Praziquantel/PraziquantelDose, contraindications and adverse effects for Cats, Dogs, Horses and Poultry.

Isoquinoline anthelmintic effective against tapeworms; disrupts calcium channels in parasite muscle, causing paralysis. Praziquantel is FDA-approved in dogs for the treatment of Dipylid- ium caninum, Taenia pisiformis, Echinococcus granulosus and treatment and control of E multilocularis. In cats, it is FDA-approved for the treatment of D caninum and T taeniaeformis. A single dose is usually effective, but measures should be taken to prevent reinfection (eg, flea control), particularly against D caninum. Praziq

The mechanism of action of praziquantel against cestodes is thought to be the result of the drug interacting with phospholipids in the parasite integument, causing ion fluxes of sodium, potassium, and calcium. At low concentrations in vitro, the drug appears to paralyze the worm’s sucker function and stimulate worm motility.

Praziquantel is contraindicated in patients that have previously shown hypersensitivity to it or any excipients. The manufacturer recommends not using praziquantel in puppies younger than 4 weeks or kittens younger than 6 weeks. In humans, praziquantel is contraindicated in patients with ocular parasitism and should be used with caution in patients with moderate to severe liver dysfunction or a history of epilepsy.

In dogs, oral administration of praziquantel can cause anorexia, vomiting, lethargy, or diarrhea; the incidence of these effects is less than 5%.7 In cats, salivation and diarrhea were reported after oral administration; in field trials, the incidence of adverse effects was less than 2%.7 A greater incidence of adverse effects has been reported after use of the injectable product.

■ Clinical efficacy: Confirm presence of parasites with fecal laboratory examination