Intralipid emulsion therapy for ivermectin toxicity in a dog

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Toxicology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Ivermectin overdose can cause severe neurological and physiological signs in dogs.
• Intravenous lipid emulsion (ILE) is a potential antidote for lipophilic drug toxicities.

Observation:

• A 3-year-old, 2.5 kg Shih Tzu presented with ataxia, tremors, incoordination, absent reflexes, bradycardia, and salivation after ingesting ivermectin.
• Standard veterinary care was initiated, but neurological signs persisted.

Findings:

• Intravenous lipid emulsion (ILE) was administered as a bolus followed by a continuous rate infusion.
• Neurological symptoms began resolving 2.5 hours post-ILE administration.
• Complete recovery was observed within 24 hours.

Implications:

• This case demonstrates the efficacy of ILE in reversing severe ivermectin toxicity in a canine patient.
• Veterinary professionals should consider ILE as a therapeutic option for lipophilic drug overdoses.
• Further education on ILE's diverse clinical applications is recommended.