As of July 2024, marketing authorisation for Kexxtone has been suspended across the UK and EU. Kexxtone, a slow release Monensin bolus, was widely used to reduce ketosis risk by shifting rumen fermentation towards glucose production via propionate. It was especially useful in high risk cows those over or under conditioned, lame, or carrying twins.
The decision to withdraw it came after manufacturing changes led to an increase in regurgitated boluses containing active Monensin. This not only reduced the product’s reliability but also created a risk to dogs exposed to discarded boluses. Coupled with growing pressure to reduce antibiotic use in food producing animals, the product was already under close scrutiny.
Its removal presents an opportunity to re centre the conversation on transition management. As ever, getting the basics right is essential: well managed body condition, stress free environments, and good rumen fill are non negotiable. Without these in place, no additive will deliver results.
In the absence of Kexxtone, protected choline boluses and other nutritional tools are stepping into focus. Methyl donors such as choline, methionine and betaine have strong peer reviewed support for their role in managing fat mobilisation and supporting liver function. Most research is based on daily inclusion through compound feed or pre mixes, but bolus forms are becoming increasingly accessible and relevant.
At CMC, we’re supporting our customers with two robust transition solutions:
Dry Cow MaxMec™ delivers total metabolic support using the proven MecoVit® blend of methionine, choline, betaine and B vitamins. This supports liver detox and energy partitioning, while Zinpro Availa® ECM (chromium) provides organic trace minerals including chromium to aid insulin sensitivity and immune function.
Dry Cow IsoBoost™ targets fibre digestibility through the inclusion of Zinpro IsoFerm® and Zinpro Availa® ECM (chromium) a rumen directed isoacid additive that feeds fibre digesting microbes. This promotes rumen stability and increases post calving intake, especially where forage quality or dry matter intakes are variable.
Both products are designed to be fed for the final 21 days pre calving and are available in either nut or meal format with a complete dry cow mineral pack included.
As always, start with the fundamentals. Tools like mobility scoring and BCS monitoring help identify at risk groups, and once the basics are in place, targeted nutrition can provide real gains.
The loss of Kexxtone is a challenge, but it’s also a chance to promote better practice and broader engagement with transition cow health. We’re here to help you navigate that change.