Alben for Sheep Lambs & Goats (Albendazole)

Opening a drum of sheep drench (including Alben for Sheep, Lambs & Goats) does not affect its efficacy or the expiry date.  Providing the Alben is stored correctly when not in use (i.e. below 30^oC (Room Temperature) with top secure & never frozen), it will be fine to use as per the best-before (expiry) date listed on the drums label.

Administering the correct dose rate of an anthelmintic drench such as Alben for Sheep, Lambs & Goats is essential for several reasons. (1) Efficacy: Anthelmintic drenches are medications used to treat and control parasitic infections in animals, particularly livestock. The correct dose rate ensures that the medication effectively eliminates or reduces the parasite burden. A lower dose rate may not effectively kill or remove all parasites, leading to treatment failure. On the other hand, using a higher dose rate than recommended can increase the risk of resistance development in parasites. (2) Animal Welfare: Parasitic infections can cause significant harm to animals, leading to poor growth, weight loss, anemia, reduced milk production, and general debilitation. Administering the correct dose rate ensures the parasites are effectively controlled, minimising the impact on animal health and welfare. (3) Resistance Prevention: Parasites can develop resistance to anthelmintic medications if they are exposed to suboptimal doses. Underdosing allows some parasites to survive, potentially passing their resistance genes to future generations. Using the correct dose rate, the anthelmintic can effectively eliminate many parasites, reducing the likelihood of resistance development. (4) Product Economy: Anthelmintic drenches are costly medications, and using the correct dose rate ensures they are used efficiently. Overdosing can lead to unnecessary product waste, increasing the treatment cost. Following the recommended dose rate, the product is used judiciously, providing effective parasite control without excessive expense. (5) Food Safety: Some anthelmintic medications have withholding periods, during which the treated animals should not be slaughtered for consumption. Adhering to the correct dose rate ensures the appropriate withholding period, minimising the risk of residues in animal products intended for human consumption.

As per Alben Broad Spectrum Anthelmintic For Sheep, Lambs & Goats, APVMA registered 'directions for use', which can be found on the product screen under the heading SDS & Technical; Dosage & Administration - Sheep, Lambs, and Goats is 1mL per 5kg bodyweight, roundworms, lungworms and tapeworms (under 15kg 3mL) or 1mL per 4kg bodyweight for adult liver fluke (under 15kg 4mL). A higher dose rate should be used when adult liver fluke infection exists concurrently with roundworm, tapeworm, and lungworm infections. Always read the 'directions for use' carefully before use.

Alben for Sheep Lambs & Goats is administered as required depending on the worm burden of the herd.  Just working on a set drenching schedule is not recommended, and repeat applications of Alben for Sheep Lambs & Goats will be required as the goats are exposed to more worm eggs from the pasture.  A worm test involving faecal egg counts is recommended so you know the worm burden of the herd and if a repeat drench is required.