Assessment of trypanocidal drug use for the control of bovine trypanosomiasis in Benin: a cross-sectional study among cattle owners in the northeastern zone

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Background: Trypanocidal drug use is the main method adopted by farmers for the control of bovine trypanosomiasis in Benin. However, the recurring therapeutic failures observed on farms in recent years following the treatment of trypanosomiasis, suggest the emergence of chemoresistance. Aim: This study aimed to assess the use of trypanocidal drugs and livestock farmers\' knowledge of bovine trypanosomiasis in northwestern Benin. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 346 cattle farmers from six municipalities in the region using a semi-structured questionnaire. Farmers were selected using a stratified random sampling approach and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) and inferential statistical tests, including the Chi-square test, Wilcoxon and the Kruskal–Wallis test. Results: Bovine trypanosomiasis was reported as the most common disease by 98% of farmers, followed by foot-and-mouth disease (72%) and dermatosis (64%). More than half of the farmers (58%) self-diagnosed the disease based on clinical signs and treated it themselves (43%). Three main trypanocide families were identified in the region: diminazene aceturate (60%), isometamidium chloride (30%), and quinapyramine (0.3%). Despite not being available through the official distribution chain, Silizen, a drug based on the active ingredient diminazene aceturate, was the most widely used product. Approximately 74% of livestock farmers obtained these drugs from the informal market, engaging in risky practices such as reusing leftover products (47%) and mixing them with antibiotics (20%). Treatment failure was reported by 32% of the respondents. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the prevalence of trypanosomiasis in cattle in northern Benin and highlights the recurrence of self -diagnosis and treatment of sickness animals by farmers, as well as the use of the black market to obtain trypanocides. These practices encourage drug misuse and the risk of resistance. Strengthening pharmaceutical control, training veterinary assistants, and raising awareness among livestock farmers are essential for improving disease management.

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