The protective effect of zinc sulphate in experimental sporidesmin poisoning of sheep

Authors: Towers NR, Embling PP, Payne E, Wright DE, Smith BL
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 25, Issue 5, pp 124-127, May 1977
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Livestock, Production animal, Ruminant, Sheep
Subject Terms: Inflammation, Integument/skin/wool/hair/fur/feather, Disease/defect, Mycotoxicosis, Liver/hepatic disease, Fungal/yeast, Photosensitivity, Toxicology, Treatment/therapy, Trace elements, Minerals/elememts
Article class: Scientific Article

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Abstract: Aqueous solutions of zinc sulphate were administered orally to sheep over 5 days (0.125,0.5 and 2.0 g Zn⁺⁺/sheep/day) to bracket a 3-day period during which sporidesmin also was dosed. The zinc sulphate treatment gave protection from the effects of sporidesmin vvhen compared with control groups dosed sporidesmin alone. Body weight changes were improved and liver damage scores, numbers of animals showing photosensitisation, serum levels of glutamic oxaloacetic acid transaminase and total hiliruhin were lower. The protective effects of zinc sulphate were obtained at levels well above those required for growth and maintenance. Protection increased but at a diminishing rate with increasing dose rate of zinc. Because of the small safety margin which exists between the dose rate of zinc sulphate which will provide adequate protection and that, which will cause toxicity the use of zinc for the control of facial eczema is not recommended.

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