Indications
Choline Chloride is a feed additive used in animals, mainly poultry (broilers, layers and breeders), cattle, goats, fish and other livestock. It supplies choline, an essential nutrient, to support normal growth, feed efficiency, egg production and liver health. It helps prevent choline deficiency, which in poultry can cause poor growth, fatty liver, and leg problems such as perosis (slipped tendon). It is usually supplied in vitamin and mineral premixes. It is a veterinary product and is not for human use.
How It Works
Choline is a building block of cell membranes and of acetylcholine, a chemical messenger in the nervous system. It also helps the liver move fat out to the rest of the body, which prevents fat from building up in the liver, and it acts as a source of methyl groups that the body uses in many processes, sparing the amino acid Methionine.
Dosage and Administration
Mix into feed or give in drinking water at the rate stated on the product label or as advised by a veterinarian or animal nutritionist. The amount depends on the species, age, stage of production and the choline already present in the feed. Mix thoroughly so every animal receives an even amount. Do not exceed the recommended rate.
Interactions
Choline Chloride is strongly attracted to moisture and can reduce the stability of some vitamins, especially vitamins A, K and some B vitamins, when stored together in concentrated premixes for long periods. Premixes are usually prepared to limit this. It can be used alongside most other feed additives and medicines; ask your veterinarian if unsure.
Contraindications
Do not use in animals with a known sensitivity to the product. Not for human use or as a human dietary supplement.
Side Effects
At recommended levels, side effects are not expected. Very high amounts may reduce growth or feed intake and, in laying hens, may cause a fishy taint in eggs in some breeds. The concentrated product can irritate the skin and eyes of people handling it.
If animals show sudden illness, weakness or loss of appetite after a feed change, stop the product and contact a veterinarian promptly. If a person splashes concentrate into the eyes or swallows it, rinse with plenty of water and get urgent medical help.
Pregnancy and Lactation
In animals, choline needs increase during egg laying, pregnancy and milk production, and it is commonly included in rations at those stages, at the rates advised by the veterinarian or label. This product is not intended for use by pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Precautions and Warnings
For animal use only. Follow any withdrawal period stated on the label before slaughter or before using eggs or milk for human consumption; choline itself normally has no withdrawal period, but combined premixes may contain other ingredients that do. Wear gloves and avoid breathing dust when handling the concentrate. Keep the bag tightly closed, as it absorbs moisture and can cake.
Overdose
Gross overfeeding may cause poor growth and reduced feed intake. Stop the product, provide normal feed and water, and consult a veterinarian.
Therapeutic Class
Veterinary nutritional feed additive (vitamin-like nutrient).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place in a tightly closed container, away from moisture and direct sunlight, and out of the reach of children and animals.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.