Central Missouri Beef Reproductive Management 

Beef Estrus Synchronization Protocols Update

Extra-label use of approved reproductive drugs for estrus synchronization (ES) is a challenge for veterinarians and producers.  The Drugs currently used in beef cattle ES protocols include the prostaglandin products, GnRH products, MGA and the CIDR.

Prostaglandin products are approved for use in ES protocols in beef cows and beef heifers.  The GnRH products are approved for use of cattle for treatment of ovarian cysts.  While these products are not labeled for ES protocols in beef cattle, the GnRH injectable products are prescription only and can be prescribed for extra-label use in beef cattle ES protocols by a veterinarian.  The CIDR intra vaginal device is approved for ES use in beef cows and beef heifers.  The feed additive MGA is approved for use in ES protocols in beef heifers but not beef cows.

FDA regulations prohibit the extra-label use of feed grade pharmaceuticals and additives in beef cattle.  Since the feeding of MGA to adult beef cows is not an FDA approved label claim it is prohibited by the FDA. 

Click here for updated estrus synchronization protocols.

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