Pyrantel Pamoate for Dogs

Pyrantel pamoate is a substance with deworming effect, helping dogs and other animals get rid of parasites, especially hookworms and roundworms. It is recommended both in young and adult animals to control parasitic infestations. The drug may be found in different commercial brands and it can be bought over the counter, although it is best to administer it under medical supervision, thus basing the treatment on the dosage and period of administration prescribed by your veterinarian.

Pyrantel Pamoate for Dogs

Pyrantel pamoate is a drug made of pyrantel and pamoic acid. It can be used in dogs to get rid of worms and preventing diseases caused by parasites. Pyrantel pamoate is used to fight mainly hookworms and roundworms, but it can also be combined with other substances such as praziquantel to fight tapeworms or febantel to kill whipworms.

The drug can be used both in puppies and in adult dogs in order to control parasitic infestation. It does not cause major problems in nursing dogs, so it can be used during that period as well.

It is important to get the right dosage for the treatment to work. The dosage is calculated according to your dog’s weight, sex and breed and it is best to consult a veterinarian for advice.

Action of Pyrantel Pamoate

Pyrantel pamoate acts as a paralytic substance which affects the parasites living inside the dog’s body. Usually worms stay attached to the host’s body through their teeth or suckers. Pyrantel pamoate is like a neuromuscular blocker and it paralyses the worm causing it to relax and loosen its grip. This way, the worm is detached from the host’s intestines and eliminated through feces.

Given that only small amounts of the substance is absorbed through the intestines, it does not have the same paralytic effect on the host as is does in worms. So, your dog is safe if you respect the prescribed dosage and means of administration.

Pyrantel pamoate only acts on worms that are already attached to the dog’s intestines, but it does not have any effect on parasites in their larval stage. Therefore, you might need to repeat the treatment within 2 to 4 weeks after the first administration just to make sure that your dog eliminates all parasites. In some cases, a third treatment might be necessary. Follow-up after deworming is necessary to prevent further infestations in your dog.

Warning and Caution

You should be aware that while the parasites are being eliminated, the dog might start vomiting and may have diarrhea. In puppies, these symptoms may be more severe and can lead to dehydration, so keep an eye on your pet during the treatment and make sure he drinks plenty of water and eats his food.

If your dog undergoes another treatment, consult with your veterinarian since pyrantel pamoate might interact with other drugs. Pyrantel pamoate can be used during pregnancy and lactation and might be even recommended during pregnancy to prevent the transmission of parasites to the puppies.

 

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