The effect of medication with metichlorpindol and methylbenzoquate on the development of antibodies as measured by the fluorescent antibody (IFA)_test against Eimeria tenella and Eimeria maxima

The development of antibodies as measured by the indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA)_ test was studied in groups of birds infected with Eimeria tenella or E. maxima and fed diets containing methylzoquate (MBQ) and/or meticlorpindol (MCP). The drugs suppressed both the E. tenella and E. maxima infections, the extent depending on the concentrations in the feed. The IFA test titres in both the E. tenella and E. maxima infections were related to the oocyst production. Effective suppression of the infection resulted in on or minimal IFA response. Since both drugs used inhibit the sporozoites, it is concluded that development of the parasite is necessary to stimulate the host to produce circulating fluorescent antibodies.