Praziquantel

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Implementing an effective parasite control is an important part of your pet’s preventative health program. Parasites can impact your pet’s health and some intestinal parasites or worms can infect humans. Internal parasites can be found in pets that appear healthy and infected animals can continue to contribute to the spread of eggs in the environment. Each antiparasitic or anthelmintic (dewormer) drug will vary in its effectiveness in targeting different parasites. 

Praziquantel kills tapeworms and is available as chewable or regular tablets or as an injection that can be given at your veterinarian’s clinic. 

WHAT IS THIS PRODUCT?

• An anthelmintic (dewormer) for dogs and cats 
• Given by mouth or by an injection at your veterinarian’s clinic 

REASONS FOR PRESCRIBING:

To kill the tapeworm in dogs and cats that may be contracted from fleas, rodents or rabbits.

WHAT DOGS/CATS SHOULD NOT TAKE THIS MEDICATION?

• Praziquantel is safe to use in breeding and pregnant animals
• Puppies less than 4 weeks of age and weighing less than 2 pounds 
• Kittens less than 6 weeks of age and weighing less than 1.5 pounds 
• This medication is not effective against external parasites 
• This medication is not effective against roundworms, hookworms, whipworms or heartworms 
• If your pet has had an allergic reaction to Praziquantel or like products before 

• The injectable form is given by your veterinarian in the muscle (intramuscularly) or under the skin (subcutaneously). 

• For oral formulations, read and follow the label carefully. 

• Give the exact amount prescribed and only as often as directed. 

• Give this medication for as long as veterinarian directs. Do not skip doses or stop giving the medication without consulting your veterinarian. Missed doses reduce the effectiveness of therapy. This medication may be a life long medication. 

• The frequency of deworming is dependent upon your pet’s lifestyle and risk level for internal parasites. A single treatment may be sufficient, but a second dose 2-4 weeks later is recommended if re-infection is likely. 

• Re-infection is possible if there is a heavy, uncontrolled flea problem or if the pet eats mice or rabbits. Young animals need to be tested and dewormed frequently according to a worming schedule given to you by your veterinarian. 

• If your animal has a large load of tapeworms, deceased worms may be observed in the feces a few days after treatment. Usually however, they are digested and will not be seen. Hookworms and roundworms may be observed in the feces a few days after treatment with a combination product. 

• This medication may be given with or without food. Fasting is not necessarily required prior to administration or recommended. Tablets may be crumbled or mixed in the food. 

• Ensure your pet has plenty of food and fresh, clean drinking water while taking this medication. 

• Ensure that the entire dose has been swallowed. If you have any difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian. 

• This medication will take effect quickly, in about 1 to 2 hours, but its effects may not be visibly noticeable for a few days. 

• Ideally, give the medication at the same time(s) daily. Call ahead for refills.