Ask the Vet

By Dr. Ken McMillan
DTN Contributing Editor

Question:

I've read that some people believe generic pour-ons aren't as effective as name-brand dewormers. Do you have any idea why that would be the case? The major ingredient appears to be the same, so I wouldn't expect much difference in them.

Answer:

Generic toilet paper contains the same ingredients as the name brands, but some generic TP is only good for light sanding and not much else.

Drugs are obviously much more regulated than toilet paper, but the idea is the same. There can be many differences in how a drug is manufactured, the quality controls used and even the inert ingredients. As a result, there can be quite a difference in how some generics perform.

I use, and am very comfortable with, many drug generics. They can save my clients a lot of money, and that's a good thing. But there are some generics, such as toilet paper, that I avoid.

If you do choose to use a generic dewormer, do not look for the cheapest one on the shelf. Rather, find one made by a company you know will stand behind its product with a reputation for quality.

(SK)

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