FDA Grants First EUA for Ivermectin Injection to Combat New World Screwworm in Cattle
Event summary
- FDA issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for IVOMEC® (ivermectin) 1% Injection to prevent New World screwworm (NWS) infestations in cattle on February 5, 2026.
- This is the first EUA for an over-the-counter drug for NWS prevention in cattle, targeting critical intervention points like birth, castration, or wound appearance.
- NWS cases have been confirmed in northern Mexico, including the border state of Tamaulipas, adjacent to Texas, heightening concerns about potential U.S. incursion.
- The EUA is valid for the duration of the declaration under section 564(b)(1) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, unless terminated or revoked sooner.
The big picture
The EUA for IVOMEC® (ivermectin) 1% Injection underscores the growing concern over New World screwworm infestations, driven by recent cases in northern Mexico. This regulatory action reflects a proactive stance by the FDA and USDA to safeguard U.S. livestock, highlighting the strategic importance of preventive tools in animal health. The move also signals a broader trend of regulatory flexibility in response to emerging animal health threats, particularly those with cross-border implications.
What we're watching
- Regulatory Headwinds
- The pace at which the FDA and USDA will monitor and potentially extend or revoke the EUA, given the evolving threat of NWS incursion.
- Market Dynamics
- How cattle producers and veterinarians will adopt and utilize IVOMEC® (ivermectin) 1% Injection, especially in high-risk regions near the U.S.-Mexico border.
- Execution Risk
- Whether Boehringer Ingelheim can sustain producer education and readiness efforts to mitigate the impact of potential NWS outbreaks.
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