Manufacturer: Bioniche Animal Health A/Asia
Registered Name Equimune I.V. Mycobacterial Cell Wall Fraction Immunostimulant for Horses
Composition Active. Mycobacterial cell wall fraction 1.0 mg/mL in phosphate buffered saline.
Inactive. Gentamicin 30 microgram/mL (as preservative).
Description Equimune I.V. is a sterile emulsion of purified mycobacterial cell walls which have been extracted by a process which reduces their toxic and allergic effects but retains their immunostimulating activity.
Actions Immunotherapeutic agent. Research has shown that mycobacterial cell wall compounds have immunomodulating activity.
Equimune I.V. activates antigen presenting cells, thereby enhancing the production of the polypeptide cytokine interleukin 1 (IL-1). The IL-1 molecule is one of the body's natural adjuvants and therefore nonspecifically amplifies both cell mediated immunity and humoral antibody responses to antigens. IL-1 intensifies the cell mediated immune response by inducing the proliferation of cytotoxic lymphocytes, augmenting the phagocytic abilities of monocytes and macrophages, and by activating cytokine production. IL-1 also acts directly on the hypothalamus to induce a fever which then enhances the function of T lymphocytes. Proliferation of fibroblasts is induced by IL-1, and thus IL-1 production aids in the wound healing processes. Wound healing processes are further augmented by the increased phagocytic action of macrophages and monocytes. This is important in overcoming alveolar cell damage caused by respiratory disease.
Cell mediated immunity plays a major role in resistance to, and recovery from, viral infection such as influenza virus and herpesvirus infections, including equine herpesvirus. Immunotherapy trials conducted in Canada and elsewhere have indicated a positive response in horses with viral respiratory tract infections. Mycobacterial cell wall preparations have been shown to increase the number of alveolar macrophages in animals and to stimulate the release of IL-1 from these cells. In vitro trials have demonstrated IL-1 production from equine alveolar macrophages and equine peripheral blood monocytes. Mycobacterial Cell Wall Fraction Immunostimulant has been shown to cause the transformation of lymphocytes previously sensitised by viruses.
Indications Aid in the treatment of equine respiratory tract infections of viral origin.
Contraindications Cortisone reduces the production of IL-1; concurrent use of corticosteroids, ACTH and other products known to be immunosuppressive is not recommended.
Precautions Many factors influence the efficacy of immunotherapy in animals. Concurrent disease, stresses due to shipping or weaning, nutritional status, parasitism, environmental conditions and concurrent therapeutic regimens are important considerations.
Horses with a history of hyperimmune disease (vaccine bumps, allergies etc.) should be closely monitored by a veterinarian. In the event of urticaria, oedema, pneumonitis or persistent fever, treat appropriately. Do not repeat treatment with Equimune I.V. in horses that develop these symptoms.
Consult product literature before using.
Safety directions Keep out of reach of children. For use by or under the supervision of a registered veterinary surgeon.
Disposal Dispose of empty container by wrapping with paper and putting in garbage. Discarded needles should immediately be placed in a designated and appropriately labelled sharps container. The container should be of a type to reduce the possibility of injury to handlers during collection and disposal. Incineration is the preferred method of disposal, otherwise sharps should be buried at a suitable site such as an on-farm chemical disposal pit located away from watercourses.
Withholding Periods Meat 28 days.
Adverse Reactions Immune stimulation regimens have the potential to stimulate hypersensitivity reactions which may manifest as persistent fever, with or without pulmonary involvement. Veterinary attention should be sought if these symptoms occur.
In the event of an anaphylactic reaction administer adrenaline.
In field use there have been no reported adverse effects with pregnant mares.
Mild fever, drowsiness and an increased metabolic rate leading to decreased appetite may occur for one to two days following an Equimune I.V. injection. These are normal responses to the release of IL-1. An elevated body temperature enhances the immune function by stimulating lymphocyte activity and thus is not an adverse side effect.
Interactions Other than the contraindications listed, Equimune I.V. is compatible with standard treatment and vaccination regimens.
Dosage and Administration For intravenous use only. Observe aseptic technique when injecting animals.
Administer 1 syringe (1.5 mL) by intravenous injection into the jugular vein. Treatment may be repeated in 1 to 3 weeks. For best results, administer at the first clinical signs of equine respiratory tract infections of viral origin.
It is important to ensure that the emulsion remains thoroughly mixed during injection. Shake vial gently; roll between hands or heat under 65°C water to assist emulsification. Air space has been provided in the vial to facilitate mixing. Inject using a disposable syringe and a 21G x 1.5 inch disposable needle. Use entire contents when first opened. Discard remaining portions.
