Epsiprantel (Rx)

TRADE NAMES:

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Epsiprantel is an oral anthelmintic (dewormer) used to kill tapeworms in dogs and cats. This medication kills the types of tapeworms your pet may contract from fleas or rodents. Tablets may be crumbled or mixed in the food. Fasting is not necessary. Four different strengths of film-coated tablets are available.

WHAT IS THIS PRODUCT?

• An anthelmintic (dewormer) for dogs and cats
• Given by mouth

REASONS FOR PRESCRIBING:

• To kill the common tapeworm (2 types) in dogs and cats

WHAT DOGS/CATS SHOULD NOT TAKE THIS MEDICATION?

• Use with caution in pregnant and nursing dogs and cats
• Puppies and kittens less than 7 weeks of age
• If your pet has had an allergic reaction to epsiprantel or like products before

Read and follow the label carefully.
Fasting is not necessary prior nor recommended.
Tablets may be given with or without food.
Ensure that your pet swallows all of the medication.
A single treatment should be sufficient, but pets will need another dose if re-infected. Re-infection will occur if there is a heavy, uncontrolled flea problem or if your pet eats mice or rabbits.
Tapeworms are always acquired by ingesting an infected intermediate host (flea, dog louse, rabbit, rodent, uncooked beef/lamb/pork/venison/fish/wild animals).
Ensure that fleas are eliminated from your pet’s environment and do not allow your pet to eat uncooked meat/fish.
To maximize the benefit of deworming, it is best to treat all animals in the environment. Periodic fecal exams are recommended to monitor effectiveness and re-exposure to parasites.
Some intestinal parasites can infect humans. Strict hygienic precautions should be observed when handling infected pets and their feces. Consult your veterinarian or family doctor to discuss how to prevent human infection and re-infection of your pet.

WHAT IF A DOSE IS MISSED?

Epsiprantel is given as a single dose.

STORAGE AND WARNINGS:

• Store in a tight, light resistant, childproof container in a cool, dry place at room temperature away from heat and direct sunlight.
• Not for human use. Keep this and all medication out of reach of children and pets.
• Call your physician immediately if you accidentally take this product.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS:

• Side effects are rare, but at high doses, vomiting or diarrhea may occur
• If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian

CAN THIS DRUG BE GIVEN WITH OTHER DRUGS?

• Yes, there are no known drug interactions, but if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when taking multiple medications, contact your veterinarian

OVERDOSING?

Contact your veterinarian immediately if pet receives more than the prescribed amount.

WHAT TO TELL/ASK VETERINARIAN BEFORE GIVING THIS MEDICATION?

Talk to your veterinarian about:

• When your pet will need to be rechecked
• What tests may need to be performed prior to and during treatment with this drug
• What are the risks and benefits of using this drug

Tell your veterinarian about:

• If your pet has experienced side-effects on other drugs/products
• If your pet has experienced digestive upset now or ever
• If your pet has experienced any other medical problems or allergies now or ever
• If your pet is pregnant or nursing or if you plan to breed your pet

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW?

Notify your veterinarian if your animal's condition does not improve or worsens despite this treatment.

As with all prescribed medicines, epsiprantel should only be given to the pet for which it was prescribed. It should be given only for the condition for which it was prescribed.

This is just a summary of information about epsiprantel. If you have any questions or concerns about epsiprantel or the condition it was prescribed for, contact you