5 factors affecting the efficiency of anticoccidial medications in poultry production

Control of coccidiosis is one of the greatest challenges in modern poultry production. Although anticoccidial medications are effective tools, several factors can directly impact their efficiency, ranging from resistance issues to management and dosing conditions.

With this in mind, Nuproxa has developed a series of content aimed at guiding industry professionals on best practices and care in the use of these products. In previous articles, we explored the fundamentals and treatment methods for coccidiosis. Check them out:

Coccidiosis in poultry: an ongoing challenge in poultry farming
Guide to the prevention and treatment of coccidiosis in poultry: part 1
Combined and natural strategies to reduce the risk of coccidiosis in poultry

In this blog post, we will address five factors that directly affect the effectiveness of anticoccidial medications.

1. Causes of intoxication by anticoccidial compounds

Improper use or incorrect dosing of these compounds can lead to animal intoxication, affecting their development and performance (Novilla, 1992; Frigg et al., 1983). Causes include the inappropriate selection of medication for the production phase or undesirable interactions with other medications.

2. Use of ionophores and nicarbazin

Ionophore anticoccidials are widely used but require caution, as improper dosing can result in toxicity. (Novilla, 1992). Nicarbazin is widely used and often included in rotation programs with other products to reduce adverse effects (Ryley & Betts, 1973; Mathis & McDougald, 1982).

3. Development of resistance by coccidia

Resistance occurs when a medication is used repeatedly without rotation with other products. (Vertommen & Peek, 1994). This is a common issue in the industry, and the rotation of anticoccidials is recommended to reduce the risk.

4. Loss of sensitivity to the medication

Resistance develops when continuous administration or prolonged exposure to the same anticoccidial makes coccidia less sensitive to the medication (Ruff, 1993). This highlights the importance of the conscious and diversified use of these products.

5. Farm conditions and risks for broilers

Sanitary and management conditions on farms directly affect bird health and the effectiveness of medications (Graat et al., 1996; Henken, 1994). In farms with hygiene issues, the risk of subclinical coccidiosis is high, silently affecting bird performance.

Conclusion

In this context, it is necessary to understand the characteristics of anticoccidial products, their molecules, mechanisms of action, levels of toxicity, the different species of Eimeria, and the correct way to use them, ensuring results without compromising animal performance.

To support this analysis in practice, you can rely on Nuproxa technical support. Through the Gut and Hepatic Health Program (GHP), the team conducts field diagnostics, laboratory analyses, and continuous monitoring, generating data that support more confident decision-making in poultry production.

Based on this information, it is possible to assess intestinal health, adjust nutritional strategies, and improve productive performance with greater predictability.

Contact Nuproxa to learn more: https://nuproxa.ch/en/contact

References:

Novilla, M. N. (1992). The veterinary importance of the toxic syndrome induced by ionophores. Veterinary and Human Toxicology, 34(1), 66–70.

Frigg, M., Broz, J., & Weber, G. (1983). Compatibility studies of ionophore anticoccidials with various antibiotics and chemotherapeutics in broiler chicks. Archiv für Geflügelkunde, 47(5), 213–220.

Ryley, J. F., & Betts, M. J. (1973). Chemotherapy of chicken coccidiosis. Advances in Pharmacology and Chemotherapy, 11, 221–293.

Mathis, G. F., & McDougald, L. R. (1982). Drug responsiveness of field isolates of chicken coccidia. Poultry Science, 61, 38–45.

Vertommen, M. H., & Peek, H. W. (1994). How can we break resistance problems? World Poultry, Special Supplement on Coccidiosis.

Ruff, M. D. (1993). The value of sensitivity testing in avian coccidiosis. Avicultura Profesional, 10(3), 109–116.

Graat, E. A. M. I. (1996). Effects of initial litter contamination level with Eimeria acervulina on population dynamics and production characteristics in broilers. Veterinary Parasitology, 165, 223–232.

Henken, A. M. (1994). Description of a simulation model for the population dynamics of Eimeria acervulina infection in broilers. Parasitology, 108, 503–512.

Williams, R. B. (1999). A compartmentalised model for the estimation of the cost of coccidiosis to the world’s chicken production industry. International Journal for Parasitology, 29, 1209–1229.