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
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.
Find a vet near you →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
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.
Find a vet near you →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).
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.
Find a vet near you →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
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database