WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an emergency use authorization for Elanco US Inc.’s CLiK Extra wound spray to prevent New World screwworm infestations in multiple livestock and wildlife species, giving farmers, veterinarians and wildlife managers an additional tool against a parasitic pest that can cause severe tissue damage.
The authorization covers sheep, cattle, goats, swine and camelids, including camels, llamas and alpacas. It also applies to captive and captured wildlife such as deer, elk, American bison, bighorn sheep and Sonoran pronghorn.
CLiK Extra, or dicyclanil topical suspension, may be applied on or around wounds to prevent New World screwworm myiasis associated with injuries, birth and procedures such as dehorning, ear tagging, castration, tail docking and shearing.
The product is applied when a wound appears or is created. If an infestation is already present, or develops after application, the FDA advises contacting a veterinarian about treatment options.
Unlike products designed to kill existing larvae, CLiK Extra acts as an insect growth regulator that disrupts larval development and prevents the parasite from completing its life cycle.
The FDA concluded that available evidence supports a reasonable belief that the product may be effective when used under the emergency authorization and that its known and potential benefits outweigh its known and potential risks.
“Today’s emergency use authorization provides a new tool for preventing the spread of New World screwworm infestations,” Acting FDA Commissioner Kyle Diamantas said.
The agency also extended the authorization to certain wildlife species because untreated animals could contribute to the pest’s spread.
“Authorizing this product for captive and captured wildlife species, including bighorn sheep, Sonoran pronghorn, American bison, and cervids like deer and elk, is about protecting these animals and helping ensure they do not contribute to the spread of NWS in the United States,” Timothy Schell, director of the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine, said.
CLiK Extra is available over the counter for topical use on or around wounds.
The product is not FDA-approved or conditionally approved for any indication. Its use is permitted only under the emergency authorization, which will remain in effect until the FDA revokes it or the Health and Human Services secretary ends the underlying emergency declaration.
Elanco US Inc., based in Indianapolis, sponsors the product.
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