Ensuring your feline and canine companions are free from intestinal parasites is a crucial aspect of their overall health and well-being. Drontal® and Drontal® Plus are veterinary-prescribed deworming medications designed to effectively treat and prevent a range of common intestinal worms in both cats and dogs. This guide delves into what these medications are, how they work, their specific uses for different species, and essential considerations for their administration.
Understanding Drontal® and Drontal® Plus
Drontal® and Drontal® Plus are FDA-approved veterinary medications whose active ingredients, praziquantel and pyrantel pamoate, work synergistically to combat intestinal parasites. Drontal® is specifically formulated for cats and kittens, while Drontal® Plus is tailored for dogs and puppies. These medications are available in various forms, including oral tablets and chews, and are also found in combination products for broader parasite prevention.
Drontal® for Cats
This broad-spectrum dewormer is indicated for cats and kittens aged 8 weeks and older, weighing over two pounds. Drontal® effectively treats common feline intestinal parasites such as tapeworms, hookworms, and roundworms.
Drontal® Plus for Dogs
Drontal® Plus is designed for dogs and puppies over 3 weeks of age and weighing more than 2 pounds. It addresses a wider array of parasites, including multiple species of tapeworms, hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms. It’s important to note that tapeworms are often transmitted by fleas, highlighting the importance of consistent flea prevention to avoid reinfection.
Important Considerations for Use
Drontal® should not be administered to kittens younger than 8 weeks or those weighing less than two pounds.
Drontal® Plus is not suitable for puppies under 3 weeks of age or weighing less than two pounds. Additionally, it should not be used in pregnant dogs, as it may pose risks to the fetus.
How Drontal® and Drontal® Plus Combat Parasites
The primary active ingredients, praziquantel and pyrantel pamoate, target intestinal worms through different mechanisms. Praziquantel is believed to disrupt the worms’ muscle integrity, leading to paralysis and detachment from the intestinal wall. Pyrantel pamoate also paralyzes the worms by affecting their nervous system. Once paralyzed, the worms are either destroyed by the pet’s immune system or passed out in the feces.
Drontal® Plus includes an additional ingredient, febantel, which is converted into fenbendazole within the dog’s system. Fenbendazole works by inhibiting the worms’ ability to produce energy, effectively starving and killing them, which provides coverage against whipworms.
Drontal® Plus is also available in a “Taste Tab” formulation, offering a more palatable option for dogs that are resistant to taking traditional pills.
Administration Guidelines for Drontal® and Drontal® Plus
Administer Drontal® and Drontal® Plus according to your veterinarian’s instructions or the directions provided on the drug label. These medications are typically given as a single dose to treat existing intestinal parasite infections and can be administered with or without food.
Missed Dose Protocol
As these medications are usually given as a one-time treatment, a missed dose is generally not a concern. However, if your veterinarian has prescribed a periodic deworming schedule, consult them for guidance on what to do if a dose is missed. Avoid giving double doses unless specifically instructed by your veterinarian.
Potential Side Effects and Overdose Information
Drontal® and Drontal® Plus are generally well-tolerated by both cats and dogs. However, as with any medication, there is a possibility of side effects, though they are rare. These may include diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, drooling, or decreased appetite.
Human Safety
This medication is intended for animal use only. In case of accidental human ingestion, contact a physician or the national Poison Control Center hotline immediately. Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling pet medications.
Monitoring and Veterinary Consultation
Routine monitoring is usually not required for this medication. However, veterinarians often perform annual fecal tests to screen for parasites. Your veterinarian may recommend additional monitoring based on your pet’s specific health needs.
Contact your veterinarian immediately if you observe severe side effects, if your pet’s condition does not improve, or if you suspect an overdose.
Overdose Symptoms
Vomiting and diarrhea are the most common signs of an overdose. Other potential symptoms include drooling, lethargy, muscle tremors, and seizures. If an overdose is suspected, seek emergency veterinary care immediately and contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center.
Storage Instructions
Drontal® should be stored at room temperature, typically between 68°F and 77°F (20°C to 25°C), with brief excursions between 59°F and 86°F (15°C to 30°C) acceptable. Drontal® Plus tablets should be kept at controlled room temperatures between 59°F and 86°F (15°C to 30°C). Drontal® Plus Taste Tabs require storage below 77°F (25°C).
Always keep the container tightly closed to protect the medication from moisture and light. Store out of reach of children and pets.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drontal®
Do I need a prescription for Drontal®?
Yes, both Drontal® and Drontal® Plus are prescription-only medications. A veterinarian must confirm the presence of susceptible intestinal parasites through laboratory fecal testing before prescribing these dewormers.
Can Drontal® Plus for Dogs be given to cats?
No, Drontal® Plus is strictly for canine use. While Drontal® and Drontal® Plus share common active ingredients, they are formulated and dosed specifically for the target species. Using dog medication in cats, or vice versa, can lead to ineffective treatment or serious adverse reactions, including overdose. Drontal® is the appropriate product for cats.
This content was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals. It should not replace professional veterinary advice. No compensation was received from the manufacturer for creating this content.
