MSD Animal Health announced on Tuesday the completion of its acquisition of the worldwide rights to Vecoxan, a well-known drug in the prevention and treatment of coccidiosis in calves and lambs.

Vecoxan was previously sold under the Elanco Animal Health brand.

Coccidiosis, commonly recognised as a blood scour in calves and lambs, is a parasite that affects the linings of the intestines and is a common disease in young calves and lambs.

The active ingredient in Vecoxan is diclazuril. Toltrazuril is another active ingredient used in the prevention and treatment of coccidiosis and is found in products such as Bovicox and Tolracol.

A spokesman for MSD Animal Health said the acquisition of Vecoxan will expand the company’s portfolio for the prevention of disease for younger animals.