What is praziquantel?
Praziquantel (brand names: Droncit®, Drontal®, Biltricide®, Bio-Cest®, Cercon®, Cesol®, Cestox®, Cisticid®, ComboCare®, Cysticide®, Ehliten®, Equimax®, Extiser Q®, Mycotricide®, Opticide®, Quest Plus®, Praquantel®, Prasikon®, Prazite®, Prozitel®, Sincerck®, Teniken®, Virbantel®, Waycital®, or Zifartel®, and Zimecterin Gold Paste®) is an antiparasitic dewormer used to treat a variety of parasite infections, most commonly tapeworms, in cats, dogs, small mammals, birds, reptiles, and large animals. Praziquantel is also commonly used in combination with other antiparasitic medications.
Its use in treating certain parasites is sometimes off label (extra label). Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
How is praziquantel given?
- Praziquantel is given by mouth in the form of a tablet.
- It can be given with or without food, but your pet should not be fasted when giving this medication.
- The tablet can be crushed and mixed with food, but you must ensure that your pet swallows the entire dose.
- If your pet vomits shortly after dosing, call your veterinarian for instructions.
- It can also be given by injection in the hospital or clinic.
This medication should take effect within 1 to 2 hours; however, effects may not be noted outwardly, and laboratory tests may need to be done to evaluate this medication’s effectiveness.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then wait the recommended amount of time between doses. Do not give the pet two doses at once.
Are there any potential side effects?
In dogs, praziquantel may cause the following side effects:
- lack of appetite
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- tiredness
In cats, side effects are very rare, but may include the following:
- drooling
- diarrhea
Side effects after the injection include:
- pain at the injection site
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- sleepiness
- drooling
- decreased appetite
- staggering while walking
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?
Praziquantel should NOT BE USED in:
- pets that are allergic to it
- puppies less than 3 weeks old
- kittens less than 6 weeks old
Praziquantel should USED WITH CAUTION in lactating pets. If praziquantel is given, the mother should not nurse for four days following the dose.
Products containing only praziquantel are likely safe for pregnant pets.
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
The following medications should be used with caution when given with praziquantel:
- albendazole
- cimetidine
- ketoconazole
- itraconazole
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking.
Is any monitoring needed with this medication?
- No specific monitoring is required while your pet is taking this medication.
- Your veterinarian may perform fecal examinations to monitor your pet and confirm the medication is working. Dead worms are frequently digested though, and so will not always be visible in the feces.
How do I store praziquantel?
- Store tablets at room temperature in a tight container.
- Protect from light.
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.
