Fenbendazole

(fen-ben-da-zole)

Other names for this medication: Panacur, Panacur-C, Safe-Guard

Fenbendazole is used to treat a variety of intestinal parasites.

•Give with food.

•Your veterinarian may recommend repeating the treatment to make sure all parasites have been eliminated.

•Side effects are generally uncommon but may include vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling.

Description

•Antiparasitic agent

•Common formulations used in dogs and cats include granules and oral suspensions.

Uses

FDA-approved uses in dogs:

•Treatment of roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms

At the discretion of your veterinarian, this medication may be used in different species or for other reasons (extra-label use), such as:

•Treatment of other kinds of intestinal parasites in dogs

•Treatment of intestinal parasites in cats and other species

Before this medication is given

No medication is 100% safe in all patients. Discuss with your veterinarian:

•Any other medications or supplements your animal is taking

•Any conditions or diseases your animal has now or has had in the past

•Any side effects your animal has had to medications in the past

•The risks of using this medication if your animal is pregnant or nursing

Warnings for animals

Do not use:

•In patients that are allergic to it

•In puppies younger than 6 weeks of age

•Without veterinarian instruction in patients that are currently sick

Use with caution in:

•Birds. Fenbendazole can be dangerous for some species of birds.

Certain medications are not allowed in some animal competitions. Check rules and regulations when your animal is taking a medication.

Warnings for humans

•Wash your hands after handling any medication.

How do I give this medication?

•Give with food.

•Sprinkle granules on a small amount of food. You may need to moisten dry food with a small amount of water. Make sure your animal eats the entire dose.

•Shake liquids well before each dose.

•Measure liquids using an oral syringe, medicine cup, or dosing spoon. Do not use household measuring devices.

Give exactly as your veterinarian has prescribed. Always follow the instructions on the prescription label.

Side effects

Side effects are generally uncommon but may include vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling. Contact your veterinarian if any of these signs are severe, continue to occur, or worsen over time.

Stop the medication and contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of the following signs:

•Low energy level, fever, or poor appetite. These may be signs of low blood cell counts.

•Hives, swollen face, trouble breathing, or collapse. These may be signs of an allergic reaction.

How will I know it's working?

•Your animal should start feeling better within 1 to 2 days.

•Although uncommon, dead worms may be seen in the stool.

•Your veterinarian will need to run follow-up tests to see how well this medication is working.

Contact your veterinary clinic if your animal’s signs worsen or do not improve.

How long will the medication effects last?

•The effect of this medication may last for a few days after the last dose.

How long do I give it for?

•Successful treatment usually requires at least 3 consecutive days of treatment. Some parasites require treatment for longer. Give for as long as your veterinarian tells you.

•Your veterinarian may have you repeat the treatment course a couple weeks later to kill any remaining parasites.

•It is important to finish the entire course of treatment, even if your animal starts feeling better.

Overdose

If you witness or suspect an overdose, call your veterinarian or an animal-specific poison control center (consultation fee applies):

•ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435

•Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Have the product or label with you if possible.

Missed dose

In most cases, if you miss a dose:

•Give it when you remember, then return to the regular dosing schedule.

If it is close to the time for the next dose:

•Skip the missed dose.

•Give the next dose at the next scheduled time.

•Continue the regular dosing schedule.

If you are unsure, call your veterinary clinic. Do not double-up or give extra doses.

Storage

•Store at room temperature.

•Keep out of reach of children and animals.

Disposal

Do not flush this medication down the toilet or wash down the sink. This medication is very harmful to aquatic life. Options for disposing of unused or expired medications include:

•Drug take back sites: This is preferred whenever possible. To find a site near you, contact your local law enforcement or waste management authorities.

•Home disposal: Mix the medication in with coffee grounds or kitty litter, seal in a plastic bag, and throw away in the trash.

Do not save leftover medication or give it to others to use.