"Medicine" - what is it, definition of the term
The field dedicated to preventing, diagnosing, and treating disease employs pharmacological agents, biologics, and therapeutic procedures to counteract pathological conditions, including infections and infestations caused by ectoparasites such as ticks, insects, lice, and fleas.
Detailed information
Pharmaceutical science provides agents that eradicate or control arthropod parasites affecting humans and domestic animals. Effective management requires accurate identification of the target organism, knowledge of the agent’s mode of action, and adherence to dosing guidelines to minimize toxicity.
For ticks, systemic acaricides such as ivermectin and afoxolaner are administered orally to companion animals, achieving blood concentrations that kill attached parasites. Topical formulations containing permethrin or flumethrin create a repellent barrier on the skin. Treatment protocols recommend a repeat dose after 30 days to interrupt the life cycle, as eggs may survive initial exposure. Monitoring for neurotoxic signs, especially in breeds sensitive to ivermectin, is essential.
Insect infestations of general “bugs” are addressed with broad‑spectrum insecticides. Pyrethroid sprays (e.g., cypermethrin) provide rapid knockdown on contact, while organophosphate preparations (e.g., dichlorvos) inhibit cholinesterase activity. For indoor environments, residual dusts containing diatomaceous earth reduce re‑infestation by desiccating exoskeletons. Protective equipment for applicators prevents dermal absorption.
Pediculosis, caused by lice, is treated primarily with topical pediculicides. Dimethicone lotion penetrates the cuticle, causing physical desiccation without neurotoxic effects. Traditional agents such as permethrin 1 % cream rinse remain effective when applied for 10 minutes per manufacturer instructions. Oral ivermectin, dosed at 200 µg/kg, offers an alternative for resistant cases, with contraindications noted for pregnant patients.
Flea control combines adulticide and larvicide strategies. Spot‑on products containing imidacloprid or selamectin deliver systemic activity that kills feeding fleas within hours. Environmental sprays featuring methoprene or pyriproxyfen inhibit development of eggs and larvae, breaking the reproductive cycle. Routine monthly application maintains efficacy, while thorough vacuuming removes residual stages from the environment.
Common drug classes and their primary actions
- Acaricides – target tick and mite nervous systems (e.g., ivermectin, afoxolaner)
- Insecticides – disrupt insect nerve transmission (e.g., permethrin, cypermethrin)
- Pediculicides – physically degrade louse exoskeletons (e.g., dimethicone)
- Larvicides – prevent metamorphosis of flea immature stages (e.g., pyriproxyfen)
Selection of an agent must consider species specificity, resistance patterns, and safety profiles to achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes.