FDA Issues Emergency Use Authorization for Over-the-Counter Injectable Drug to Prevent New World Screwworm in Cattle

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Ivomec (ivermectin) injectable solution against New World screwworm (NWS). The agency has concluded that based on the scientific evidence available, it is reasonable to believe that Ivomec may be effective for the prevention of infestations caused by NWS larvae (myiasis) in cattle when administered within 24 hours of birth, at the time of castration, or when a wound appears, and the known and potential benefits of the product outweigh its known and potential risks. 

Ivomec is not for use in female dairy cattle producing milk for human consumption and calves that will be processed for veal. The slaughter withdrawal period for cattle is 35 days.