SAFETY OF OXFENDAZOLE IN CATTLE

Suspensions of oxfendazole, methyl [5-(Phenylsulfinyl)-1H-benzimidazol e-2-yl] carbamate, a broad spectrum anthelmintic of the benzimidazole class of compounds, were administered to normal young beef cattle (est imated age 5-9 months) typical of those entering anthelmintic programs in feedlots. The purposes of the studies were to characterize the acu te toxicity profile and to demonstrate the safety of oxfendazole in th is class of cattle. Suspensions of oxfendazole were also administered to cycling first calf beef heifers and to normal, sexually mature beef bulls to demonstrate the safety of oxfendazole in cattle of breeding age. The studies reported herein comprised the target animal safety pr ogram for registration of oxfendazole in cattle in the United States. The intended clinical dose of oxfendazole for cattle is 4.5 mg/kg.