ATC Vet Code: QP 52AE51
Pharmacotherapeutic group
Levamisole combinations
Pharmacodynamic properties
Levacur SC 3% is a drench containing Levamisole Hydrochloride, an anthelmintic agent. Levamisole Hydrochloride is the laevoisomer of tetramisole hydrochloride. It is a broad spectrum anthelmintic with activity against a wide range of gastro-intestinal helminths and lungworms in cattle and sheep.
Levamisole is a ganglion stimulant of the nervous system of nematodes causing neuromuscular paralysis of the parasites. Because it acts on the nervous system it is not ovicidal.
The Selenium and Cobalt in this product are trace elements of use as nutritional supplements.
Pharmacokinetic particulars
Levamisole is a water-soluble compound, which is well absorbed from the oral, subcutaneous, intramuscular and topical routes of administration. Depending on the route of administration, levamisole is absorbed within 30-60 minutes, reaches a peak plasma level in 1-6 hours and is excreted within 24 hours.
Selenium is absorbed in the duodenum, with virtually no absorption from the abomasum or the rumen. About 40 % of selenium is absorbed by cattle. It is distributed by plasma and is stored in labile forms in all body tissues.
Cobalt is incorporated into Vitamin B12 (primarily in the rumen) which is then absorbed, mainly in the lower portion of the small intestine. Only 1 - 3 % of the vitamin produced is absorbed. The absorption of cobalt itself has been estimated at 20 - 95 %.