SUCCESSFUL MANAGEMENT OF A RARE CASE OF EMAMECTIN BENZOATE PESTICIDE POISONING IN A DOG

Abstract

Emamectin Benzoate (EB) is a novel pesticide designed for control of insects and mites in crops.  It is a semisynthetic avermectin derivative, belonging to the 16 – membered macrocyclic lactones, has widespread application in agriculture for pest management (1).  Avermectin, from which Emamectin Benzoate is derived, is produced through the fermentation of Streptomyces avermitilis (2).  The safety of avermectin compounds for mammals, including humans, stems from their limited ability to cross the Blood – Brain Barrier (BBB), the absence of glutamate – gated chloride channels in mammals, and the reduced affinity of avermectins for other ligand – gated chloride channels in mammals (3).  Emamectin Benzoate poisoning can present with severe symptoms, surpassing initial expectations, leading to manifestations such as altered consciousness, inhalation pneumonia and gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms (4).  We present a rare case of Emamectin Benzoate toxicity in a puppy and its successful management with Intravenous Lipid Emulsion (ILE).