F Imperiale

Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Olavarría, Provincia de Buenos Aires, Argentina

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Publications (20)28.58 Total impact

  • Article: Residual concentrations of the flukicidal compound triclabendazole in dairy cows' milk and cheese.
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    ABSTRACT: Triclabendazole (TCBZ) is a flukicidal halogenated benzimidazole compound extensively used in veterinary medicine. Liver fluke control in lactating dairy cattle is difficult because treatment should be implemented only during the dry period to avoid milk residues. However, control in endemic areas is usually implemented as regular treatments three to four times a year, even during the lactating period. Thus, information on TCBZ milk excretion and the risk of the presence of drug residues in fluid milk and milk-derivate products is essential. The experimental aims were to evaluate the comparative disposition kinetics of TCBZ and its sulpho-metabolites in plasma and milk in lactating dairy cattle after the oral administration (12 mg kg(-1)) of TCBZ and to assess the pattern of residues in cheese made with milk from treated dairy cows. Both TCBZ sulphoxide and sulphone metabolites but not TCBZ were detected in milk (up to 36 and 144 h, respectively) and plasma (up to 144 h) after oral administration of TCBZ. Residual concentrations of TCBZ sulpho-metabolites were found in cheese made with milk from treated animals. The total average residual concentration in fresh cheese was 13.0-fold higher than that obtained in milk used for its elaboration. The high concentrations of TCBZ sulpho-metabolites recovered in fresh cheese should be seriously considered before milk from treated cows is used for making dairy products.
    Food Additives and Contaminants - Part A Chemistry, Analysis, Control, Exposure and Risk Assessment 02/2011; 28(4):438-45.
  • Article: Cattle nematodes resistant to macrocyclic lactones: comparative effects of P-glycoprotein modulation on the efficacy and disposition kinetics of ivermectin and moxidectin.
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    ABSTRACT: The role of the drug efflux pump, known as P-glycoprotein, in the pharmacokinetic disposition (host) and resistance mechanisms (target parasites) of the macrocyclic lactone (ML) antiparasitic compounds has been demonstrated. To achieve a deeper comprehension on the relationship between their pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic behaviors, the aim of the current work was to assess the comparative effect of loperamide, a well-established P-glycoprotein modulator, on the ivermectin and moxidectin disposition kinetics and efficacy against resistant nematodes in cattle. Fifty (50) Aberdeen Angus male calves were divided into five (5) experimental groups. Group A remained as an untreated control. Animals in the other experimental Groups received ivermectin (Group B) and moxidectin (Group C) (200 microg/kg, subcutaneously) given alone or co-administered with loperamide (0.4 mg/kg, three times every 24 h) (Groups D and E). Blood samples were collected over 30 days post-treatment and drug plasma concentrations were measured by HPLC with fluorescence detection. Estimation of the anthelmintic efficacy for the different drug treatments was performed by the faecal egg count reduction test (FECRT). Nematode larvae were identified by pooled faecal cultures for each experimental group. Cooperia spp. and Ostertagia spp. were the largely predominant nematode larvae in pre-treatment cultures. A low nematodicidal efficacy (measured by the FECRT) was observed for both ivermectin (23%) and moxidectin (69%) in cattle, which agrees with a high degree of resistance to both molecules. Cooperia spp. was the most abundant nematode species recovered after the different drug treatments. The egg output reduction values increased from 23% to 50% (ivermectin) and from 69% to 87% (moxidectin) following their co-administration with loperamide. Enhanced systemic concentrations and an altered disposition of both ML in cattle, which correlates with a tendency to increased anthelmintic efficacy, were observed in the presence of loperamide. Overall, the in vivo modulation of P-glycoprotein activity modified the kinetic behavior and improved the efficacy of the ML against resistant nematodes in cattle. The work provides further evidence on the high degree of resistance to ML in cattle nematodes and, shows for the first time under field conditions, that modulation of P-glycoprotein may be a valid pharmacological approach to improve the activity and extend the lifespan of these antiparasitic molecules.
    Experimental Parasitology 06/2010; 125(2):172-8. · 2.12 Impact Factor
  • Article: Licking induced changes to the pattern of moxidectin milk elimination after topical treatment in dairy cows.
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    ABSTRACT: Pour-on administration of the macrocyclic lactones anti-parasitic compounds in beef and dairy cattle is now worldwide accepted. However, the information available on their milk excretion pattern, after topical administration is rather limited. Additionally, the cattle licking behaviour has been proven to affect the kinetics of these anti-parasitic compounds. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of the natural licking behaviour on the plasma and milk disposition of moxidectin (MXD), topically administered (500 microg/kg) in lactating dairy cows. Ten lactating Holstein dairy cows (705 kg body weight) were allocated into two experimental groups (n = 5). The licking was prevented during 5 days postadministration in animals in group I, and the remaining cows (group II) were allowed to lick freely. MXD concentrations profiles were measured in plasma and milk over 15 days posttreatment. The licking restriction period caused marked changes in MXD disposition kinetics both in plasma and milk. Both plasma and milk MXD concentrations (partial AUC 0-5 days) were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in licking-restricted cows. After the 5-day of restriction period, the animals were allowed to lick freely, which permitted the oral ingestion of MXD, situation clearly reflected both in plasma profile and milk excretion pattern. Despite the enhanced MXD milk concentrations measured in free-licking cows, drug concentrations did not reach the maximum MXD residues limit.
    Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics 12/2009; 32(6):534-40. · 1.18 Impact Factor
  • Article: Failure of ivermectin and eprinomectin to control Amblyomma parvum in goats: characterization of acaricidal activity and drug pharmacokinetic disposition.
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    ABSTRACT: The therapeutic efficacies of ivermectin (subcutaneous injection) and eprinomectin (topical treatment) given at two different dosage levels to goats naturally infested with Amblyomma parvum were assessed. Treatments included subcutaneous injection of ivermectin at 0.2 and 0.4mg/kg and extra-label pour-on administration of eprinomectin at 0.5 and 1mg/kgb.w. Ivermectin and eprinomectin failed to control Amblyomma parvum on goats. Treatment with ivermectin resulted in a low number of engorged female ticks in relation to untreated control goats and, at the highest dose rate (0.4mg/kg), the female engorgement weights were significantly lower and the pre-oviposition period significantly longer than those observed in ticks recovered from untreated control goats. The tick efficacy assessment was complemented in a separate group of tick-free goats with a pharmacokinetic characterization of eprinomectin (topically administered at 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5mg/kg) and ivermectin (subcutaneous treatment given at (0.2 and 0.4mg/kg) in goats. Heparinized blood samples were taken between 0 and 21 days post-treatment. Higher and more persistent drug plasma concentrations were recovered after the subcutaneous treatment with ivermectin compared to those obtained for eprinomectin topically administered. The understanding of the relationship among the pattern of drug absorption, the kinetic disposition and the resultant clinical efficacy is relevant to improve the poor performance observed for ivermectin and eprinomectin against A. parvum on goats.
    Veterinary Parasitology 06/2008; 156(3-4):284-92. · 2.58 Impact Factor
  • Article: Ivermectin (3.15%) long-acting formulations in cattle: absorption pattern and pharmacokinetic considerations.
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    ABSTRACT: Ivermectin (IVM) is a broad-spectrum antiparasitic drug extensively used in veterinary medicine. The composition of the pharmaceutical preparation affects IVM absorption and its systemic availability. After the introduction of the first approved IVM formulation (propylene glycol/glycerol formal 60:40) used at 200 microg/kg, different pharmaceutical modifications have been assayed to extend IVM persistent endectocide activity. Recently, IVM 3.15% long-acting (IVM-LA) preparations to be administered at 630 microg/kg to cattle were introduced into the veterinary pharmaceutical market. The work reported here was designed to evaluate the comparative IVM absorption pattern and plasma concentration profiles obtained after subcutaneous administration of the classic pioneer IVM formulation (1%) and two different commercially available IVM-LA preparations (3.15%) to cattle. Twenty-eight Holstein heifers were divided in four experimental groups (n=7) and treated subcutaneously as follows--Group A: IVM 1% given at 200 microg/kg, Group B: IVM 1% administered at 630 microg/kg, Group C: IVM-LA (A) injected at 630 microg/kg and Group D: IVM-LA (B) given at 630 microg/kg. Blood samples were taken between 0.5 and 90 days post-treatment and IVM plasma concentrations were determined by HPLC with fluorescence detection. There were no differences in the persistence of IVM plasma concentrations after the administration of IVM 1% formulation at the two used dose levels (200 and 630 microg/kg). Higher peak plasma concentration (C(max)) and shorter mean residence time (MRT) were obtained for IVM 1% given at 630 microg/kg (Group B) compared to the treatments with both IVM-LA preparations. The IVM-LA (A) formulation showed a more extended absorption process than IVM-LA (B) preparation, which accounted for a longer persistence of detectable IVM plasma concentrations. The parasitological implications of the observed differences in peak plasma concentrations (C(max) values) and in the IVM concentration levels measured from day 20, and afterwards until day 90 post-treatment, between the different preparations assayed need to be elucidated. The characterization of the absorption patterns and kinetic behaviour obtained after injection of these novel long-acting formulations used at three times the therapeutic dose recommended for the classic IVM preparation in cattle is a further contribution to the field.
    Veterinary Parasitology 08/2007; 147(3-4):303-10. · 2.58 Impact Factor
  • Article: Doramectin concentration profiles in the gastrointestinal tract of topically-treated calves: Influence of animal licking restriction.
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    ABSTRACT: Endectocide compounds are extensively used for broad-spectrum parasite control and their topical administration to cattle is widespread in clinical practice. Pour-on formulations of moxidectin, ivermectin, eprinomectin and doramectin (DRM) are marketed internationally for use in cattle. However, variability in antiparasitic efficacy and pharmacokinetic profiles has been observed. Although the tissue distribution pattern for different endectocide molecules given subcutaneously to cattle has been described, only limited information on drug concentration profiles in tissues of parasite location after topical treatment is available. Understanding the plasma and target tissue kinetics for topically-administered endectocide compounds is relevant to optimise their therapeutic potential. The current work was designed to measure the plasma and gastrointestinal (GI) concentration profiles of DRM following its pour-on administration to calves. The influence of natural licking behaviour of cattle on DRM concentration in mucosal tissue and luminal content of different GI sections was evaluated. The trial was conducted in two experimental phases. In Phase I, the DRM plasma kinetics was comparatively characterised in free-licking and in 2-day licking-restricted (non-licking) calves. The pattern of distribution of topical DRM to mucosal and luminal contents from abomasum, duodenum, ileum, caecum and spiral colon was assessed in free-licking and non-licking calves restricted over 10 days post-administration (Phase II). The prevention of licking caused marked changes on the plasma and GI kinetics of DRM administered pour-on. In 2-day licking restricted calves, DRM systemic availability was significantly lower (29%) than in free licking animals during the first 9 days post-treatment. Following a 10-day long licking restriction period, DRM concentrations profiles in both mucosal tissue and luminal contents of the GI tract were markedly higher in animals allowed to lick freely. This enhancement in drug concentrations in free-licking compared to non-licking calves, was particularly pronounced in the abomasal (38-fold higher) and duodenal (six-fold higher) luminal content. As shown earlier for ivermectin, licking behaviour may facilitate the oral ingestion of topically-administered DRM in cattle. This would be consistent with the marked lower drug concentration profiles measured in the bloodstream and GI tract of the animals prevented from licking. The work reported here provides relevant information on the pattern of DRM distribution to the GI tract after pour-on treatment, and contributes to understand the variability observed in the antiparasitic persistence of topically-administered endectocides in cattle. The implications of natural licking in topical treatments are required to be seriously assessed to achieve optimal parasite control and to design parasitological and pharmacological studies within the drug approval process.
    Veterinary Parasitology 11/2005; 133(1):61-70. · 2.58 Impact Factor
  • Article: Pharmacokinetic evaluation of four ivermectin generic formulations in calves.
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    ABSTRACT: The plasma concentration profiles of four randomly chosen ivermectin (IVM) generic formulations (IVM G1-G4) were compared after their subcutaneous (SC) administration to healthy calves. The disposition of other avermectin-type endectocide compounds, doramectin (DRM) and abamectin (ABM), was also assessed in the same pharmacokinetic trial. Forty-two parasite-free Aberdeen Angus male calves were randomly allocated into six treatment groups. Animals in each group (n = 7) received SC treatment (200 microg/kg) with one of the commercially available endectocide formulation used in the trial. Blood samples were taken into heparinised vacutainer tubes from the jugular vein prior to and up to 35 days post-treatment. The recovered plasma was analysed by HPLC with fluorescence detection. Large kinetic differences were observed among the DRM, ABM and IVM formulations under evaluation. The DRM plasma concentration profiles were higher than those measured for ABM and all the IVM generic formulations. The higher and sustained plasma concentrations of DRM accounted for greater area under concentration-time curve (AUC) and longer mean residence time (MRT) values compared to those obtained for both ABM and the IVM generic preparations. The pattern of IVM absorption from the site of subcutaneous administration showed differences among the generic formulations under evaluation. The IVM G2 preparation showed higher peak plasma concentration and AUC values (P < 0.05) compared to those obtained after the administration of the IVM G1 formulation. Longer (P < 0.05) MRT values were obtained after the administration of the IVM G3 compared to other IVM generic preparations. The kinetic behaviour of ABM did not show significant differences with that described for most of the IVM formulations. This study demonstrates that major differences on drug kinetic behaviour may be observed when using different endectocide injectable formulations in cattle.
    Veterinary Parasitology 01/2004; 119(2-3):247-57. · 2.58 Impact Factor
  • Article: A detailed assessment of the pattern of moxidectin tissue distribution after pour-on treatment in calves.
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    ABSTRACT: The use of topical (pour-on) administration of endectocide drugs in cattle has reached world-wide acceptance. However, only limited information is available on the kinetic behaviour for topically administered moxidectin (MXD). To improve our understanding of the relationship between pharmacokinetics and efficacy for pour-on preparations, MXD concentration profiles were measured in tissues of endo- and ectoparasites location over 35 days postadministration. MXD distribution to the fluid content and mucosal tissue of the abomasum and different intestinal sections (duodenum, ileum, caecum and colon) was assessed. The comparative patterns of MXD distribution to skin and hypodermic tissue from different anatomical sites (backline, rib cage, thigh and face) were also investigated following the pour-on administration. Wide tissue distribution and long residence time characterized the kinetics of topically administered MXD. MXD was recovered between 1 and 35 days post-treatment in all the tissues investigated. The highest MXD availabilities were observed in the skin layers at the site of administration (backline) and in the fat tissue. The fluid contents of different intestinal sections showed MXD concentrations higher than those measured in their respective mucosal tissues, particularly at day 1 post-treatment. MXD concentrations in the skin (epidermis + dermis) were higher than those measured in the hypodermic tissue. Large differences in the availability of MXD in skin from different anatomical regions (backline > rib cage > thigh > face) were observed. The low plasma and the high skin availability indicate the formation of a skin depot of the drug, being released slowly to the plasma and reaching concentrations in systemic tissues (abomasal mucosa, lungs, etc.) similar to those measured after subcutaneous administration. These findings demonstrate that target parasites may be exposed to markedly different drug concentrations according to their location sites, which is particularly relevant for ectoparasites located in different anatomical regions. Knowledge of the tissue distribution of topically administered endectocides contributes to understand the differences observed in efficacy and/or persistence of activity and to optimize their use in cattle.
    Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics 12/2003; 26(6):397-404. · 1.18 Impact Factor
  • Article: Determination of ivermectin and moxidecin residues in bovine milk and examination of the effects of these residues on acid fermentation of milk.
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    ABSTRACT: Ivermectin (IVM) and moxidectin (MXD) are broad-spectrum antiparasitic drugs not approved for use in dairy animals, although their use in dairy sheep, goats and cattle nevertheless occurs in many parts of the world. The work reported here describes (1) the application of an HPLC method (including milk samples clean-up and chemical extraction) to quantify IVM and MXD residues in bovine milk, and (2) an assessment of the effect of different IVM and MXD concentrations on bovine milk acid fermentation. The latter was carried out using the 'yoghurt test' to determine the minimum IVM and MXD concentrations affecting milk acid fermentation. The sample clean-up, chemical extraction and the validated HPLC method allowed the quantification of IVM and MXD up to 0.1 ng ml(-1) in milk with acceptable validation coefficients. Drug recoveries from fortified milk samples ranged between 72% (CV = 9.1%) and 75% (CV = 13.3%) for MXD and IVM, respectively. Neither IVM nor MXD affected the acid fermentation of bovine milk. In fact, there was no drug-induced changes on milk acidity even at IVM and MXD concentrations as high as 1000 ng ml(-1). These results indicate that the yoghurt biological test is not suitable to evaluate the presence of milk residues for these antiparasitic compounds. Thus, a highly sensitive HPLC technique is the only reliable method for determining the presence of residual concentrations of IVM and MXD in milk and dairy products to assure consumer safety.
    Food Additives and Contaminants 10/2002; 19(9):810-8. · 2.13 Impact Factor
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    Article: Breed differences on the plasma availability of moxidectin administered pour-on to calves.
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    ABSTRACT: The pharmacokinetic profile of avermectin and milbemycin compounds is affected by different drug- and host-related factors. This work reports the influence of cattle breeds on the plasma kinetics of moxidectin (MXD) after topical (pour-on) administration. Parasite-free Aberdeen Angus and Holstein calves were treated with a commercial MXD pour-on formulation at 500 microg/kg. Blood samples were collected over a period of 35 days post-treatment and the recovered plasma was analysed by high performance liquid chromatography using fluorescence detection. MXD was detected in plasma from two hours up to 35 days post-treatment in animals from both breeds. A slow MXD absorption and delayed peak plasma concentration were observed in Aberdeen Angus compared to Holstein calves. Significant lower systemic availability (expressed as AUC) (P<0.01) and peak plasma concentration (C(max)) (P<0.05) were also observed in Aberdeen Angus calves, although the plasma mean residence time (MRT) and elimination half-lives (T(1/2el)) of MXD in both breeds were similar. The pharmacokinetic differences observed between cattle breeds contribute to explain the variability in the pattern of clinical efficacy for pour-on administered endectocide compounds reported in different field trials.
    The Veterinary Journal 07/2002; 164(1):47-53. · 2.24 Impact Factor
  • Article: Loperamide-induced enhancement of moxidectin availability in cattle.
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    ABSTRACT: Moxidectin (MXD) is a milbemycin endectocide compound active at extremely low dosages against a wide variety of nematode and arthropod parasites. Different pharmacological approaches are currently being tested to delay the bile-faecal elimination and to obtain increased systemic availability for endectocide molecules in ruminants. Loperamide (LPM) is an opioid derivative, whose main pharmacological action is to abolish intestinal propulsive peristaltic waves. The influence of LPM on the pattern of faecal excretion of MXD and on its plasma disposition following intravenous (i.v.) and subcutaneous (s.c.) administrations to cattle was evaluated in the current work. Parasite-free calves were treated with MXD given either alone at 200 microg/kg by i.v. (Experiment 1) and s.c. (Experiment 2) administrations or coadministered with LPM subcutaneously injected at 0.4 mg/kg. Blood and faecal samples were collected over a period of 20 (Experiment 1) and 40 (Experiment 2) days post-treatment. The recovered plasma and faecal samples were extracted and analysed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) using fluorescence detection. Significantly higher MXD plasma concentrations were obtained after the coadministration of MXD + LPM compared with treatments with MXD alone by both routes. The higher MXD plasma concentration profiles measured after the coadministration with LPM accounted for the significantly higher AUC values obtained following the i.v. (> 46%) and s.c. (> 38%) treatments. A reduced MXD body clearance was observed in the presence of LPM. The appearance of MXD in faeces was significantly delayed after the i.v. and s.c. coadministrations of MXD with LPM (T(1/2app)=5.87 and 10.6 h, respectively) than that observed after the treatment with MXD alone (T(1/2app)=3.48 and 5.12 h). A delayed MXD peak concentration in faeces collected from MXD + LPM-treated animals compared with those receiving MXD alone, was observed. The delayed intestinal transit time caused by LPM and a potential competition between MXD and LPM for the P-glycoprotein-mediated bile/intestinal secretion processes, may account for the enhanced MXD systemic availability measured in cattle in the current work.
    Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics 05/2002; 25(2):111-20. · 1.18 Impact Factor
  • Article: Depletion of moxidectin tissue residues in sheep.
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    ABSTRACT: The pattern of tissue depletion of moxidectin (MXD) subcutaneously administered to sheep was characterized in this study. MXD concentration profiles were determined in muscle, fat, and liver and at the site of injection following administration of a formulation combining MXD (0.5% w/v) with a standard 6 in 1 clostridial vaccine. Thirty-five (35) parasite-free Lincoln sheep were treated with the MXD injectable formulation at a dose rate of 0.2 mg of MXD/kg of live weight, administered subcutaneously on the inner surface of the thigh. Treated animals were sacrificed in randomly selected groups of six sheep weekly from day 21 until day 49 post-treatment. Three nontreated animals were sacrificed to obtain blank tissue samples to validate the analytical methodology. MXD concentration profiles were determined by a validated HPLC analytical method using fluorescence detection. MXD has an adequate pattern of absorption, based on the low residual concentrations found in the injection site area at all sampling intervals. Muscle samples showed the lowest MXD concentrations throughout the study period. The highest MXD concentrations at all sampling times were measured in the adipose tissue, indicating that fat is a target tissue for MXD. MXD concentrations in all of the tissues analyzed were below the accepted maximum limit of residue at 21 days post-treatment.
    Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry 01/2001; 48(12):6011-5. · 2.82 Impact Factor
  • Article: Ivermectin disposition kinetics after subcutaneous and intramuscular administration of an oil-based formulation to cattle.
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    ABSTRACT: Slight differences in formulation may change the plasma kinetics and ecto-endoparasiticide activity of endectocide compounds. This work reports on the disposition kinetics and plasma availability of ivermectin (IVM) after subcutaneous (SC) and intramuscular (IM) administration as an oil-based formulation to cattle. Parasite-free Aberdeen Angus calves (n = 24; 240-280 kg) were divided into three groups (n = 8) and treated (200 microg/kg) with either an IVM oil-based pharmaceutical preparation (IVM-TEST formulation) (Bayer Argentina S.A.) given by subcutaneous (Group A) and intramuscular (Group B) injections or the IVM-CONTROL (non-aqueous formulation) (Ivomec, MSD Agvet) subcutaneously administered (Group C). Blood samples were taken over 35 days post-treatment and the recovered plasma was extracted and analyzed by HPLC using fluorescence detection. IVM was detected in plasma between 12 h and 35 days post-administration of IVM-TEST (SC and IM injections) and IVM-CONTROL formulations. Prolonged IVM absorption half-life (p < 0.05) and delayed peak plasma concentration (p < 0.001) were obtained following the SC administration of the IVM-TEST compared to the IVM-CONTROL formulation. No differences in total plasma availability were observed among treatments. However, the plasma residence time and elimination half-life of IVM were significantly longer after injection of the IVM-TEST formulation. IVM plasma concentrations were above 0.5 ng/ml for 20.6 (CONTROL) and 27.5 days (IVM-TEST SC), respectively (p < 0.05). The modified kinetic behaviour of IVM obtained after the administration of the novel oil-based formulation examined in this trial, compared to the standard preparation, may positively impact on its strategic use in cattle.
    Veterinary Parasitology 11/1999; 86(3):203-15. · 2.58 Impact Factor
  • Article: Moxidectin in cattle: correlation between plasma and target tissues disposition.
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    ABSTRACT: The time of parasite exposure to active drug concentrations determines the persistence of the antiparasitic activity of endectocide compounds. This study evaluates the disposition kinetics of moxidectin (MXD) in plasma and in different target tissues following its subcutaneous (s.c.) administration to cattle. Eighteen male, 10-month old Holstein calves weighing 120-140 kg were subcutaneously injected in the shoulder area with a commercially available formulation of MXD (Cydectin 1%, American Cyanamid, Wayne, NJ, USA) at 200 micrograms/kg. Two treated calves were killed at each of the following times post-treatment: 1, 4, 8, 18, 28, 38, 48, 58 and 68 days. Abomasal and small intestine mucosal tissue and fluids, bile, faeces, lung, skin and plasma samples were collected, extracted, derivatized and analysed to determine MXD concentrations by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with fluorescence detection. MXD was extensively distributed to all tissues and fluids analysed, being detected (concentrations > 0.1 ng/g; ng/mL) between 1 and 58 days post-treatment. MXD peak concentrations were attained during the first sampling day. MXD maximum concentration (Cmax) values ranged from 52.9 (intestinal mucosa) up to 149 ng/g (faeces). The mean residence time (MRT) in the different tissues and fluids ranged from 6.8 (abomasal mucosa) up to 11.3 (bile) days. MXD concentrations in abomasal and intestinal mucosal tissue were higher than those detected in plasma; however, there was a high correlation between MXD concentrations observed in plasma and those detected in both gastrointestinal mucosal tissues. MXD concentrations were markedly greater in the mucosa than in its respective digestive fluid (P < 0.01). MXD concentrations in skin were higher than those found in plasma (P < 0.01). Drug concentrations recovered in the dermis were greater than those detected in the hypodermal tissue (P < 0.05). Large concentrations of MXD were excreted in bile and faeces. These findings may contribute to an understanding of the relationship between the kinetic behaviour and the persistence of the antiparasite activity of MXD against different ecto-endoparasites in cattle.
    Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics 09/1999; 22(4):266-73. · 1.18 Impact Factor
  • Article: Comparison of milk residue profiles after oral and subcutaneous administration of benzimidazole anthelmintics to dairy cows
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    ABSTRACT: The current experimental work reports on the comparison of the milk residue profile of the benzimidazole (BZD) anthelmintics after their administration by the oral and subcutaneous (SC) routes to dairy cows. The cows were distributed in four groups and treated as follows—Group 1: oxfendazole (OFZ) by oral route (5 mg kg−1); Group 2: albendazole (ABZ) by oral route (5 mg kg−1); Group 3: albendazole sulphoxide (ABZSO) by SC administration (3 mg kg−1); Group 4: OFZ by SC route (3 mg kg−1). After drug administrations milk samples were collected and frozen at −20 °C until analyzed by liquid chromatography (LC). A complete validation of the analytical methodology was accomplished. Regression curves were linear over the concentrations examined and the correlation coefficients (r) ranged between 0.994 and 0.999. The mean extraction recovery range between 77 and 97%. Residual concentrations of OFZ, fenbendazole sulphone (FBZSO2) and FBZ were recovered in milk after OFZ oral administration. OFZ reached the highest concentration in milk (0.39 ± 0.10 μg ml−1) at 12 h post-treatment, being detected up to 72 h post-treatment. In contrast, FBZ was not detected in cow milk and FBZSO2 was the main analyte recovered from the milk with the maximum milk residues (0.042 ± 0.003 μg ml−1) achieved at after 36 h following the SC injection of OFZ. ABZSO and ABZSO2 were the metabolites recovered in milk following oral (ABZ) and SC (ABZSO) treatments in dairy cows. ABZSO2 was the analyte recovered at the highest residual concentration (0.86 ± 0.33 μg ml−1) at 12 h after oral administration of ABZ. However, ABZSO was the main compound measured in cow milk following its SC injection (0.18 μg ml−1) at 12 h post-treatment. Overall, the total milk residue levels (sum of parent drug and metabolites) were higher after oral compared to parenteral treatments in dairy cows. These results reported here are discussed according to the acceptable maximum residue limits (MRLs) established for BZD compounds in cow milk.
    Analytica Chimica Acta.
  • Article: Ricobendazole kinetics and availability following subcutaneous administration of a novel injectable formulation to calves
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    ABSTRACT: The plasma and abomasal fluid disposition kinetics of ricobendazole (RBZ) after subcutaneous (SC) administration of novel injectable formulation to calves, and the comparative plasma availability after SC injection of RBZ and that obtained after oral treatment with albendazole (ABZ), were characterised. Six parasite-free Holstein calves received RBZ (solution 150 mg ml−1) by SC injection at 3·75 mg kg−1 (Experiment 1). Experiment 2 was conducted in two experimental phase; in phase I, five calves (Group A) received RBZ by SC injection and five animals (Group B) were orally treated with ABZ (suspension 100 mg ml−1, at 5 mg kg−1. Drug treatments were reversed for each group in phase II and given at 7·5 mg kg−1. Samples of abomasal fluid via cannula) and jugular blood were collected over 72 hours post-treatment and analysed by HPLC. RBZ and it, sulphone metabolite were detected in plasma following its Sc administration. RBZ was rapidly absorbed, reaching the plasma Cmax at 4·5 hours post-dosing. The sulphone metabolite followed a similar kinetic pattern. Both molecules were rapidly and extensively distributed into the abomasum, being detected in abomasal fluid between 30 minutes and 36 hours post-administration. An extensive plasma/abomasum exchange process, with ionic-trapping in the abomasum. accounted for the higher AUC value (>200 per cent obtained for RBZ in abomasum compared with plasma. The SC treatment with RBZ formulated as a Solution resulted in a significantly greater plasma availability (measured as ABZ sulphoxide) than the oral treatment with ABZ (suspension) given at the same dose rates.
    Research in Veterinary Science.
  • Article: Failure of ivermectin and eprinomectin to control Amblyomma parvum in goats: Characterization of acaricidal activity and drug pharmacokinetic disposition
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    ABSTRACT: The therapeutic efficacies of ivermectin (subcutaneous injection) and eprinomectin (topical treatment) given at two different dosage levels to goats naturally infested with Amblyomma parvum were assessed. Treatments included subcutaneous injection of ivermectin at 0.2 and 0.4 mg/kg and extra-label pour-on administration of eprinomectin at 0.5 and 1 mg/kg b.w. Ivermectin and eprinomectin failed to control Amblyomma parvum on goats. Treatment with ivermectin resulted in a low number of engorged female ticks in relation to untreated control goats and, at the highest dose rate (0.4 mg/kg), the female engorgement weights were significantly lower and the pre-oviposition period significantly longer than those observed in ticks recovered from untreated control goats. The tick efficacy assessment was complemented in a separate group of tick-free goats with a pharmacokinetic characterization of eprinomectin (topically administered at 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 mg/kg) and ivermectin (subcutaneous treatment given at (0.2 and 0.4 mg/kg) in goats. Heparinized blood samples were taken between 0 and 21 days post-treatment. Higher and more persistent drug plasma concentrations were recovered after the subcutaneous treatment with ivermectin compared to those obtained for eprinomectin topically administered. The understanding of the relationship among the pattern of drug absorption, the kinetic disposition and the resultant clinical efficacy is relevant to improve the poor performance observed for ivermectin and eprinomectin against A. parvum on goats.
    Veterinary Parasitology.
  • Article: Ricobendazole kinetics and availability following subcutaneous administration of a novel injectable formulation to calves.
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    ABSTRACT: The plasma and abomasal fluid disposition kinetics of ricobendazole (RBZ) after subcutaneous (s.c.) administration of a novel injectable formulation to calves, and the comparative plasma availability after s.c. injection of RBZ and that obtained after oral treatment with albendazole (ABZ), were characterised. Six parasite-free Holstein calves received RBZ (solution 150 mg ml(-1)) by s.c. injection at 3.75 mg kg(-1) (Experiment 1). Experiment 2 was conducted in two experimental phases; in phase I, five calves (Group A) received RBZ by s.c. injection and five animals (Group B) were orally treated with ABZ (suspension 100 mg ml(-1)), at 5 mg kg(-1). Drug treatments were reversed for each group in phase II and given at 7.5 mg kg(-1). Samples of abomasal fluid (via cannula) and jugular blood were collected over 72 hours post-treatment and analysed by HPLC. RBZ and its sulphone metabolite were detected in plasma following its s.c. administration. RBZ was rapidly absorbed, reaching the plasma Cmax at 4.5 hours post-dosing. The sulphone metabolite followed a similar kinetic pattern. Both molecules were rapidly and extensively distributed into the abomasum, being detected in abomasal fluid between 30 minutes and 36 hours post-administration. An extensive plasma/abomasum exchange process, with ionic-trapping in the abomasum, accounted for the higher AUC value (>200 per cent) obtained for RBZ in abomasum compared with plasma. The s.c. treatment with RBZ formulated as a solution resulted in a significantly greater plasma availability (measured as ABZ sulphoxide) than the oral treatment with ABZ (suspension) given at the same dose rates.
    Research in Veterinary Science 65(1):5-10. · 1.65 Impact Factor
  • Article: Cattle nematodes resistant to macrocyclic lactones: Comparative effects of P-glycoprotein modulation on the efficacy and disposition kinetics of ivermectin and moxidectin
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    ABSTRACT: The role of the drug efflux pump, known as P-glycoprotein, in the pharmacokinetic disposition (host) and resistance mechanisms (target parasites) of the macrocyclic lactone (ML) antiparasitic compounds has been demonstrated. To achieve a deeper comprehension on the relationship between their pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic behaviors, the aim of the current work was to assess the comparative effect of loperamide, a well-established P-glycoprotein modulator, on the ivermectin and moxidectin disposition kinetics and efficacy against resistant nematodes in cattle. Fifty (50) Aberdeen Angus male calves were divided into five (5) experimental groups. Group A remained as an untreated control. Animals in the other experimental Groups received ivermectin (Group B) and moxidectin (Group C) (200 μg/kg, subcutaneuosly) given alone or co-administered with loperamide (0.4 mg/kg, three times every 24 h) (Groups D and E). Blood samples were collected over 30 days post-treatment and drug plasma concentrations were measured by HPLC with fluorescence detection. Estimation of the anthelmintic efficacy for the different drug treatments was performed by the faecal egg count reduction test (FECRT). Nematode larvae were identified by pooled faecal cultures for each experimental group. Cooperia spp. and Ostertagia spp. were the largely predominant nematode larvae in pre-treatment cultures. A low nematodicidal efficacy (measured by the FECRT) was observed for both ivermectin (23%) and moxidectin (69%) in cattle, which agrees with a high degree of resistance to both molecules. Cooperia spp. was the most abundant nematode species recovered after the different drug treatments. The egg output reduction values increased from 23% to 50% (ivermectin) and from 69% to 87% (moxidectin) following their co-administration with loperamide. Enhanced systemic concentrations and an altered disposition of both ML in cattle, which correlates with a tendency to increased anthelmintic efficacy, were observed in the presence of loperamide. Overall, the in vivo modulation of P-glycoprotein activity modified the kinetic behavior and improved the efficacy of the ML against resistant nematodes in cattle. The work provides further evidence on the high degree of resistance to ML in cattle nematodes and, shows for the first time under field conditions, that modulation of P-glycoprotein may be a valid pharmacological approach to improve the activity and extend the lifespan of these antiparasitic molecules.
    Experimental Parasitology.
  • Article: Doramectin concentration profiles in the gastrointestinal tract of topically-treated calves: Influence of animal licking restriction
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    ABSTRACT: Endectocide compounds are extensively used for broad-spectrum parasite control and their topical administration to cattle is widespread in clinical practice. Pour-on formulations of moxidectin, ivermectin, eprinomectin and doramectin (DRM) are marketed internationally for use in cattle. However, variability in antiparasitic efficacy and pharmacokinetic profiles has been observed. Although the tissue distribution pattern for different endectocide molecules given subcutaneously to cattle has been described, only limited information on drug concentration profiles in tissues of parasite location after topical treatment is available. Understanding the plasma and target tissue kinetics for topically-administered endectocide compounds is relevant to optimise their therapeutic potential. The current work was designed to measure the plasma and gastrointestinal (GI) concentration profiles of DRM following its pour-on administration to calves. The influence of natural licking behaviour of cattle on DRM concentration in mucosal tissue and luminal content of different GI sections was evaluated. The trial was conducted in two experimental phases. In Phase I, the DRM plasma kinetics was comparatively characterised in free-licking and in 2-day licking-restricted (non-licking) calves. The pattern of distribution of topical DRM to mucosal and luminal contents from abomasum, duodenum, ileum, caecum and spiral colon was assessed in free-licking and non-licking calves restricted over 10 days post-administration (Phase II). The prevention of licking caused marked changes on the plasma and GI kinetics of DRM administered pour-on. In 2-day licking restricted calves, DRM systemic availability was significantly lower (29%) than in free licking animals during the first 9 days post-treatment. Following a 10-day long licking restriction period, DRM concentrations profiles in both mucosal tissue and luminal contents of the GI tract were markedly higher in animals allowed to lick freely. This enhancement in drug concentrations in free-licking compared to non-licking calves, was particularly pronounced in the abomasal (38-fold higher) and duodenal (six-fold higher) luminal content. As shown earlier for ivermectin, licking behaviour may facilitate the oral ingestion of topically-administered DRM in cattle. This would be consistent with the marked lower drug concentration profiles measured in the bloodstream and GI tract of the animals prevented from licking. The work reported here provides relevant information on the pattern of DRM distribution to the GI tract after pour-on treatment, and contributes to understand the variability observed in the antiparasitic persistence of topically-administered endectocides in cattle. The implications of natural licking in topical treatments are required to be seriously assessed to achieve optimal parasite control and to design parasitological and pharmacological studies within the drug approval process.
    Veterinary Parasitology.