Piperazine

Updated on November 01, 2024

Antiparasitic used to treat roundworms in many species.

Piperazine

Summary

Used For: Piperazine is an antiparasitic medication used to treat roundworms in animals.

Brands: Pipa-Tabs, Sergeant's Worm Away

Species: Dogs, cats, horses, swine, poultry, ruminants, reptiles and small mammals

Drug type: Anti-parasitic

Prescription required: No

Pregnancy and lactation: No harmful effects have been noted when used in pregnant or lactating animals.

Side effects: Vomiting and diarrhea

FDA Approved:

No

General description

Piperazine is an oral antiparasitic used to treat roundworm infections in many species of animals. Piperazine is rarely recommended by veterinarians today.

Uses

Piperazine is used to treat roundworms.

How it works

Piperazine is a neuromuscular-blocking agent which paralyzes susceptible parasite.

Dosage

**Dogs and Cats**: 45–65 milligrams per kilogram of body weight by mouth. Repeat in 2 weeks.

Forms

Many products available. Tablets: 50, 100, 104, 400, 500 mg tablets Oral Suspension: 17, 34, 40, 42.5, 50, 55, 94, 250, 450 milligrams per milliliter.

Storage information & handling

Store in tight, light resistant containers at room temperature. Shake oral suspension before use. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

What results can I expect?

Elimination of the intestinal parasites for which the medication was prescribed.

Missed Dosage

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Never give two doses at once.

Overdose / acute toxicity

Overdose is uncommon due to wide margin of safety. Overdose may cause: * Vomiting * Weakness * Difficulty breathing * Muscle tremors * Ataxia (wobbly gait) * Hypersalivation

Side effects

Rare, but may include: * Vomiting * Diarrhea * Ataxia

Contraindications

Do not use in pets with: * Known hypersensitivity * Chronic liver or kidney disease * Gastrointestinal hypo-motility Do not use in ill, febrile, underweight, or debilitated animals. Not for use in puppies and kittens less than 6 weeks of age.

Drug interactions

Consult your veterinarian before using piperazine with any other medications, even vitamins and supplements. Chlorpromazine, laxatives, and pyrantel/morantel may interact with piperazine

Precaution

If used in horses with heavy infestations, rupture or blockage of intestines is possible due to the rapid death and detachment of the worm. Obtain accurate body weight prior to administration.

Sources

*Plumb’s Veterinary Drug Handbook* *VIN Veterinary Drug Handbook*
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Disclaimer

The information contained on this page is for educational purposes only. This medication should only be given under the advice of a veterinarian who has examined your pet under the laws applicable to your state of residence.