Anthelmintic resistance: is a solution possible?

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Parasitology
• Animal Science
• Drug Resistance

Background:

• Anthelmintic resistance (AR) is a growing global issue impacting livestock production.
• AR is defined as the reduced efficacy of anthelmintic drugs (AH) against previously susceptible parasites.
• Factors contributing to AR include livestock management practices and the high cost of AH.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the prevalence and impact of anthelmintic resistance in domestic herbivores.
• To highlight the challenges in developing new anthelmintic molecules.
• To explore alternative strategies for sustainable parasite control in ruminants.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on anthelmintic resistance in domestic herbivores.
• Analysis of factors contributing to the development and spread of AR.
• Identification and evaluation of alternative parasite control methods.

Main Results:

• AR prevalence and impact continue to rise worldwide, affecting animal production.
• Limited progress in discovering new anthelmintic molecules since 1981, with increased development costs and timelines.
• Emergence of resistance to newer anthelmintics like monepantel and derquantel.

Conclusions:

• Ruminant parasitism control cannot rely solely on synthetic chemicals due to widespread AR.
• Integrated parasite management strategies incorporating preventive measures are essential for sustainability.
• Nematophagous fungi and plant-derived compounds show promise as alternative anthelmintic approaches, but further research is required.