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Pyrantel Pamoate in Veterinary Medicine - Facts and Information

Pyrantel Pamoate

Updated on September 10, 2024

Antiparasitic used to treat intestinal parasites in many species.

Pyrantel Pamoate

Summary

Used For:

Pyrantel is an antiparasitic medication used to treat various worm infections, predominantly roundworms, hookworms and some species of stomach worms in animals.

Brands: Strongid T, Nemex

Species: Dogs, cats, rabbits, horses, llamas, and birds

Drug type: Anti-parasitic

Pregnancy and lactation:

No harmful effects have been noted when used in pregnant or lactating animals, but always consult your veterinarian for guidance before administration as your vet may recommend a specific timeline to follow based on your pet's specific case.

Side effects:

Vomiting and diarrhea. While rare, it is possible that a very small animal with a heavy parasite burden may develop a worm impaction as the large number of worms die and attempt to pass through the GI tract at the same time.

General description

Pyrantel pamoate is an oral antiparasitic used to treat roundworm, hookworm and some species of stomach worm infections in many species of animals. While many medications are often administered for ‘off-label’ or 'extra-label' use in veterinary medicine, it is important to know that off- or extra- label use of a medication can only be done by a veterinarian when there are no other more appropriate medications for a particular pet's circumstances. Your veterinarian must also know all vitamins, supplements, medications etc. your pet is taking to help avoid complications. You must also be sure to follow all instructions provided by your vet carefully and consult your veterinarian with any questions or concerns if they arise.

Uses

Pyrantel is used to treat roundworm, hookworm and some species of stomach worm parasites. Multiple doses several weeks apart are often used to treat or prevent parasite infections.

How it works

Pyrantel is a depolarizing, neuromuscular-blocking agent which paralyzes susceptible parasites.

Dosage

  • Information provided below outlines what a typical dose might look like.:
  • Dogs and Cats: 5 – 10 milligrams per kilogram of body weight by mouth.
  • Rabbits: 5 – 10 milligrams per kilogram of body weight by mouth.
  • Horses: 6.67 milligrams per kilogram of body weight by mouth.
  • Llamas: 18 milligrams per kilogram of body weight by mouth.
  • Birds: 25 milligrams per kilogram of body weight by mouth.

Forms

Many products available. Tablets: 22.7 and 113.5 milligrams (of base) Oral Suspension: 4.54 milligrams per milliliter (as base) in 60, 120, 280 and 473 milliliter bottles. Oral Suspension: 50 milligrams per milliliter. Oral Paste: 43.9% pyrantel base in 23.6 grams (20 milliliters) paste (180 milligrams pyrantel base per milliliter).

Storage information & handling

Store in tight, light resistant containers at room temperature. Shake oral suspension before use.

What results can I expect?

Elimination of the intestinal parasites for which the medication was prescribed. Roundworms are large enough to be seen by the naked eye and may be passed alive and able to move.

Missed Dosage

Give the dose as soon as possible and remember to wait for the prescribed amount of time your veterinarian recommended for future doses. 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. Ensure the full treatment prescribed by your veterinarian is completed.

Overdose / acute toxicity

Depending on the species, overdose is uncommon due to wide margin of safety. Overdose may cause increased respiratory rates, profuse sweating and incoordination/ataxia. Keep stored product out of reach of animals and children.

Side effects

Rare, but may include:
•Vomiting
•Diarrhea
•While rare, it is possible that a very small animal with a heavy parasite burden may develop a worm impaction as the large number of worms die and attempt to pass through the GI tract at the same time.

Contraindications

•Avoid use or use with caution in animals with a known sensitivity or that are severely debilitated.

Drug interactions

Consult your veterinarian before using pyrantel with any other medications, even vitamins and supplements. The following drugs may interact with pyrantel: * Levamisole * Morantel * Organophosphates * Piperazine

Precaution

Pyrantel should be used cautiously in geriatric and debilitated animals. Parasite resistance may develop following frequent and repeated use of a specific class of anthelmintic. Suspension products should be shaken thoroughly before each use.

Sources

Plumb’s Veterinary Drug Handbook

VIN Veterinary Drug Handbook

Manufacturer information

Zoetis

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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.