Fenbendazole
“This page provides important general information for pet owners whose animals have been prescribed Fenbendazole during a consultation by Dr Noor.”
Key Information
- Fenbendazole is given to treat several types of parasites that live in the intestines.
- Give this medicine with a meal.
- Your veterinarian may tell you to repeat the treatment so that all parasites are fully cleared.
- Side effects do not happen often, but can include throwing up, loose stool (diarrhea), or extra drooling.
Note: This handout is meant to address common questions. It does not include every detail known about this medicine and it does not replace guidance from your veterinary care team.
Description
Fenbendazole for pets in Perth is a medicine used to kill or remove parasites.
Other common names
- Panacur
- Panacur-C
- Safe-Guard
Uses
Uses approved for dogs:
- Used to treat roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms.
Your veterinarian may also choose to use it in other animals or for other purposes (this is sometimes called “extra-label use”), including:
- Treating other types of intestinal parasites in dogs.
- Treating intestinal parasites in cats and other animals.
Before this medication is given
No medicine is completely safe for every animal. Talk with your veterinarian about:
- Any medicines or supplements your animal is taking.
- Any health problems your animal has now, or has had before.
- Any unwanted reactions your animal has had to medicines in the past.
- The possible risks of using this medicine if your animal is pregnant or nursing.
Warnings for animals
Do not use:
- If your animal has an allergy to this medicine.
- In puppies that are under 6 weeks old.
- In animals that are currently ill unless your veterinarian specifically instructs you to use it.
Use with caution in:
- Birds. In some bird species, fenbendazole may be harmful.
Some animal competitions do not allow certain medicines. If your animal competes, check the rules while your animal is taking any medication.
Warnings for humans
Wash your hands after you handle any medication.
How do I give this medication?
Give this medicine exactly the way your veterinarian directed. Follow the directions on the prescription label every time.
- Give with food.
- If you are using granules, place them on a small portion of food. If the food is dry, you may need to add a small amount of water so the granules stick. Make sure your animal eats all of the food that contains the full dose.
- If you are using a liquid, shake it well before every dose.
- For liquids, use an oral syringe, a medicine cup, or a dosing spoon to measure. Do not use kitchen spoons or other household measuring tools.
Side effects of Fenbendazole for pets
Side effects are not common, but may include vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling. Call your veterinarian if these signs are severe, keep happening, or get worse.
Stop giving the medicine and contact your veterinarian right away if you notice any of the following:
- Low energy, fever, or not wanting to eat. These can be signs of low blood cell counts.
- Hives, swelling of the face, trouble breathing, or collapse. These can be signs of an allergic reaction.
How will I know it's working?
Your animal may begin to feel better within 1 to 2 days.
In some cases, you may see dead worms in the stool.
Your veterinarian will need to do follow-up testing to check how well the medicine worked.
Contact your veterinary clinic if your animal’s signs get worse or do not get better.
How long will the medication effects last?
The effects of this medicine may continue for a few days after the final dose.
How long do I give it for?
Most successful treatments need at least 3 days in a row. Some parasites need a longer treatment time. Give the medicine for the full length of time your veterinarian tells you.
Your veterinarian may instruct you to repeat the treatment course a couple of weeks later to kill any parasites that remain.
Finish the entire treatment course even if your animal seems better.
Overdose
If you see an overdose happen or think one may have happened, contact your veterinarian right away.
If possible, have the product container or label available.
Missed dose
In most situations, if you forget a dose:
- Give it as soon as you remember, 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 at room temperature.
Store where children and animals cannot reach it.
Disposal
Do not flush this medicine in the toilet and do not pour it into a sink drain. This medicine is very harmful to aquatic life.
Ways to get rid of unused or expired medicine include:
- Drug take-back locations: This is the best option when available. To find a nearby site, contact local law enforcement or your waste management office.
- At-home disposal: Mix the medicine with coffee grounds or kitty litter, place it in a sealed plastic bag, and put it in the trash.
Do not keep leftover medicine for later use and do not give it to anyone else to use.
Questions?
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.”
Medication Refills for Chronic Pet Conditions and Medication Supply at Home are also available through our mobile vet Perth service.