Pyrantel
Also known as: Drontal, Cazitel, Cestem, Dolpac, Endoguard, Prazitel, Veloxa, WORMclear
- Can be given with or without food. - Mild side effects such as vomiting or diarrhea may occasionally occur after administration. - Wash hands thoroughly after handling the medication. - Ensure accurate dosing, especially in small puppies or kittens. Do not use in puppies under 2 months of age or weighing less than 1 kg. - You may see dead worms in your pet's stool after treatment.
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 Toxocara canis, Toxascaris leonina, Trichuris vulpis, Uncinaria stenocephala, and Ancylostoma caninum
- Control of susceptible gastrointestinal nematodes
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
Cautions & contraindications
- Puppies < 2 months of age
- Puppies < 1 kg body weight
- Pregnant animals (safety not established)
- Lactating animals (safety not established)
- > **Age and Weight Restrictions:** Do not use in puppies under 2 months of age or weighing less than 1 kg. > **Reproductive Safety:** Safety has not been established in pregnant or lactating animals; use is not recommended. > **Dosing Note:** Pay close attention to the formulation. Some formulations express doses in terms of pyrantel base, while others use pyrantel embonate/pamonate (50 mg pyrantel base is equivalent to 144 mg pyrantel embonate/pamonate).
Drug interactions
- Febantel: Synergistic effect against whipworms
- Oxantel: Synergistic effect against whipworms
- Piperazine: Antagonistic mechanisms of action (piperazine causes flaccid paralysis, pyrantel causes spastic paralysis)
- Levamisole: Similar mechanism of action; concurrent use increases the risk of cholinergic toxicity
- Cholinesterase inhibitors: Increased risk of cholinergic toxicity
Frequently asked questions
What is Pyrantel used for in pets?
- Can be given with or without food. - Mild side effects such as vomiting or diarrhea may occasionally occur after administration. - Wash hands thoroughly after handling the medication. - Ensure accurate dosing, especially in small puppies or kittens. Do not use in puppies under 2 months of age or weighing less than 1 kg. - You may see dead worms in your pet's stool after treatment.
Is Pyrantel 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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