Cat, Dog & Rabbit - Endoparasiticides

Why has my veterinary surgeon prescribed this medicine?

Endoparasiticides are also called anthelmintics or wormers.  These medicines are used for treatment and/or prevention of roundworms (nematodes), tapeworms (cestodes), and heartworm disease.  Fleas and lice can carry some types of tapeworm eggs and it is important that your pet is treated for fleas if tapeworm is diagnosed.

It is important that your pet is treated for worms regularly.  Your veterinary surgeon will advise a deworming programme for your pet.

There are different methods of giving endoparasiticides to your pet such as topical spot-on, an injection, tablets, or oral paste.  Your veterinary surgeon will advise you which preparation to use to suit you and your pet.
Products are available that can be used on dogs, cats, ferrets or rabbits. Always read the label and only use a product licensed for the species intended.

How do I give this medication?

• Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinary surgeon.  READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
• If the medicine is a liquid, measure the dose with reasonable care.
• Have a reminder system in place to indicate when the next treatment should be given.
• DO NOT give your pet more medicine than directed and DO NOT give more often than directed.
• Some medications in the form of tablets have a bitter taste and the tablets should not be crushed or broken.
• Try not to miss giving any doses.
• Wash your hands after handling the medication.
• In the case of accidental ingestion, seek medical advice immediately and show the package, leaflet or label to the physician.

What if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible and then resume the dosing programme advised by your veterinary surgeon.  Do not give your pet two doses at once.

How do I store and dispose of this medicine?

Keep this medicine out of reach of children.  Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature.  Store away from heat and direct sunlight.  Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places.  The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.  Wrap and dispose of packaging and unused product in your household waste.

Potential side effects

• Although a drug has possible side effects, it does not mean that there is necessarily a high risk of any of these occurring.  Tell your veterinary surgeon how old your pet is and if you think your pet is pregnant.
• There are very few side effects when endoparasiticides are given at the usual dose.  If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinary surgeon.

Possible drug interactions

• Make sure to tell your veterinary surgeon what other medication you are giving to your pet.
• Quite often your veterinary surgeon may prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated.  In this case, your veterinary surgeon may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
• Contact your veterinary surgeon if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.