Product Jump-starts Immune System

It isn’t a vaccine, nor an antibiotic, but Bioniche Animal Health USA offers another protective measure for improving the calf’s chances of survival and reducing disease treatment costs. Immunoboost is the first immune stimulant licensed by USDA for treatment of calves. A non-antibiotic, non-hormone, biological product formulated from a non-pathogenic bacteria, Immunoboost is licensed for use in baby calves, aged one to five days.

According to company claims, the product triggers the calf’s own immune system to recognize and react to disease-causing organisms. Tested effective in highly stressed calves, Immunoboost stimulates anti-viral interferon within hours of administration. A 1-milliliter (mL) dose, administered intravenously, has been shown to heighten immune response for a period of a week to 10 days.

While antibiotics only work against bacterial infections, Immunoboost prompts a generalized immune response to all types of infections. The product may be used in conjunction with other therapies, including anti-inflammatory drugs, electrolytes, antibiotics, vaccines and oral antibody products. However conjunctive use of corticosteroids, such as dexamethasone, is not recommended.

Bioniche is conducting research regarding the use of its patented technology for treatment of older calves and additional routes of administration. The studies are designed to evaluate product efficacy following subcutaneous or intramuscular injection, and the value of prophylactic use of immune stimulants just prior to when cattle enter high-stress situations, such as weaning or shipping.

Sold through licensed veterinarians, Immunoboost comes ready to use in 5- and 20-dose vials. The product has zero slaughter withdrawal.

Ask your veterinarian for more information on Immunoboost, or type www.immunoboost.info into your Web browser.