Indications
Diaverdin is a veterinary medicine used in animals, mainly poultry, and is not for human use. It is combined with a sulphonamide such as Sulphadimethoxine or Sulphaquinoxaline to prevent and treat coccidiosis (a parasitic gut infection that causes bloody diarrhoea and losses in chickens) and some bacterial infections such as fowl cholera and infectious coryza.
How It Works
Diaverdin blocks an enzyme (dihydrofolate reductase) that parasites and bacteria need to make folic acid and multiply. The partner sulphonamide blocks an earlier step in the same pathway. Together the two work much better than either alone, which is called synergy.
Dosage and Administration
Given in drinking water or feed for a set number of days, at the dose shown on the product label or advised by a veterinarian. Prepare fresh medicated water each day, make sure all birds can drink, and complete the full course.
Interactions
- Do not mix with other medicines in the same water unless a veterinarian advises it.
- Feed or water high in para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) or some vitamin supplements may reduce the effect of the sulphonamide partner.
- Avoid giving other sulphonamides or folate-blocking drugs at the same time.
Contraindications
- Not for human use.
- Laying hens producing eggs for human consumption, unless the label allows it.
- Animals with known sensitivity to sulphonamides or diaverdin, or with severe liver or kidney damage.
Side Effects
Usually well tolerated at label doses. Long or high-dose use may reduce feed intake, affect egg production, cause kidney damage or blood problems in birds.
Contact a veterinarian promptly if birds stop drinking, become weaker, or deaths increase during treatment. If a person accidentally swallows the product or develops a skin or breathing reaction after handling it, seek medical help.
Pregnancy and Lactation
This is a veterinary product. Pregnant or breastfeeding people should avoid handling the concentrated powder or wear gloves and a mask. For breeding or lactating animals, follow a veterinarian’s advice.
Precautions and Warnings
- Observe the withdrawal period on the label: meat from treated birds must not be used for food until it has passed.
- Wear gloves and avoid breathing in the dust when mixing.
- Ensure enough clean drinking water to protect the kidneys.
- Use only when needed to limit drug resistance.
Overdose
Overdose in animals may cause reduced growth, kidney damage and bleeding problems. Stop the medicated water and contact a veterinarian.
Therapeutic Class
Veterinary anticoccidial and antibacterial (diaminopyrimidine, used with sulphonamides).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light, sealed after opening, away from food and feed and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.