Binds to parasite beta-tubulin, inhibiting microtubule polymerization and glucose uptake, leading to energy depletion and death of helminths
At a glance
Class
Benzimidazole anthelmintic
Dosing
GI nematodes / Giardia / Lungworm
Max dose
1500 mg/dose; 3000 mg/day
Duration: 3 days for GI parasites; 10–14 days for Giardia
GI parasites / Giardia
Max dose
400 mg/dose; 800 mg/day
Duration: 3 days; use with caution
Safety
Absolute contraindications — do not use
Adverse effects
Common
Anorexia
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Serious
Bone marrow suppression (especially cats)
Hepatotoxicity
Teratogenicity
CBC (cats and prolonged use)Fecal examinationHepatic enzymes
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Albendazole?
Albendazole is a benzimidazole anthelmintic used in pets. Binds to parasite beta-tubulin, inhibiting microtubule polymerization and glucose uptake, leading to energy depletion and death of helminths
›What is Albendazole used for in pets?
Albendazole is used in veterinary medicine for: GI nematodes / Giardia / Lungworm; GI parasites / Giardia.
›What is the Albendazole dose for dogs?
For dogs, Albendazole is typically dosed as follows — GI nematodes / Giardia / Lungworm: 25–50 mg/kg PO BID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Albendazole dose for cats?
For cats, Albendazole is typically dosed as follows — GI parasites / Giardia: 25–50 mg/kg PO BID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Albendazole?
Common: Anorexia, Vomiting, Diarrhoea. Serious (call your vet immediately): Bone marrow suppression (especially cats), Hepatotoxicity, Teratogenicity.
›Does Albendazole need a prescription?
Yes. Albendazole is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
›When should Albendazole not be used?
Do not use Albendazole if: Pregnancy (first trimester).
References
CDSCO approvals (India) — 1
Albendazole
M/s SKF Bangalore · Approved 1979-October
Anthelmetic- indicated in the control of gastro- intestinal roundworm, lungworm tapewarm &adult liver flukes in cattle s
Source: CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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