Pyrantel (Dogs/Cats)
“This page provides important general information for pet owners whose animals have been prescribed Pyrantel for pets (Dogs/Cats) during a consultation by Dr Noor.”
Key Information
- Pyrantel is a medicine used to get rid of several kinds of worms that live in the intestines.
- You can give it with food or on an empty stomach.
- If you are using the liquid form, shake the bottle very well each time before you measure a dose.
- After treatment, you might see dead worms in your pet’s poop, or you might not see any.
- Possible unwanted effects include throwing up, loose stools, or eating less.
Note: This handout is meant to answer common questions. It does not include every detail known about this medicine. It is not a replacement for medical guidance from your veterinary care team.
Description
- This is a worm-killing medicine.
- It comes as a liquid you give by mouth and as tablets you give by mouth.
Other common names
- Nemex
Uses
Approved uses in dogs for Pyrantel for pets:
- Used to treat and help prevent infections caused by roundworms and hookworms.
At your veterinarian’s judgment, this medicine may also be used in other animals or for other purposes (this is called “extra-label use”), such as:
- Treating other types of intestinal worms in dogs.
- Treating intestinal worms in cats and other animals.
Before this medication is given
No medicine is completely safe for every animal. Talk with your veterinarian about:
- Any other medicines, vitamins, or supplements your pet is taking.
- Any health problems your pet has now, or has had before.
- Any bad reactions your pet has had to medicines in the past.
- The possible risks of using this medicine if your pet is pregnant or nursing.
Warnings for animals
Do not use:
- In animals that have an allergy to this medicine.
Use with caution in animals:
- That have liver disease.
- That are ill or weak.
Some animal competitions do not allow certain medicines. If your animal competes, check the rules while your animal is taking this medicine.
Warnings for humans
- After you handle any medicine, wash your hands.
How do I give this medication?
Give this medicine exactly the way your veterinarian prescribed it. Always follow the directions on the prescription label.
- You may give it with food or without food.
- If you are giving a liquid, shake it well before every dose.
- For liquids, measure the dose with an oral syringe, a medicine cup, or a dosing spoon. Do not measure with kitchen spoons or other household measuring tools.
- Your veterinarian may tell you to give another treatment again after a couple of weeks so that all worms are cleared.
Side effects
Call your veterinarian if any of the following problems are serious, keep happening, or get worse over time:
- Throwing up
- Loose stools
- Eating less
How will I know it's working?
You may not be able to see a clear change. After treatment, dead worms may be seen in the poop, or they may not be seen.
Your pet should begin to feel better within 1 to 2 days.
Your veterinarian will need to do follow-up testing to check how well this medicine worked.
How long will the medication effects last?
This medicine stops having an effect within 24 hours after the last dose.
The effect may last longer if your pet’s liver function is reduced.
How long do I give it for?
This medicine may be prescribed for different time periods. Keep giving it for the full length of time your veterinarian instructs.
You may need to get the prescription refilled.
It is important to complete the full treatment plan, even if your pet seems to be feeling better.
Overdose
Signs of too much medicine may include breathing faster than normal or trouble walking.
If you see or think an overdose has happened, contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control service right away.
If possible, have the product container or label with you.
Missed dose
In most situations, if you forget a dose:
- Give the dose as soon as you remember, and then go back to the usual schedule.
If it is almost time for the next dose:
- Do not give the missed dose.
- Give the next dose at the regular time.
- Continue with the normal schedule.
If you are not sure what to do, call your veterinary clinic. Do not give two doses at once and do not give extra doses.
Storage
- Keep the medicine in its original container at room temperature.
- Keep it away from light.
- Store it where children and animals cannot reach it.
Some versions are flavored to make them attractive to pets. Because of this, it is important to store it securely and well out of reach to help prevent accidental overdose.
Disposal
Do not flush this medicine in the toilet and do not pour it down a sink.
Ways to get rid of unused or expired medicine include:
- Drug take back sites: This is the best option when available. To find a location near you, contact local law enforcement or your waste management office.
- Home disposal: Mix the medicine with coffee grounds or kitty litter, put it into a sealed plastic bag, and place it in the trash.
Do not keep leftover medicine for later use and do not give it to anyone else to use.
Questions about Pyrantel for pets?
Speak with your veterinarian.
“Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided as general educational material only. Every animal’s health situation is unique, and treatment decisions must be based on a full veterinary assessment. Always follow the specific instructions given during your consultation, and contact the prescribing veterinarian if you have any concerns.”