Ectoparasiticides are crucial in managing health and preventing economic losses in livestock and pet care. These parasites are not just a nuisance; they can be vectors for diseases affecting both animals and humans. Several factors, including livestock management practices, climate change, and the rise in zoonotic diseases, drive the necessity for ectoparasiticides.
 
Climate change, particularly global warming, has expanded the geographic presence of many ectoparasites, pushing subtropical and tropical species into temperate zones. This shift necessitates a proactive approach to ectoparasite management, adapting husbandry and management practices to mitigate the risks of these changing environmental conditions. Moreover, the global increase in zoonotic diseases amplifies the importance of ectoparasiticides in safeguarding public health.
 
The market for animal parasiticides has shown robust growth, with projections indicating a jump from US $10 billion in 2022 to an estimated US $19.4 billion by 2032, of which US $12 billion are ectoparasiticides¹. This growth is the result of several factors, such as rising animal health expenditures, an increase in pet ownership, the demand for animal protein, and a heightened awareness of animal diseases. The "One Health" approach recognises the interconnected health of animals, humans, and the environment and further fuels the demand for effective ectoparasiticides.
 
Challenges in ectoparasiticide development and manufacturing
Developing and manufacturing ectoparasiticides presents unique challenges. Regulations impose that ectoparasiticides, especially those for external application, must undergo strict marketing authorisation and production processes. This includes implementing validated cleaning procedures and ensuring the secure storage of ingredients and finished products. The complexity of producing large-volume liquids, essential for ectoparasiticide formulation, demands specialised facilities and equipment, further complicating the manufacturing process.
 
The value of partnering with a CRO/CDMO
Collaborating with a contract research, development and manufacturing organisation (CRO/CDMO) specialising in animal health can be invaluable in navigating these challenges. They can provide the expertise and infrastructure necessary to navigate the complex regulatory landscape, execute necessary research, and ensure a smooth technology transfer and manufacturing processes to bring effective ectoparasiticides to market more efficiently.
 
Collaboration not only accelerates product development but also ensures adherence to stringent quality and safety standards. With the right partner, stakeholders can more effectively address the increasing demand for ectoparasiticides, enhancing the health and wellbeing of both animals and humans. At the same time, they can ensure compliance with regulations designed to prevent undue harm to non-target species, water sources, soil, and overall biodiversity.
 
Argenta’s ectoparasiticides capabilities
Argenta’s R&D experts in Europe, New Zealand and the United States can advise on the feasibility of your idea, and support you with the formulation, regulatory affairs, and pre-clinical and clinical research. Our EMA and FDA GMP-approved sites in Dundee, Scotland, UK, and Auckland, New Zealand are tailored to manufacture large-volume ectoparasiticides.
 
In Auckland, we have separate dedicated equipment (tanks and filling machines) for ectoparasiticides manufacturing. The container size ranges from 2.5L to 60L.
 
In Dundee, there is a designated ectoparasiticides manufacturing suite, and a filling and capping machine with bottle and pouch capabilities. We can handle any bottle volumes up to 10L and can discuss larger volumes on a case-by-case basis.
 
In addition to ectoparasiticides, we also offer capabilities for endoparasiticides in Auckland and Dundee.
 
If you would like to discuss opportunities for product development or contract manufacturing of your product, please get in touch.

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^{1.     GM Insights; Animal Parasiticides Market, April 2023}

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