Milbemycin oxime is produced by Streptomyces hygroscopicus aureolacrimosus.

It opens glutamate sensitive chloride channels in neurons and myocytes of invertebrates, leading to hyperpolarisation of these cells and blocking of signal transfer.

[citation needed] The substance is often combined with other parasiticides to achieve a broader spectrum of action.

Such products include:[citation needed] The drug has been used in marine reef aquaria to control parasitic Tegastidae copepod infestations on captive hard coral colonies.

[5][6] The drug is usually tolerated well, but such side effects may occur such as vomiting, phlegming, and glassy eyes.