The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued its first Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for an animal drug, authorizing the use of Credelio (lotilaner) chewable tablets to treat New World screwworm (NWS) infestations in dogs and puppies. The agency concluded that “based on the scientific evidence available, it is reasonable to believe that Credelio may be effective in treating New World screwworm (NWS) infestations in dogs and puppies and the known and potential benefits of the product outweigh its known and potential risks.” “The FDA acted swiftly to make a screwworm treatment available for dogs in the U.S.,” says FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, MD, MPH “When it comes to emerging animal health threats, we need to be proactive, not reactive.” “The FDA is using EUAs to bolster our nation’s preparedness for NWS,” says Timothy Schell, PhD, director of the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine. While most U.S. dogs reportedly face low NWS risk, animals near the U.S.–Mexico border or those that have traveled to affected countries remain vulnerable. The authorization follows the August 2025 declaration by the Secretary of Health and Human Services identifying NWS as a potential public health emergency. Credelio, made by Elanco Animal Health, was originally approved in 2018 for flea and tick control. “We appreciate the FDA’s review of the scientific data demonstrating that Credelio may be an effective treatment against New World screwworm in dogs,” says Dr. Ellen de Brabander, executive vice President of Innovation and Regulatory Affairs at Elanco. “This first ever Emergency Use Authorization for NWS in dogs gives veterinarians and pet owners peace of mind, knowing there’s an authorized treatment option available as soon as they may need it.”
