What is fenbendazole?
Fenbendazole (brand names Panacur®, Safe-Guard®) is a medication used to treat a variety of parasites in dogs (e.g., roundworm, hookworm, lungworm, whipworm, and certain types of tapeworm).
Its use in cats for the treatment of parasites is “off label” or “extra label”. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
How is fenbendazole given?
- Fenbendazole comes as oral granules or as a liquid suspension, and is given by mouth. Liquid forms must be measured carefully.
- Fenbendazole should be given with food to reduce gastrointestinal upset.
- Give this medication as directed by your veterinarian. Fenbendazole is often given once daily for three consecutive days and then again in another round two to three weeks later.
- It is important your pet receives all the doses recommended by your veterinarian. Do not stop early or skip doses unless recommended by your veterinarian. Re-treatment may be necessary if doses are missed, if the medication is stopped too soon, or if reinfection from the environment occurs.
This medication should take effect within one to two days, but visible effects will take the entire duration of treatment to be recognized.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication (or my shipment is late)?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.
Are there any potential side effects?
Fenbendazole may cause the following side effects:
- salivation
- vomiting
- diarrhea
Fenbendazole usually causes no side effects at regular doses. Sometimes, substances released by the dying parasites may cause an allergic reaction, especially if fenbendazole is given at higher than regular doses. The following reactions are rare; if they occur, contact your veterinarian immediately:
- an allergic reaction such as facial swelling, itchiness, hives, diarrhea, seizures, or shock
This moderate-acting medication should stop working in a few days, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
Fenbendazole is safe for use in most pets. Fenbendazole should not be used in:
- puppies younger than six weeks of age
- sick animals, unless directed by a veterinarian
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
There are no known drug interactions with fenbendazole. However, it is important to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking.
Is there any monitoring that needs to be done with this medication?
Your veterinarian may recommend a fecal examination to be sure that all internal parasites have been killed and to determine if additional doses are needed.
How do I store fenbendazole?
- Store fenbendazole granules in a tightly sealed container at room temperature and protected from sunlight.
- If your veterinarian has made a special formulation for your pet, follow the storage recommendations on the label and expiration date for the product.
What should I do in case of emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.
