Norbrook Launches First Bioequivalent White Drench Dewormer

Defendazole (fenbendazole) approved by FDA as generic to Safe-Guard

Apr. 8, 2026 at 6:12am

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A photorealistic studio still-life image of a glass bottle filled with a clear liquid, representing the Defendazole (fenbendazole) dewormer product, placed on a clean, monochromatic background and using dramatic lighting to showcase the premium quality and efficacy of the product.Norbrook's new Defendazole (fenbendazole) dewormer offers cattle and goat producers a reliable, cost-effective solution for controlling internal parasites.Lenexa Today

Norbrook has announced the launch of Defendazole (fenbendazole), the first generic white drench dewormer to receive FDA approval. Defendazole is bioequivalent to and delivers the same safety and efficacy as Safe-Guard (fenbendazole) oral suspension, providing a reliable, efficacious and cost-effective solution for treating and controlling multiple species of internal parasites in beef and dairy cattle and goats.

Why it matters

The launch of Defendazole provides U.S. producers and veterinarians with an additional, more affordable option for controlling internal parasites that can negatively impact cattle health, productivity and profitability. As a bioequivalent to the branded Safe-Guard product, Defendazole offers the same proven efficacy at a lower cost.

The details

Defendazole (fenbendazole) treats and controls many of the lungworms, stomach worms and intestinal worms most commonly associated with economic loss in beef and dairy cattle. It is also approved for the treatment and control of adult Haemonchus contortus and Teladorsagia circumcincta in goats. Defendazole is available in both a standard 1 liter container and a convenient 5 liter gravity-fed container, allowing producers to treat more animals per container compared to the Safe-Guard 1 gallon size.

  • Norbrook announced the launch of Defendazole on April 7, 2026.
  • Defendazole is the first generic white drench dewormer to receive FDA approval.

The players

Norbrook

A leading global provider of veterinary pharmaceuticals headquartered in Newry, Northern Ireland, with operations in over 100 countries.

Defendazole (fenbendazole)

Norbrook's new generic white drench dewormer that is bioequivalent to and delivers the same safety and efficacy as Safe-Guard (fenbendazole) oral suspension.

Safe-Guard (fenbendazole)

The branded white drench dewormer product that Defendazole is approved as a generic equivalent to.

Megan Bollin, DVM

Technical Service Veterinarian at Norbrook.

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What they’re saying

“With Defendazole (fenbendazole), you can expect the same parasite control and animal performance advantages as Safe-Guard (fenbendazole) oral suspension. It's a valuable addition to deworming protocols.”

— Megan Bollin, Technical Service Veterinarian, Norbrook

What’s next

Defendazole (fenbendazole) is now available for purchase by U.S. producers and veterinarians where animal health products are sold.

The takeaway

The launch of Defendazole, the first FDA-approved generic equivalent to the branded Safe-Guard dewormer, provides cattle and goat producers with a more affordable option to effectively control internal parasites and maintain herd health and productivity.