What medication is commonly used in the treatment of mites in pigs?

• A. Ivermectin
• B. Amitraz
• C. Fenbendazole
• D. Praziquantel

Answer: (A)

Treating mites in pigs requires an agent with strong activity against mites and good systemic reach to reach mites residing in the skin and tissues. Ivermectin, a macrocyclic lactone, provides broad ectoparasitic coverage, including efficacy against Sarcoptes scabiei var suis, which causes mange in pigs. It disrupts parasite neuromuscular transmission by opening glutamate-gated chloride channels, leading to paralysis and death of the mites, making it a reliable option for treating mange.

Amitraz can act as an acaricide in some species, but it is not routinely used or approved for pigs due to safety and withdrawal considerations. Fenbendazole targets nematodes and has little to no activity against mites. Praziquantel targets cestodes and also does not affect mites.