Dichlorophen
Also known as: Dicestal, Various AVM-GSL products
- **Administration:** Give the medication immediately before your pet's main meal of the day. The tablets can be given whole or crushed and mixed into the food. - **What to Expect:** The medication causes the tapeworms to disintegrate inside the gut. You will likely not see any dead worms passed in the stool. - **Vomiting:** If your pet vomits shortly after taking the medication, **do not** give another dose. Contact your veterinarian. - **Restrictions:** Do not use this medication in pets younger than 6 months or weighing less than 1.25 kg.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Control of tapeworm infections (Taenia, Dipylidium)
- Control of tapeworm infections (Taenia, Dipylidium)
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Vomiting
- Salivation (rare)
- Hyperaesthesia (rare)
- Loss of coordination/ataxia (rare)
Cautions & contraindications
- Animals weighing < 1.25 kg
- Animals < 6 months of age
- Repeating treatment within 10 days
- Repeating treatment immediately if vomiting occurs shortly after dosing
- > **Vomiting:** If vomiting occurs shortly after dosing, do not repeat the treatment immediately. > **Age/Weight Restrictions:** Strictly avoid use in puppies and kittens under 6 months of age or weighing less than 1.25 kg. > **Dosing Limits:** Do not administer more than 6 tablets at one time. If a higher dose is required, split the dose and give the remainder 3 hours later (provided no vomiting has occurred).
Frequently asked questions
What is Dichlorophen used for in pets?
- **Administration:** Give the medication immediately before your pet's main meal of the day. The tablets can be given whole or crushed and mixed into the food. - **What to Expect:** The medication causes the tapeworms to disintegrate inside the gut. You will likely not see any dead worms passed in the stool. - **Vomiting:** If your pet vomits shortly after taking the medication, **do not** give another dose. Contact your veterinarian. - **Restrictions:** Do not use this medication in pets younger than 6 months or weighing less than 1.25 kg.
Is Dichlorophen safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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