Mitaban is a brand name parasiticidal drug labeled in the United States for use in dogs with demodectic mange. The active ingredient is amitraz. The mechanism of action for amitraz is may be unknown; however, the most current data available suggest the drug may act on the central nervous system. Fertility impairment studies have not been conducted in canines with Mitaban. It is not known whether it may cause impairment of fertility in dogs. Its vapors contain xylene. It is highly effective in ridding dogs from mites.
Mitaban is usually used as a “dip” for canines. Long-haired dogs will be shaved, bathed, then the Mitaban dip is applied to their skin and coat. This drug can be used either by a licensed veterinarian or at home. However, pregnant or potentially pregnant women and very small children should not be around the drug or the animal while it is still wet with the drug.
Mitaban Liquid Concentrate (amitraz) contents include: 19.9% N’-(2,4-dimethylphenyl)-N-[[2,4-dimethylphenyl) imino] methyl]-N-methyl-methanimidamide (w/w); xylol, propylene oxide, with a blend of exthoxylated polyethers and alkyl benzene sulfonates. Classified as a diamide, amitraz is somewhat yellow. It melts at approximately 86 °C and is only slightly water-soluble.
INDICATIONS FOR MITABAN
Mitaban (amitraz) is prescribed for generalized mange; i.e., Demodex canis, a disease of dogs.
SIDE AND AVERSIVE EFFECTS:
Temporary sedation, lasting no longer than 72 hours usually, occurs in a small minority of dogs treated with this drug. The drug can be toxic if ingested orally.
While federal law apparently mostly restricts this drug to veterinary prescription, a generic form is offered for sale over the internet, evidently not from the US. A Preventic collar for dogs containing Amitraz is sold over the counter, as for example on Amazon.