By Victoria G. Myers
Progressive Farmer Senior Editor
PHOENIX, Ariz. (DTN) -- Cattle suffering from pain due to foot rot, or a fever associated with bovine respiratory disease (BRD), can now be treated with a pour-on application of Banamine Transdermal.
The product, manufactured by Merck Animal Health, was introduced to cattle producers at this year's National Cattlemen's Beef Association convention in Phoenix, Arizona. Merck's Scott Bormann noted this is the "first and only non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory cattle product available as a pour-on."
Bormann, vice president, North America commercial operations for Merck Animal Health, explained the product will require a prescription from a veterinarian. However, producers can make the application on their own.
In the past, Banamine required intravenous administration by a veterinarian.
One dose of Banamine Transdermal is absorbed into the animal's bloodstream within minutes. It is poured, in a measured amount, along the animal's back. It does not have to be applied to the area of inflammation.
Field studies reported animals diagnosed with BRD and treated with the product had at least a 2-degree Fahrenheit drop in temperature within six hours of treatment. With regard to pain from foot rot, there was a 93.3% to 100% improvement in lameness scores on treated cattle.
"Pain mitigation in animals is a growing goal across the food chain. Fever and pain can cause cattle to stop eating and drinking. Banamine Transdermal can help cattle feel better for a healthy and productive outcome," explained Scott Nordstrom, veterinarian and associate director, scientific marketing affairs, Merck Animal Health.
Banamine Transdermal meets best-management practices outlined by the cattle industry's Beef Quality Assurance Program. The pour-on application eliminates injection-site lesions in the carcass, and reduces risks of residue.
Product packaging is pre-calibrated to ensure the correct dose. It is recommended animals be protected from rain six hours after application. There is an eight-day withdrawal period. Unused product can be stored at room temperature.
Victoria G. Myers can be reached at vicki.myers@dtn.com
(ES/AG)
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