Droncit

What is Droncit?

Droncit (praziquantel) is used to treat tapeworms in dogs and cats. Droncit requires a prescription, and is sold per tablet.

For:

Cats (over 6 weeks of age), Dogs (over 4 weeks of age)

Benefits:

• Single-dose formula makes for easy oral administration
• Tablets can be crumbled and mixed with food

How it Works:

Praziquantel is a cestocide. Praziquantel works by damaging the parasite's skin internally so the parasite disintegrates and is removed by the pet's immune system.

Cautions:

Side effects, while rare, may include vomiting, loss of appetite, drowsiness, or diarrhea in dogs and increased salivation in cats. Since humans can contract tapeworm from animals, it's important to maintain good personal hygiene. It's also important to eliminate fleas on your pet.

Brand Name:

Droncit Canine Cestocide Tablets (Bayer), Droncit Feline Cestocide Tablets (Bayer), Tape Worm Tabs Canine (Tradewinds), Tape Worm Tabs Feline (Tradewinds)

Generic Name:

Praziquantel (pra-zee-kwan'-tell)

What is Droncit:

Droncit is an anthelminthic (dewormer) used to treat tapeworm (cestode) infestations.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Droncit to my pet:

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has ever had an allergic reaction to the medication. Tapeworm is a zoonotic infection meaning humans can contract tapeworm from animals. Discuss the importance of maintaining good personal hygiene.

What is the most important information I should know about Droncit:

Droncit Canine is a prescription medication FDA approved for use in dogs as 34mg tablets. Droncit Feline is a prescription medication FDA approved for use in cats as 23mg tablets. The usual dose of Droncit Canine for dogs and puppies at least 4 weeks old is up to 5 lbs give 1/2 tablet, 6-10 lbs give 1 tablet, 11-15 lbs give 1 and ½ tablets, 16-30 lbs give 2 tablets, 31-45 lbs give 3 tablets, 46-60 lbs give 4 tablets, and over 60 lbs give 5 tablets maximum. The usual dose of Droncit Feline for cats and kittens at least 6 weeks old is up to 4 lbs give 1/4 tablet, 5-11 lbs give 1 tablet, over 11 lbs give 1 and 1/2 tablets. For dogs and cats, the tablets are given as a single dose. The tablets may be crumbled and mixed with food.

How should this medication be given:

Give Droncit exactly as directed by the veterinarian. If you do not understand the directions ask the pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. Droncit is given as a single dose. The tablets can be crumbled and added to food. Store Droncit at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

What happens if I miss giving a dose:

Droncit tablets are given as a single dose.

What should I avoid while giving Droncit to my pet:

Because humans can contract tapeworm from animals, it is important to maintain good personal hygiene. It is also important to eliminate fleas on the pet and in the household and to not feed the pet rodents or uncooked meat or fish. To prevent reinfection, daily cleanup of stools is recommended.

What are the possible side effects of Droncit:

Side effects of Droncit are rare but may include vomiting, loss of appetite, drowsiness, or diarrhea in dogs and increased salivation and diarrhea in cats. Other side effects may also occur. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to the animal.

What other drugs will affect Droncit:

Do not give Droncit to your pet if already giving an alternate tapeworm medication unless directed to by your veterinarian.