Fenbendazole is a broad-spectrum benzimidazole anthelmintic that kills parasites by binding to tubulin. This interferes with microtubule formation and disrupts energy production, causing the parasite to starve to death.
It is available in many forms, including granules and suspension. Your veterinarian can recommend the best form for your pet. It is important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions for administration and storage. The medication can cause side effects like diarrhea and nausea. It is important to discuss your pet’s history of allergies, illnesses and other medications with your vet before starting treatment.
Several types of intestinal parasites can live inside your dog’s gut, and they all require a deworming medication to eliminate them. Some, like giardia, can also live in people and pets. Your veterinarian will prescribe a variety of dewormers depending on your pet’s needs and the type of parasite. One of the most commonly prescribed wormers is Panacur. This medication is a broad-spectrum anthelmintic and works against many different types of intestinal parasites.
Your veterinarian will likely prescribe Panacur to treat gastrointestinal tract parasites like roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, the taenia tapeworm genus (but not effective against Dipylidium caninum, the common dog tapeworm) and pinworms, as well as giardia. It is also a good choice to treat lungworms in dogs and cats. It is a moderate-acting medication, and your veterinarian will probably recommend a fecal sample to check that the medication is working.
A fecal sample will help your veterinarian determine whether the medication is working or whether additional doses are needed. Your veterinarian will also be able to tell you if your pet is prone to developing a drug resistance.
In addition to treating symptoms, fenbendazole can be used to prevent parasites from reoccurring. Your veterinarian may recommend a maintenance dose of fenbendazole to keep your pet parasite-free.
Some pet owners report that their pet’s gastrointestinal issues improve after giving them a round of fenbendazole. Others say the medication only relieves their pet’s symptoms for a few days, then the parasites return. If this happens, talk to your veterinarian about why the medication is not working and ask if your pet should continue receiving it.
You should also make sure to give your pet the full prescription of fenbendazole. Failure to do so can lead to the death of your pet.
Fenbendazole, sold under the brand name Panacur, is FDA-approved for use in dogs and cats to treat various gastrointestinal infections. It can also be prescribed on an extra-label basis for other veterinary conditions, such as giardia.
Our Medications content is written and reviewed by veterinary professionals but should not be used to replace the advice of your veterinarian. Talk to your veterinarian before starting a new treatment plan for your animal. You can find a local veterinarian here.fenbendazole powder