• Drug Name: :
    		•  Febendazole
  • Common Name: :
    		• Panacur®
  • DRUG TYPE:
    		• Antihelmintic
  • USED FOR:
    		• Eradication of intestinal parasites
  • SPECIES:
    		• Dogs
  • ADMINISTERED
    		• Powder, Granules, Injectable
  • HOW DISPENSED:
    		• Over the counter
  • FDA APPROVED:
    		• Yes, in dogs

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Febendazole is a drug prescribed by veterinarians to treat intestinal parasites. It kills roundworms, whipworms, hookworms, and tapeworms in pets. It is only FDA-approved in dogs, but veterinarians often prescribe Febendazole to cats as well.

Your veterinarian may perform a fecal floatation test if they suspect a parasite or as part of a routine check-up. It involves taking a small fecal sample from your dog using a lubricated fecal loop. The feces is then put in a small container with a solution that will allow most of the fecal matter to sink and the parasite eggs to float. A slide is then made of the floating material and examined under a microscope. The slide is then scanned for eggs.

HOW IT WORKS:

Febendazole works by interrupting the parasites’ cellular transport and metabolism. They diminish the parasites’ energy reserves and limit their ability to eliminate waste and produce protective factors from their cells.

STORAGE INFORMATION:

Store in a tightly sealed container at room temperature.

MISSED DOSE?

Consult your veterinarian if a dose is missed.

SIDE EFFECTS & DRUG REACTIONS

Febendazole may result in these side effects:
* Diarrhea or loose stool
* Loss of appetite
* Lethargy
 
Febendazole may react with these drugs:
* Praziquantel
* Dexamethasone
 
USE CAUTION WHEN ADMINISTERING THIS DRUG TO PETS WITH LIVER DISEASE

DO NOT GIVE FEBENDAZOLE TO PREGNANT OR LACTATING PETS

This drug is safe to use in pets over 6 weeks of age.
Written by: PetsMD Veterinary Editorial Staff