For nearly 25 years, the antibiotic tilmicosin phosphate, sold under the trade name Micotil, has been helping livestock producers combat bovine respiratory disease (BRD). Manufactured by Elanco, millions of doses have been administered safely by veterinarians and producers alike. 

“Although Micotil is a prescription drug, it is routinely used by producers to protect the health of cattle,” says Grant Dewell, Iowa State University beef Extension veterinarian. 

Yet, accidents do happen. The effects of Micotil on the human heart, including a reduced cardiac contractility and tachycardia (rapid heartbeat), can be severe enough to cause death.

Humans may be exposed through needlestick injuries, skin cuts, puncture wounds, and contact with skin and mucous membranes.

According to the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine, there have been 1,285 reports of accidental injection in humans from April 1, 1992, to April 14, 2016 . Included in that number is Iowa farmer Ryan Handlos. His death on April 2, 2016, is a harsh reminder of how lethal this drug can be to humans. 

According to the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine, there have been 1,285 reports of accidental injection in humans from April 1, 1992, to April 14, 2016

“Micotil is used less today than it was 15 years ago because of other antibiotics that have been approved in the last 10 years that do not have the safety concerns that Micotil does,” says Dewell. “However, there is still a place for Micotil in beef production to assure the health of cattle.”

If you use Micotil, here are 12 tips to keep you and your workers safe and to alert you to what to do in case of an accident.

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