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
Safety
Fecal exam 2–4 weeks post-treatmentFlea control (Dipylidium prevention)
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.
References
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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