Phosmet

General Drug Information and Indications

Organophosphate insecticide/acaricide for treatment of external parasites (lice, mites, ticks) in horses and cattle; topical pour-on formulation. Organophosphate insecticide/acaricide (phosmet). Mechanism: irreversibly inhibits acetylcholinesterase in insects and arachnids → accumulation of ACh at nerve synapses → continuous nerve firing → spastic paralysis and death. Topical pour-on/spray for external parasites. Withdrawal time required for food animals. Key information Organophosphate topical antiparasitic. TOXIC — wear impermeable gloves, eye protection. Do not apply to cats. Do not use near water sources. Wash hands thoroughly after use.

How to Give this Medication

Topical dip or pour-on: apply per label instructions. Use in well-ventilated area. Allow animal to dry in ventilated space. Wear PPE (gloves, protective clothing) throughout application. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next application, skip it and resume the normal schedule. Do not apply extra product to compensate.

Side Effects

Organophosphate toxicity with overdose: salivation, lacrimation, GI cramping, bradycardia, bronchospasm. Wear PPE during application. Withdrawal times required.

Precautions

For animals Organophosphate — observe withdrawal times. Atropine antidote if signs of cholinergic toxicosis develop. Observe food animal withdrawal times for milk and meat. For people handling this medication Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Organophosphate insecticide — serious toxicity risk. Wear chemical-resistant gloves and protective clothing. Avoid all skin and eye contact. Work in well-ventilated area. If skin contact: wash immediately. If eye contact: flush 15+ minutes and seek medical attention. Atropine is the antidote. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

This is a veterinary emergency. Organophosphate overdose causes excessive salivation, muscle tremors, seizures, and respiratory failure. Antidote: atropine (administered by veterinary staff). Contact your veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately. Contact your veterinarian, a veterinary emergency clinic, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically directed by a veterinary professional.

Phosmet dosage forms

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
PHOSMET 3.9% / DEXAMETHASONE 0.067% / DMSO 33% TOPICAL SOLUTION3.9%/DEXAMETHASONE 0.067%/DMSO 33%Solution1Compound

Sources

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)