Generic Name
Amitraz

Brand Name
Mitaban Liquid Concentrate, Preventic Tick Collar for Dogs

Type of Drug
Pesticide, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

Form and Storage
Liquid and collars. Store at room temperature.

Indication for Use
Treatment of generalized demodectic mange in dogs (liquid), control of ticks on dogs (collar-see note at end of amitraz section).

General Information
FDA approved for use in dogs. Mitaban is available by prescription. The tick collars are available over the counter. Amitraz kills mites and ticks by interfering with their nervous system.

Demodex mites are natural inhabitants of the skin which are usually kept under control by the body's immune system. The mites are passed from mother to offspring while the puppies are nursing and tends to be on the head and front legs to start. If the immune system is weakened due to genetics, illness, or stress, the mites may overpopulate and cause dry skin and hair loss. About half of the puppies with demodectic (red) mange recover with minimal treatment. Some of the remainder recover with intensive treatment and some will have the problem for life. Any dog diagnosed with demodectic mange, and the dog's siblings, and parents should NOT be used for breeding, as there is a genetic component to the disease. Older dogs with chronic diseases or treatments that weaken their immune systems (like cancers) may have problems with demodex and need treatment. Other treatments are available for localized infections and if the pet has a reaction to this medication.

Usual Dose and Administration
Mitaban Dip: May be bathed in a benzoyl peroxide shampoo first to clean the skin and haircoat. Long haired dogs may be shaved to allow the dip to penetrate to the skin. After application, do not rinse or towel dry. Do not comb/brush the animal between treatments. Usually used as a dip every 1-2 weeks until there are two consecutive negative skin scrapings for demodex. Usually administered by trained personnel in a veterinary clinic due to side effects.

Preventic collars for the prevention of tick infestations are available over the counter. They should be placed on the pet snug enough to allow 2 fingers to fit between the collar and the neck. Regularly monitor the tightness of the collar, especially in growing dogs. Amitraz collars do NOT control fleas. The collar should be replaced every 4 months. Normal rainfall will not affect the collar, but remove it before bathing. Remove if any sign of irritation occurs. Do not handle the collar and do not allow children to handle or play with the collar. Do not use the collar on sick dogs.

Side Effects
May see sedative effect for 24-72 hours after the dip. The animal may develop dry skin and haircoat. With the dip, may also see decreased body temperature, high blood sugar levels, seizures, or death.

Contraindications/Warnings
People on MAOI containing medication or who are diabetic should not administer the dips. Nausea and dizziness have been noted in people who handle the medication.

Avoid handling the dog for several days after treatment. Wash skin that has contacted the animal. Sensitive people may develop a skin irritation.

Use only in a well-ventilated area. Use gloves: do not allow skin contact with the medication.

Safety in dogs under 4 months of age has not been established.

Toy breeds may be more likely to have side effects due to their small size.

Do not stress patient for 24 hours after treatment.

Place protective ointment in animal's eyes prior to dipping.

Do not use in dogs with deep skin infection until infection is controlled.

Do not use in diabetic dogs or those taking other MAOIs.

Not recommended for localized demodex or other types of mites.

Not to be taken internally.

Not for use on pregnant or nursing animals.

Not for use in cats.

Drug Interactions
Do not mix with other pesticides.

Do not use with other MAOIs.

Avoid immunosuppressive drugs (corticosteroids and chemotherapeutic agents) if possible as they further depress the immune system.

Overdose/Toxicity
May see incoordination, depression, high blood sugar levels, slow heart rate, decreased body temperature, or death. Amitraz containing collars may cause serious toxicity if eaten. Contact your veterinarian or the Animal Poison Control Center if you think your pet may have accidentally received or been given an overdose of the medication.