FDA authorizes Zoetis drug to treat screwworm in dogs

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an emergency use authorization for Zoetis’ flea and tick medication, Simparica TRIO, to treat New World screwworm (NWS) infestations in dogs and puppies.

NWS is a flesh-eating livestock pest. While most dogs in the U.S. are currently at low risk due to geographic location, the FDA noted that infestations have been detected in specific areas of Texas and New Mexico. Owners of dogs living in or traveling to affected areas, or to certain countries south of the U.S. border, are advised to monitor for signs such as visible maggots or foul odors in wounds.

The FDA issues these authorizations during public health threats when no alternative treatments are available. This follows a similar authorization granted to Elanco Animal Health last year for its drug, Credelio.