3850 Grand View Blvd. - Los Angeles, CA 90066 - Phone:(310) 391-6741 - Fax:(310) 391-6744 - Email: MarVistaAMC@gmail.com
(310)391-6741
www.marvistavet.com
PRAZIQUANTEL (for veterinary information only) BRAND NAME: DRONCIT, DRONTAL, DRONTAL PLUS, INTERCEPTOR PLUS, IVERHART MAX, IVERHART PLUS,
AVAILABLE AS
HOW THIS MEDICATION IS USED Praziquantel is primarily used against parasites known as "cestodes" (tapeworms). The Common Tapeworm of dogs & cats (Dipylidium caninum), is the usual target of this medication though praziquantel is also effective against less common types of tapeworms such as Taenia species and the more dangerous Mesocestoides species and Echinococcus species. Praziquantel is also effective against flukes.
A single treatment of praziquantel should clear a Dipylidium caninum infection though a second treatment is sometimes recommended if it is felt that immediate re-infection is likely. Immediate re-infection might take place if a heavy uncontrolled flea problem is present in the pet's environment; Dipylidium caninum is contracted when an infected adult flea harboring a tapeworm larva is eaten. Oral Combination Products Topical Combination Products
HOW THIS MEDICATION WORKS Praziquantel acts by inciting damage to the parasite's skin internally such that the parasite disintegrates and is removed by the host's immune system. Unlike the situation with roundworms, dead tapeworms generally will not be seen passing from the host after deworming.
SIDE EFFECTS Injectable praziquantel tends to sting at the site of administration more than most injections and it is not unusual for a pet to scratch at the site or express discomfort immediately following injection. The oral form of praziquantel is bitter tasting and approximately 5% of patients taking it experience nausea. It has been reported that approximately one cat in ten will experience weakness, salivation, or nausea after a tapeworm injection with praziquantel, but we have seen such reactions far less frequently. This is generally of minor significance and resolves on its own.
INTERACTIONS WITH OTHER DRUGS The following medications can increase the blood levels of praziquantel: cimetidine (an antacid), ketoconazole (an antifungal), and itraconazole (another antifungal). CAUTIONS & CONCERNS Praziquantel is felt to be safe for use in pregnant patients. Praziquantel should not be used in puppies under age 4 weeks or kittens under age 6 weeks. The topical Profender® product described above is approved for feline use only and is not approved for kittens under age 8 weeks. Fasting is not necessary prior to praziquantel use and oral praziquantel can be given with or without food. Tablets should be stored at room temperature away from light exposure. Short version (to help us comply with "Lizzie's Law") Page last revised: 9/4/2020 |