Currently, there are no non-chemical dewormers (including herbs and diatomaceous earth) which have been shown to be effective at controlling worms in livestock.

There are three families of drugs which are used to treat internal parasites in goats:

1.Benzimidazoles-Fenbendazole, Albendazole, Oxybendazole, Thiabendazole

2.Nicotinics – Levamisole, Pyrantel, Moratel

3.MacrolyticLactones-“avermectins” Ivermectin, Doramectin, Moxidectin

The Benzimidazoles (Safeguard®, Panacur®, Valbazen®, Synanthic®), also called “white dewormers” are broad spectrum and safe to use. They are effective against tapeworms. Albendazole is effective against adult liver flukes, but should not be used in pregnant or lactating females.

Levamisole (Tramisol®), also called a “clear dewormer” is broad spectrum and effective against arrested larvae. However, it has a narrower margin of safety, especially in the injectable form. Pyrantel (Strongid®) is only effective against adult worms. Moratel (Rumatel®) is an oral feed additive and is only effective against adult worms.

Avermectins (Ivomec®, Dectomax®, Quest®, Cydectin®) are the newest family of drugs. They are broad spectrum and have a wide margin of safety. They are also effective against external (biting) parasites, including nose bots.

Ivomec, Valbazen, and Tramisol drench are approved for use in sheep. Only Fenbendazole and Rumatel are FDA-approved for use in goats.

Use of any product which is inconsistent with its label constitutes “extra-label” drug use and requires a veterinary prescription and valid veterinarian-patient-client relationship.
Prolonged withdrawals should be used when administering drugs extra-label