Maduramycin is a monovalent glycoside polyether ionophore antibiotic commonly used in poultry farming to prevent and treat coccidiosis. It is known for its broad-spectrum efficacy, low resistance development, and absence of residue, making it a widely adopted drug in the industry. However, its therapeutic window is very narrow, as the recommended dosage is extremely close to the toxic level. Many farmers and veterinarians lack proper knowledge about this medication, leading to misuse. In some cases, the drug is administered twice when the disease is under control, resulting in poisoning and significant economic losses.
In one reported case, a farmer raised 3,300 two-month-old laying hens in two broiler houses. Some chickens exhibited signs of blood pulling. Following an individual veterinarian's advice, Maduramycin was added to the feed at a concentration of 10 ppm, with 15 tons of the drug mixed into 1.5 tons of feed. Within half a day, nearly half of the flock showed symptoms such as labored breathing, loss of appetite, and mucus accumulation. The owner immediately contacted the Animal Husbandry Bureau in Qing County, Hebei Province, where the condition was diagnosed as Maduramycin poisoning. After implementing various supportive measures, the birds began to show improvement the next day. On the third day, the veterinarian provided glucose and vitamin C, with 1 kg of 99% VC added to 400 kg of feed and 500 kg of water. However, the excess amount—seven times higher than recommended—led to a recurrence of symptoms on the fourth day. The VC was discontinued, and by the seventh day, the flock gradually returned to normal, though 56 chickens had died and the cost of treatment reached over $1,000.
Pathological examination of 10 affected chickens revealed no specific lesions, but there were signs of hepatomegaly with congestion, a swollen and bile-filled gallbladder, splenomegaly with dark purple discoloration, diffuse intestinal hemorrhage—especially in the duodenum—and swollen cecal tonsils. Kidney swelling and bleeding were also observed. Microbiological tests, including Gram staining and culture on MacConkey and nutrient agar, failed to detect any pathogenic bacteria, confirming that the issue was not due to secondary infection.
Based on clinical signs, post-mortem findings, microbiological results, and drug history, the diagnosis was confirmed as Maduramycin poisoning. Immediate action included stopping the contaminated feed, providing ample water, and mixing 5% dextrose and 0.1% vitamin C into the drinking water to support detoxification and immunity. Alternating use of 0.2% kidney detox solution was also advised, along with intramuscular vitamin C injections for severe cases. Feed was supplemented with a disease-resistant amino-vitamin blend, and traditional Chinese medicine such as licorice was used as a detoxifier, with each chicken receiving 1–2 grams of boiled licorice soup daily for three days. Symptoms improved within two days, and full recovery was achieved after one week.
From this incident, several important lessons can be drawn. Maduramycin is effective against coccidia by disrupting the sodium-potassium balance in parasites, but high concentrations can harm host cells. The safe dosage is 5 ppm, and exceeding 6.5 ppm increases the risk of poisoning. Therefore, strict adherence to dosage guidelines is essential, and continuous use should not exceed five days.
Although vitamin C is a beneficial supplement with antioxidant and immune-boosting properties, excessive use can lead to adverse effects. It should never be administered without proper guidance. When using Maduramycin, it is crucial to mix the drug thoroughly with feed. A proper method involves first blending the drug with a small portion of feed, then gradually mixing it with the rest, and stirring repeatedly for seven to eight times to ensure even distribution.
After administering Maduramycin, the feces must not be used as feed for other animals, as it may contain residual toxins and could lead to contamination. Before starting any treatment, it is important to verify whether the correct amount of Maduramycin has already been added to the feed to avoid accidental overdosing. Additionally, when using water-soluble forms of the drug, extra care should be taken during hot weather, as increased water consumption may lead to overexposure if not carefully monitored.
Gummy Sweet Candy,Season Gummy Candy,Sweet And Sour Gummies,Sweet And Sour Gummy Bears
Montreal Shantou Food Co., Ltd , https://www.montrealsnack.com