Merial begins 2016 LONGRANGE® (eprinomectin) challenge

Merial introduces the 2016 LONGRANGE^® (eprinomectin) Challenge. Though cattle prices are trending downward, experts say 2016 will still offer good profitability for producers. To help maximize those profits and optimize herd health, Merial will help take on some of the production risks this year through the LONGRANGE Challenge.

LONGRANGE is the first extended-release injectable dewormer that provides cattle producers season-long persistent parasite control for up to 150 days in a single dose, depending on the parasite species.¹

To participate in the challenge, producers simply purchase LONGRANGE between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2016, and treat their cows, calves and cows, or stockers this calendar year. If cattle do not gain weight or demonstrate better performance versus a comparison group using any other parasiticide or parasiticide combination*, Merial will compensate the producer with a Merial Brand endectocide of their choice to cover the cost of LONGRANGE used.**

"Merial recognizes that it's difficult to justify input costs if you aren't sure you are getting enough return, but nothing pays off like parasite control, whether in the spring or fall," says Joe Dedrickson, DVM, Ph.D., Merial Veterinary Professional Services. "The goal is for producers to see a financial gain from their parasite control investment. And because we have confidence in this product, we are willing to back it so that if improvements aren't achieved, producers won't risk a profit loss on treatment expenses."

"The gain alone will cover the cost of using LONGRANGE this year," Dedrickson says. "There are a lot of variables that can rob producers of production and profits. But between the proven results of parasite treatment and the promise of the LONGRANGE Challenge, we are certain producers won't lose money on this input."

If producers are not ready to step up to LONGRANGE, they can still take the challenge with EPRINEX® (eprinomectin) or any IVOMEC® (ivermectin) Brand Product.

Iowa State University research results show that parasite control tops the list of the most economically rewarding cow/calf pharmaceutical practices. Not controlling parasites can negatively impact a cattle producer's breakeven by up to $201 per head.²

"Producers can't afford to be on the fence regarding a health practice as important as parasite control," Dedrickson says. "By choosing LONGRANGE, which is backed by a Product Satisfaction Guarantee, producers can help protect both their cattle and pocketbook."

For more information and full LONGRANGE Challenge details, producers should contact their Merial sales representative or visit www.theLONGRANGElook.com.

*As described in the full LONGRANGE Challenge details.
**LONGRANGE is a prescription product and must be shipped to your veterinarian for you to receive.

LONGRANGE IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION:

Do not treat within 48 days of slaughter.

Not for use in female dairy cattle 20 months of age or older, including dry dairy cows, or in veal calves. Post-injection site damage (e.g., granulomas, necrosis) can occur. These reactions have disappeared without treatment.

EPRINEX IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: No meat or milk withdrawal is required when used according to label.

IVOMEC Plus IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: Do not treat cattle within 21 days of slaughter.

IVOMEC 1% IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: Do not treat cattle within 35 days of slaughter or swine within 18 days of slaughter.

IVOMEC Pour-On IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: Do not treat cattle within 48 days of slaughter.

All IVOMEC and EPRINEX products: Do not use in calves intended for veal. Do not use in other animal species not on the label as severe adverse reactions, including fatalities in dogs, may result.

All IVOMEC products: Do not use in female dairy cattle 20 months of age or older or in dry dairy cows.

About Merial
Merial is a world-leading, innovation-driven animal health company, providing a comprehensive range of products to enhance the health and well-being of a wide range of animals. Merial employs 6,100 people and operates in more than 150 countries worldwide with more than €2 billion of sales in 2014.