Understanding Ivermectin Concentration in Horse Paste: Dosage and Milligram Conversion

When dealing with horse deworming pastes, understanding the concentration of the active ingredient, ivermectin, is crucial for proper administration. However, finding the specific milligram content can often be perplexing for horse owners. This article aims to clarify the common concentrations of ivermectin in horse paste and provide guidance on dosing based on your horse's weight.

What Is Ivermectin in Horse Paste?

Ivermectin is a widely used deworming medication that comes in various formulations, including paste. When administered to horses, it effectively eliminates parasitic worms, improving the horse's overall health and well-being.

Concentration and Dosage

The concentration of ivermectin in horse paste can vary depending on the brand and formulation. However, a commonly used concentration is 1.87% ivermectin. This means that a typical syringe of horse paste dewormer contains approximately 114 milligrams (mg) of ivermectin per 6.08 grams (g) of paste.

Calculation: 6.08 g / 100 * 1.87% 114 mg of ivermectin

Understanding Dosage for Horses

For most horse owners, this information is not necessary since they typically follow the label instructions based on their horse's body weight. The dosage is usually adjusted using a “dial-a-worm” ring on the syringe plunger. This allows for easy and accurate administration, often with a safety margin built into the dosing system.

Conversions and Brand Variability

When looking for specific milligram or milliliter (ml) content per tube, it is helpful to know that a single dose tube of common paste wormers containing ivermectin as the primary ingredient typically has about 6000 mg of ivermectin, assuming a 1.87% concentration.

It is also important to note that the exact milligram or milliliter content can vary depending on the brand. For example, if a tube is formulated to work for a 1300 lb or 1100 lb horse, it may contain 1.5% ivermectin, which would translate to a different milligram content. However, the manufacturer's instructions on the packaging should provide clear dosing guidelines specific to the product.

Key Points to Remember

Consult the Label: Always refer to the product label for dosing instructions based on your horse's weight. Brand Variability: Be aware that the concentration of ivermectin can vary among different brands. Professional Guidance: If you are unsure about dosing or the specific concentration, it is best to consult a veterinarian for guidance.

Safety Considerations: The use of ivermectin in humans should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional, and self-administration of horse paste ivermectin is not recommended.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the concentration of ivermectin in horse paste is important for proper dosing. By following the label instructions and consulting the packaging or a veterinarian, horse owners can ensure safe and effective deworming for their equine companions. Remember, it is always better to be cautious and seek professional advice when in doubt.