Brand Name: Panacur

Available in oral suspension and granules 

Background

The care of animals has always included managing internal parasites. As technology has progressed, the new medications have become broader in the spectrum of parasites they can eradicate. Fenbendazole is a member of the benzimidazole group of anti-parasite medications, which makes it a relatively broad-spectrum product. 

How this Medication is Used

Fenbendazole (often abbreviated FBZ) is used in both large and small animals. In dogs, it is useful against roundworms, hookworms, and the more difficult-to-treat whipworms. It is effective against the Taenia species of tapeworm but not against the common tapeworm, Dipylidium caninum. It is also effective against Giardia (an intestinal protozoan that causes diarrhea) as well as several species of lungworm and even some flukes.

When a pet has chronic diarrhea and a cause cannot be found through testing, it is common to give fenbendazole for several days in a row as a general broad-spectrum dewormer; the idea is that most parasites of significance will be removed by it even if they escaped detection in testing. 

Fenbendazole is considered safe for use in pregnancy.

Side Effects 

Some animals vomit or have nausea after deworming.  

Interactions with Other Drugs 

There are no significant drug interactions in small animal use. 

Concerns and Cautions 

Fenbendazole is considered safe for use in pregnancy in all species. 

Treatment is necessary for 3-5 consecutive days for most parasites. Treatment may require a second course, depending on which parasite is being treated.

If a treatment is skipped, inform your veterinarian, as the treatment course may need to be repeated. This goes especially for accidental omission of the follow-up course.

Give fenbendazole with food for the best absorption into the body.