Amitraz (Mitaban®, Preventic®, Certifect®) for Dogs and Cats

Overview of Amitraz for Dogs

• Amitraz is a topical parasite control agent, better known as Mitaban®, Certifect® or Preventic®, and is used to treat demodectic mange, fleas and ticks for dogs.
• The action of amitraz is not thoroughly understood, but it is suspected to work by interfering with the nervous system of susceptible parasites.
• Amitraz is often used in dogs for management of a serious skin parasite that causes demodectic mange.
• Amitraz is also used for control of ticks in dogs.
• Some forms of amitraz are available without a prescription but should not be administered unless under the supervision and guidance of a veterinarian.

Brand Names and Other Names of Amitraz

• This drug is registered for use in animals only.
• Human formulations: None
• Veterinary formulations: Mitaban® (Upjohn), Preventic® (Allerderm/Virbac), Taktic® (Hoechst/Roussel) and various generic brands.

Uses of Amitraz for Dogs

• Amitraz is primarily used to treat the skin disease demodectic mange.
• It is also used for tick prevention.

Precautions and Side Effects

• While generally safe and effective when prescribed by a veterinarian, amitraz can cause side effects in some animals.
• Amitraz should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug.
• Amitraz should be avoided in animals less than four months of age.
• Amitraz is generally **not recommended for use in cats. **The collars are never recommended for cats. However, the solution can be used to treat Demodicosis in cats if diluted and with careful monitoring for adverse side effects.
• Caution must be used in diabetic animals due to an effect on blood sugar (glucose). Diabetic people should avoid contact with amitraz.
• Caution must be used when applying this to very small, toy breed dogs.
• Amitraz may interact with other medications. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if other drugs your pet is receiving could interact with amitraz. Such drugs include corticosteroids and azathioprine.
• Sedation may occur after administration of amitraz. This sedation may continue for up to 72 hours.
• Ingestion of amitraz, especially when the drug is incorporated into tick collars, can lead to poisoning and toxicity. Yohimbine or atipamezole are antidotes for amitraz toxicity.

How Amitraz Is Supplied

• Amitraz is available as a 19.9 percent topical solution for dogs.
• Amitraz collars include a 9 percent tick collar for dogs.
• Amitraz is also available as a spot-on Solution (Certifect) for Dogs.

Dosing Information of Amitraz for Dogs and Cats

• Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian.
• Long and medium-haired dogs should be clipped prior to administration of amitraz.
• Place one 10.6 ml bottle of amitraz into two gallons of warm water; mix and apply to the dog using the instructions provided by the label or your veterinarian.
• A diluted concentration of amitraz is used in cats and they are carefully monitored for potential side effects. It is important that cats not lick the wet solution off their hair coats. An e-collar is recommended to prevent this until their hair is completely dry.
• Allow the hair and skin to air dry (do not rinse off).
• Repeat the treatment every 14 days for three to six treatments or as directed by your veterinarian.
• The duration of administration depends on the condition being treated, response to the medication and the development of any adverse effects. Be certain to complete the prescription unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. Even if your pet feels better, the entire treatment plan should be completed to prevent relapse or prevent the development of resistance.

Anti-Parasitic Drugs (External)

Dermatology & Integumentary diseases