Therefore, an accurate weight measurement is specified prior to administration.

How should Longrange be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Longrange

Official labeling defines strict requirements for storing and disposing of this product to maintain its stability and ensure safety.

Storage Requirements

Condition Requirement
Temperature Store at 77 F (25 C); excursions allowed between 59 and 86 F (15 and 30 C).
Protection Protect from light and keep container tightly closed. Avoid exposure to heat, sparks, or flame.
Child Safety Keep out of the reach of children.
In-Use Stability Discard the product 3 months after the first stopper puncture or after a maximum number of punctures is reached, whichever comes first.

Disposal Instructions

To prevent environmental contamination, do not dispose of Longrange by flushing it down a toilet or pouring it into a drain. Disposal must be conducted through an approved waste disposal plant or by following official guidelines for container disposal, such as using an approved landfill or incineration. Do not contaminate water with the drug or its containers.

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

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