Pharmacotherapeutic group: Anthelmintic (Class 1-BZ). ATC vet code: QP52AC11.
A broad spectrum multi-purpose anthelmintic for the control of mature and developing immature forms of gastrointestinal roundworms, lungworms, tapeworms and adult liver fluke in cattle and sheep. The product is also ovicidal against fluke and roundworm eggs.
Albendazole belongs to the benzimidazole class of anthelmintics. Benzimidazoles bind to nematode tubulin, a protein necessary for the formation and viability of microtubules. This occurs primarily in absorptive intestinal cells resulting in the absence of microtubules in the intestinal cells of the nematode, with the result that these cells cannot absorb nutrients, thus causing a consequent reduction in glycogen and effective starvation of the parasites. Structural differences have been shown to exist between tubulin from mammalian and helminth sources, resulting in the preferential toxicity of albendazole to the helminth and not to the host. Benzimidazoles have also been shown to inhibit the fumarate reductase system of helminths and impair energy production.
The selenium and cobalt are trace elements of use as nutritional supplements and are not intended to be used therapeutically. Administration of ionophores to lambs have been shown to enhance selenium bioavailability. Concurrent administration of ionophores and Endospec 10% SC may therefore lead to an increased risk of selenium toxicity.