Praziquantel analog that disrupts calcium homeostasis in tapeworm tegument, causing paralysis, detachment from the intestinal wall, and disintegration of the worm. Active against Dipylidium caninum and Taenia species.
At a glance
Class
Cestocide (Anti-Tapeworm)
Storage
Store at room temperature below 30°C
Dosing
Used for tapeworm removal (Dipylidium caninum, Taenia species)
Lower dose in cats than dogs
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
Fecal exam 2–4 weeks post-treatmentFlea control (Dipylidium prevention)
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 Epsiprantel?
Epsiprantel is a cestocide (anti-tapeworm) used in pets. Praziquantel analog that disrupts calcium homeostasis in tapeworm tegument, causing paralysis, detachment from the intestinal wall, and disintegration of the worm. Active against Dipylidium caninum and Taenia species.
›What is Epsiprantel used for in pets?
Epsiprantel is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for tapeworm removal (Dipylidium caninum, Taenia species); Lower dose in cats than dogs.
›What is the Epsiprantel dose for dogs?
For dogs, Epsiprantel is typically dosed as follows — Used for tapeworm removal (Dipylidium caninum, Taenia species): 5.5 mg/kg PO Once. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Epsiprantel dose for cats?
For cats, Epsiprantel is typically dosed as follows — Lower dose in cats than dogs: 2.75 mg/kg PO Once. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Epsiprantel need a prescription?
Yes. Epsiprantel is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
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
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