Ponazuril
General Drug Information and Indications
Anticoccidial triazinetrione for EPM caused by Sarcocystis neurona in horses; coccidiosis in foals and small animals.
Triazinetrione antiprotozoal (ponazuril). Mechanism: targets apicomplexan apicoplast organelle → disrupts folic acid metabolism, DNA replication, and organelle division in Sarcocystis neurona and Eimeria. Active against mature sarcocysts. Approved for EPM treatment in horses (Marquis). Also used for foal coccidiosis.
Key information
See Marquis entry. Antiprotozoal (EPM). 28-day course. Store at room temperature.
How to Give this Medication
Oral paste: administer via dose syringe into the back of the mouth. Once daily for 28 days. Daily administration at the same time is important for consistent drug levels. Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
Administer as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule. Never double up doses to make up for a missed one. Continue the full 28-day course.
Side Effects
Generally very well tolerated at labeled doses in horses. GI: mild, transient loose feces. Behavioral changes (mild lethargy). No significant systemic toxicity documented at therapeutic doses.
Precautions
For animals
Complete full treatment course. Not approved for use in food-producing animals. Use with caution in pregnant animals. (limited safety data in pregnant mares — use cautiously).
For people handling this medication
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. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Antiprotozoal — Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. after handling paste. Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. Ponazuril overdose is generally mild — GI signs most likely. Contact vet for guidance.
Ponazuril dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PONAZURIL 150 MG/ML ORAL SUSPENSION | 150 MG/ML | Oral Suspension | 1 | Compound |
| PONAZURIL 2.7 GM POWDER SCOOP - PEPPERMINT | 2.7 GM | Powder | 1 | Compound |
| PONAZURIL 25 MG/ML ORAL SUSPENSION | 25 MG/ML | Oral Suspension | 1 | Compound |
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)