Praziquantel
AntiparasiticsAn anticestodal and antitrematodal agent (against tapeworms, schistosomes, and others). It increases the permeability of the parasite's membrane to calcium ions, causing intense contraction and damage to its outer tegument, leading to paralysis, death, and disintegration.
Pharmacological information
A class-level scientific overview for general reference — no doses. The ultimate reference is always the locally approved product leaflet and consultation with a veterinarian.
Mechanism of action
An anticestodal and antitrematodal agent (against tapeworms, schistosomes, and others). It increases the permeability of the parasite's membrane to calcium ions, causing intense contraction and damage to its outer tegument, leading to paralysis, death, and disintegration.
Indications
- Tapeworms in dogs, cats, and ruminants
- Some susceptible flukes
Contraindications & warnings
- Caution in very young animals per the label
- Hypersensitivity to the substance
Drug interactions
- Hepatic enzyme inducers may lower its blood levels
Withdrawal periods
| Species | Meat | Milk | Eggs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horses | 64 days | — | — |
| Species | Meat | Milk | Eggs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horses | 30 days | — | — |
Recorded adverse effects
openFDA veterinary reports — the numbers are report counts, not a severity rate.
Dogs
Cats
Related products
Sources
- •Withdrawal periods: UK Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD).
- •Adverse effects: the openFDA veterinary database.
- •European Medicines Agency (EMA) — Veterinary medicines
- •Merck Veterinary Manual — Pharmacology
- •Always verify the locally approved leaflet and consult a veterinarian.