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'''Nitroxinil''' is a [[chemical compound]] used as an [[anthelmintic]]. It is specifically used to treat [[Fasciola hepatica]] infections in cattle and sheep. Nitroxinil is a halogenated phenolic compound with a nitro group at the 4-position.
{{Short description|Chemical compound used as an anthelmintic agent}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}


==Chemical Properties==
'''Nitroxinil''' is a chemical compound used primarily as an [[anthelmintic]] agent in veterinary medicine. It is effective against a range of parasitic worms, particularly those affecting livestock such as sheep and cattle. Nitroxinil is known for its efficacy in treating infections caused by liver flukes and certain gastrointestinal nematodes.
Nitroxinil is a yellowish, crystalline powder. It is slightly soluble in water and freely soluble in most organic solvents. The chemical formula for nitroxinil is C7H3Cl2NO3 and its molecular weight is 230.01 g/mol.


==Pharmacology==
==Chemical structure and properties==
Nitroxinil is a [[flukicide]], meaning it is used to kill liver flukes. It works by inhibiting the fluke's ability to metabolize glucose, which is their primary source of energy. This causes the fluke to become immobilized and eventually die.
[[File:Nitroxinil_Structure.svg|thumb|right|Chemical structure of Nitroxinil]]
Nitroxinil is a halogenated phenolic compound. Its chemical structure includes a nitro group and an iodine atom, which contribute to its anthelmintic properties. The presence of these functional groups is crucial for its activity against parasitic organisms.


==Usage==
==Mechanism of action==
Nitroxinil is administered orally to cattle and sheep. The recommended dosage is 10 mg/kg body weight for cattle and 7.5 mg/kg body weight for sheep. It is important to note that nitroxinil should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity to the drug.
Nitroxinil works by uncoupling oxidative phosphorylation in the mitochondria of parasitic worms. This process disrupts the energy metabolism of the parasites, leading to their death. The compound is particularly effective against the [[liver fluke]] ''[[Fasciola hepatica]]'', a common parasite in ruminants.


==Side Effects==
==Uses in veterinary medicine==
Possible side effects of nitroxinil include [[anorexia]], [[diarrhea]], and [[abdominal pain]]. In rare cases, nitroxinil can cause [[jaundice]] and [[hepatotoxicity]].
Nitroxinil is primarily used in the treatment of liver fluke infections in sheep and cattle. It is administered as an injectable solution, which allows for rapid absorption and action. The drug is also effective against certain gastrointestinal nematodes, making it a versatile option in parasite control programs.


==Precautions==
===Administration and dosage===
Nitroxinil should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity to the drug. It should also not be used in animals with severe liver disease. Pregnant and lactating animals should only be treated with nitroxinil under the supervision of a veterinarian.
The typical route of administration for nitroxinil is subcutaneous injection. The dosage varies depending on the species and weight of the animal, as well as the severity of the infection. It is important to follow veterinary guidance to ensure effective treatment and minimize the risk of resistance.


==See Also==
==Safety and side effects==
Nitroxinil is generally well-tolerated in livestock when used at recommended doses. However, overdosing can lead to toxicity, with symptoms such as lethargy, reduced appetite, and in severe cases, neurological signs. It is crucial to adhere to withdrawal periods before slaughter to ensure that meat and milk are free from drug residues.
 
==Environmental impact==
As with many veterinary drugs, the use of nitroxinil can have environmental implications. Residues from treated animals can enter the environment through manure, potentially affecting non-target organisms. Responsible use and proper disposal of waste are important to mitigate these effects.
 
==Related pages==
* [[Anthelmintic]]
* [[Anthelmintic]]
* [[Fasciola hepatica]]
* [[Liver fluke]]
* [[Flukicide]]
* [[Veterinary medicine]]
 
[[Category:Chemical Compounds]]
[[Category:Pharmacology]]
[[Category:Veterinary Medicine]]


{{stub}}
[[Category:Anthelmintics]]
[[Category:Veterinary drugs]]
[[Category:Phenols]]

Latest revision as of 18:54, 23 March 2025

Chemical compound used as an anthelmintic agent



Nitroxinil is a chemical compound used primarily as an anthelmintic agent in veterinary medicine. It is effective against a range of parasitic worms, particularly those affecting livestock such as sheep and cattle. Nitroxinil is known for its efficacy in treating infections caused by liver flukes and certain gastrointestinal nematodes.

Chemical structure and properties[edit]

Chemical structure of Nitroxinil

Nitroxinil is a halogenated phenolic compound. Its chemical structure includes a nitro group and an iodine atom, which contribute to its anthelmintic properties. The presence of these functional groups is crucial for its activity against parasitic organisms.

Mechanism of action[edit]

Nitroxinil works by uncoupling oxidative phosphorylation in the mitochondria of parasitic worms. This process disrupts the energy metabolism of the parasites, leading to their death. The compound is particularly effective against the liver fluke Fasciola hepatica, a common parasite in ruminants.

Uses in veterinary medicine[edit]

Nitroxinil is primarily used in the treatment of liver fluke infections in sheep and cattle. It is administered as an injectable solution, which allows for rapid absorption and action. The drug is also effective against certain gastrointestinal nematodes, making it a versatile option in parasite control programs.

Administration and dosage[edit]

The typical route of administration for nitroxinil is subcutaneous injection. The dosage varies depending on the species and weight of the animal, as well as the severity of the infection. It is important to follow veterinary guidance to ensure effective treatment and minimize the risk of resistance.

Safety and side effects[edit]

Nitroxinil is generally well-tolerated in livestock when used at recommended doses. However, overdosing can lead to toxicity, with symptoms such as lethargy, reduced appetite, and in severe cases, neurological signs. It is crucial to adhere to withdrawal periods before slaughter to ensure that meat and milk are free from drug residues.

Environmental impact[edit]

As with many veterinary drugs, the use of nitroxinil can have environmental implications. Residues from treated animals can enter the environment through manure, potentially affecting non-target organisms. Responsible use and proper disposal of waste are important to mitigate these effects.

Related pages[edit]