Merck introduces first FDA-approved oral treatment for northern fowl mites in backyard chickens

Merck Animal Health has launched EXZOLT, an oral treatment for northern fowl mites in backyard hens, offering a non-injectable solution and the first of its kind approved in the US.

Merck Animal Health has added EXZOLT, its fluralaner oral solution, to the U.S. backyard chicken market for the treatment and control of northern fowl mites in laying hens and replacement birds. The company says the product, already used in commercial poultry production, is intended to give owners a water-based option that avoids injections or handling each bird individually.

Northern fowl mites remain a practical nuisance for small flocks because they can affect comfort, productivity and the home environment. According to Merck and the FDA, EXZOLT is given in two doses through drinking water, seven days apart, and is the first FDA-approved oral product for this indication in poultry. The agency said residues in eggs or edible tissues are not considered a public health concern when the label is followed.

Merck says the treatment begins killing mites within hours and has shown 99.9% effectiveness in studies. It is available by prescription in a 4 mL presentation. The label carries a zero-day egg withdrawal period and an 11-day meat withdrawal period, although Merck’s poultry hub also describes a 14-day meat and offal withdrawal period for certain approved uses in commercial birds.

Image Source: MSD Animal Health