Pet Medication 101: Praziquantel
It’s important to understand a medication’s uses and side effects before giving it to your pet. This medication info sheet is meant to give you a good understanding of what praziquantel (Drontal) is used for, how it works, and potential side effects in cats and dogs. Always consult a veterinarian before giving your pet any medication.
1. Drug Name:
praziquantel
2. Common Name or Brand Names:
Droncit, Drontal, Biltricide, Cisticid, Cysticide, Ehliten, Equimax, Mycotricide, Quest Plus, Praquantel, Prasikon, Prazitel, Sincerck, Virbantel, Zifartel, Zimecterin Gold Paste
3. How Dispensed:
Prescription-only
4. Forms:
23, 30, 34, 114, 500, and 600 mg tablets; 56.8mg/mL injectable solution; 7.75% and 14.03% oral paste; and 125 mg oral gel
5. Drug Type/Class:
Anthelmintic (anti-parasitic)
6. Uses in Dogs and Cats:
Treatment of tapeworms
7. How it Works:
Affects the permeability of the tapeworm’s cell membrane, resulting in digestion by the gastric fluids of the host
8. Side Effects and/or Signs of Overdose:
Vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, pain at the injection site, and drooling in cats
Signs of overdose include depression, weakness, and uncoordinated movements
9. Drug Interactions:
Albendazole, Cimetidine, Itraconazole, Ketoconazole, Phenobarbital, and Rifampin
10. Cautionary Statements:
- Do not use in puppies less than 4 weeks old or kittens less than 6 weeks old.
- Use with caution in lactating pets.
- Side effects may last longer in patients with liver or kidney disease.
Read more:
Pet Medication 101: Ivermectin
Pet Medication 101: Milbemycin Oxime
Pet Medication 101: Pyrantel Pamoate
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