Epsiprantel
Also known as: Cestex
- **No Fasting Required**: Fasting is not required nor is it recommended before dosing. You can give this medication with or without food. - **Invisible Results**: Because the medication damages the tapeworm and causes it to be partially or completely digested by your pet's body, you likely **will not see dead worms or worm fragments** in the stool after treatment. - **Prevent Reinfection**: A single dose is usually effective. However, since the most common tapeworm (*Dipylidium caninum*) is transmitted by swallowing infected fleas, **strict flea control** is essential to prevent your pet from getting tapeworms again.
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
- Cestode infection (Dipylidium caninum, Taenia taeniaeformis)
- Cestode infection (Dipylidium caninum, Taenia pisiformis)
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Vomiting (rare)
- Diarrhea (rare)
Cautions & contraindications
- Puppies less than 7 weeks of age
- Kittens less than 7 weeks of age
- > **Age Restriction**: The manufacturer states not to use in puppies or kittens less than 7 weeks of age. Safety for use in pregnant or breeding animals has not been definitively determined, though teratogenic effects are highly unlikely due to the drug's extremely poor systemic absorption.
Drug interactions
- Prokinetic agents: Theoretically may reduce the drug's efficacy by decreasing gastrointestinal transit time
- Fast-acting laxatives: Theoretically may reduce the drug's efficacy
Frequently asked questions
What is Epsiprantel used for in pets?
- **No Fasting Required**: Fasting is not required nor is it recommended before dosing. You can give this medication with or without food. - **Invisible Results**: Because the medication damages the tapeworm and causes it to be partially or completely digested by your pet's body, you likely **will not see dead worms or worm fragments** in the stool after treatment. - **Prevent Reinfection**: A single dose is usually effective. However, since the most common tapeworm (*Dipylidium caninum*) is transmitted by swallowing infected fleas, **strict flea control** is essential to prevent your pet from getting tapeworms again.
Is Epsiprantel 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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