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Diminazene

Prescription
Antiprotozoal (Aromatic Diamidine)
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Aromatic diamidine compound that binds to kinetoplast DNA (kDNA) minor groove of trypanosomes and Babesia, disrupting DNA replication and transcription. Also inhibits aerobic glycolysis and delta-aminolevulinic acid synthetase in protozoa.

At a glance

Class
Antiprotozoal (Aromatic Diamidine)
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature; reconstituted solution use immediately

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for Babesia canis infection (large Babesia)
Dose
3.5–5 mg/kg
Route
IM (deep injection)
Frequency
Once; may repeat once in 24h
🐈

Cat

Very limited feline data
Dose
2 mg/kg
Route
IM
Frequency
Once

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature; reconstituted solution use immediately

Safety

Monitoring parameters

PCV and blood smear post-treatmentNeurological assessmentRenal and hepatic functionClinical response at 24–48h

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Berenil
Ganaseg

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Diminazene?
Diminazene is a antiprotozoal (aromatic diamidine) used in pets. Aromatic diamidine compound that binds to kinetoplast DNA (kDNA) minor groove of trypanosomes and Babesia, disrupting DNA replication and transcription. Also inhibits aerobic glycolysis and delta-aminolevulinic acid synthetase in protozoa.
What is Diminazene used for in pets?
Diminazene is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for Babesia canis infection (large Babesia); Very limited feline data.
What is the Diminazene dose for dogs?
For dogs, Diminazene is typically dosed as follows — Used for Babesia canis infection (large Babesia): 3.5–5 mg/kg IM (deep injection) Once; may repeat once in 24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Diminazene dose for cats?
For cats, Diminazene is typically dosed as follows — Very limited feline data: 2 mg/kg IM Once. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Diminazene need a prescription?
Yes. Diminazene is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

References

CDSCO approvals (India) — 1

Each ml contains: Diminazene Diaceturate 70 mg+ Phenazone BP 375 mg + chlorocres
M/s. Crescent Lab · Approved 13.02.2015
For the treatment of: Babesiosis caused by B.bovis, B.bigemina, B.motasi & B.canis. Trypanosomoisis caused by T.congolen
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. Find a vet near you →

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