health

FDA Clears Emergency Use of Drug to Fight Screwworm Infections in Pets

June 12, 2026 / 10:42 AM EDT / CBS News

FDA Clears Emergency Use of Drug to Fight Screwworm Infections in Pets

TL;DR

  • FDA grants emergency use authorization for nitenpyram to treat New World screwworm in dogs and cats.
  • Nitenpyram is the first generic animal drug approved for this purpose.
  • The medication is suitable for dogs and cats weighing at least two pounds and aged at least four weeks.
  • Nitenpyram was previously approved for flea treatment under the brand name Capstar.
  • Studies showed nitenpyram expelled most maggots, with remaining larvae dying.
  • New World screwworm, previously thought eradicated in the U.S., has reappeared in Texas cattle and a New Mexico dog.
  • The drug kills larvae within hours, but a second dose is recommended six hours later.
  • Nitenpyram's effects are short-acting and do not prevent new infestations.