What to use to treat subcutaneous ticks with demodex? - briefly
Oral ivermectin (200 µg/kg once daily for three consecutive days) constitutes the primary systemic treatment for subcutaneous tick infestations complicated by demodex. Topical acaricides, for example permethrin 5 % cream, can be applied to the skin surface as an adjunctive measure.
What to use to treat subcutaneous ticks with demodex? - in detail
Subcutaneous tick infestation combined with demodex overgrowth requires a dual‑targeted approach. Effective control hinges on eliminating both the ectoparasite and the accompanying mite population while minimizing tissue irritation.
Pharmacologic agents with proven efficacy include macrocyclic lactones and synthetic acaricides. Systemic administration of «ivermectin» at 200 µg/kg orally once, repeated after 7 days, achieves rapid tick death and reduces demodex counts. For species intolerant to ivermectin, «milbemycin oxime» at 0.5 mg/kg once daily for three consecutive days provides comparable results. Topical preparations such as «selamectin» (4 % solution) applied to the affected area twice weekly for four weeks act directly on surface mites and penetrate shallow subcutaneous layers. In refractory cases, «moxidectin» (0.1 % topical) applied once and repeated after 14 days offers extended residual activity.
Adjunctive measures support pharmacotherapy. Mechanical extraction of visible ticks using fine forceps reduces pathogen load. Regular grooming with a demodex‑specific shampoo containing benzoyl peroxide or chlorhexidine diminishes secondary bacterial colonisation. Environmental decontamination—washing bedding at ≥60 °C and applying a residual acaricide spray to the living area—prevents reinfestation.
Dosage adjustments are necessary for young, pregnant, or lactating animals. Monitoring for neurotoxicity, especially after ivermectin, includes observation for ataxia, tremors, or hypersalivation. Blood work before and after treatment assists in detecting hepatic or renal compromise.
A structured regimen combining systemic macrocyclic lactones, targeted topical agents, mechanical removal, and environmental control yields the highest probability of complete eradication of subcutaneous ticks and associated demodex mites.