Review of the drug Prazitel for cats and kittens: instructions for use, reviews

Description of the drug Prazitel

Prazitel is a combined anthelmintic that is used in veterinary medicine for the prevention and treatment of helminthiasis in cats and dogs. Trade names of the drug are Prazitel suspension or Prazitel tabulettae. The generic name for the anthelmintic is praziquantel and pyrantel pamoate.

Prazitel is a domestic anthelmintic drug

The developer of the Prasitela formula is SKiFF LLC (Moscow), a (Moscow).

Release form

Prazitel is available in two dosage forms:

• suspension for oral use;
• tablets (“For cats” and “For kittens and puppies”).

The suspension is a light yellow solution (sometimes with a cream tint). The drug is bottled in 5, 10 or 15 ml in dark glass containers or in tamper evident plastic containers. The medicine in any container is packaged in a cardboard box with instructions and stickers. And in the box with a glass bottle there is also a syringe.

The veterinary pharmacy can offer you Prasitel in two packaging options. The old style box is predominantly red. And the new packaging is painted white, but the inscriptions on it are red and blue. You can buy any of the options, the main thing is to make sure that the drug is suitable (the series and release date, as well as the expiration date are indicated on the top of the package).

Prazitel suspension is available in packages of two colors

Prazitel tablets are greenish-yellow in color. On one side there is a risk tablet, on the other there is the “PR” logo. Prazitel is packaged in 2, 4, 6, 8 or 10 tablets in metallized blisters or in laminated paper packaging without cells. Any of these forms are packaged in cardboard envelopes along with instructions.

Medicines for cats are often sold in envelopes. There is a kind of fastener on the back of such a pack, but the thin cardboard wears out quickly, especially if the first aid kit is used frequently. In such cases, I throw away the envelope and mark the blister with a sticker (there’s a reason they put them there). I write the expiration date on the sticker (it’s convenient to write with a permanent gel pen - it’s not even afraid of water). I don’t throw away the instructions even when the medicine runs out (I have a special notebook for instructions).

Prazitel blisters always contain an even number of tablets

Composition of the medicine

1 ml of suspension contains:

• praziquantel - 3 mg;
• pyrantel pamoate - 30 mg.

Prazitel tablets for cats (0.32 g each) contain the following substances:

• praziquantel - 20.0 mg (active ingredient);
• pyrantel pamoate - 200.0 mg (active ingredient);
• potato starch - 10.0 mg;
• lactose - 80.0 mg;
• croscarmellose sodium - 6.0 mg;
• calcium stearate – 3.1 mg;
• gelatin - 0.9 mg.

And the composition of tablets for kittens and puppies includes:

• praziquantel - 5.0 mg (active ingredient);
• pyrantel pamoate - 50.0 mg (active ingredient);
• potato starch - 11.7 mg;
• lactose - 30.0 mg;
• croscarmellose sodium - 2.0 mg;
• calcium stearate – 1.0 mg;
• gelatin - 0.3 mg.

Prazitel tablets “For cats” and “For kittens and puppies” differ in the concentration of active ingredients

Storage conditions for anthelmintics

Prazitel in any form of release must be stored under the following conditions:

• in sealed manufacturer's packaging;
• in a dry place, protected from direct sunlight;
• separately from food and feed;
• at temperatures from 0°C to 25°C;
• in places inaccessible to children;
• The shelf life of the suspension is 2 years from the date of production, tablets are 3 years from the date of production.

After the expiration date, as well as if storage conditions are violated, the drug must be disposed of with household waste. For a suspension, separation is considered normal (it quickly disappears when shaken).

The suspension may separate into a clear liquid and a cloudy sediment.

Composition and release form

The following substances have a harmful effect on internal parasites:

• praziquantel;
• pyrantel pamoate;
• fenbendazole

The drug is available in several forms. This allows you to choose the most convenient option for your pet depending on its age and weight.

Suspension

The suspension is available in two versions (differing in composition and purpose), so it can be used effectively and conveniently for pets of various sizes.

To ensure that the drug is safe for puppies, it is made without fenbendazole. 1 ml of light yellow or cream liquid contains 3 mg of praziquantel and 30 mg of pyrantel pamoate. The concentration of active substances in the suspension intended for large pets is much higher. The amount of praziquantel was increased to 50 mg, and pyrantel pamoate - to 140 mg. In addition, the composition includes fenbendazole (100 mg). In addition, the medicine contains sweeteners, purified water and other excipients.

In both cases, the suspension is packaged in glass or polymer bottles. It is required to be equipped with a dispenser in the form of a syringe, which greatly simplifies measuring the required dose.

Pills

Like the suspension, tablets are available in two versions:

1. Prazitel Plus can be used for dogs of different weights and ages (from 2 weeks). The concentration of active substances in one tablet is 50 mg of praziquantel, 100 mg of fenbendazole and 140 mg of pyrantel pamoate. Excipients include milk sugar, starch, gelatin and other components.
2. Prazitel for cats and puppies is more gentle and therefore recommended for small pets. One pill contains 5 mg of praziquetel and 50 mg of pyrantel pamoate. The excipients are the same as in the drug more often used for adults.

Tablets are packaged in packages of 2 to 10 pieces. Be sure to come with instructions for use.

Indications for use

Prazitel is prescribed for the following types of helminthic infestations:

• toxocariasis;
• toxascariasis;
• uncinariasis;
• hookworm;
• trichocephalosis;
• taeniasis;
• dipylidiasis;
• echinococcosis;
• diphyllobothriasis;
• mesocestoidosis.

also indicated for the treatment and prevention of mixed nematodocestodes at any stage of invasion. But even if you are sure that your cat has one of these diseases, you still need to consult a veterinarian.

Analogues of the drug

If an animal exhibits severe side effects or is individually intolerant to Prazitel, it is necessary to replace the medication with a drug similar in composition or principle of action. To do this, the cat needs to be shown to a veterinarian. Effective analogues with identical composition:

• "Prazel";
• "Prasitab";
• "Prasicide";
• "Prasitabs";
• "Parasite."

Also suitable for replacement are the drugs “Praziquantel” for cats, “Drontal”, “Azinox”, “Kaniquantel”, “Milbemax”. These medications contain additional antiparasitic components. One such drug, Prazitel Plus, includes fenbendazole and is used as an anthelmintic for dogs and puppies. The drugs are also available in the form of tablets or suspensions, and they should be used in the same way as Prazitel.

How the drug works

The mechanism of action of Prazitel is due to the presence of active substances in its composition. Praziquantel and parantel have a complex effect on helminth cells, as a result of which their muscle work and energy metabolism are disrupted. This leads to paralysis and death of the parasite, and it is subsequently eliminated from the cat’s body.

Praziquantel is absorbed through the intestinal wall and distributed to all organs and tissues, and is excreted in the urine. Pyrantel penetrates the intestinal wall only partially and is excreted mainly in the feces. The drug elimination time is 1–2 days.

Advantages of the drug

Prazitel for cats has gained wide popularity in veterinary practice due to its long-term use. Among the advantages:

• suspension and tablets are characterized by low toxicity;
• due to the variety of release forms, they are easy to use and measure the dosage;
• lack of taste in Prasitel tablets and suspensions for cats and kittens;
• availability. The product is available in almost all veterinary pharmacies;
• high efficiency, even after a single use;
• a composition that ensures the destruction of a wide range of parasites and the rapid removal of worms from the body.

Features of application

Both tablets and suspension must be given orally. Important: a diet is not required before using an anthelmintic. There is also no need to use laxatives. It is recommended to give the medicine in the morning so that the parasites die and leave the cat's gastrointestinal tract during the day.

Prazitel is recommended for use in the morning feeding

Tablets: dosage selection and treatment regimen

To treat helminthic infestations, Prazitel tablets are used only once. The dosage is determined based on the weight of the animal and the modification of the tablets:

• “Prazitel for cats” - 1 tablet per 4 kg of body weight;
• “Prazitel for kittens and puppies” - 1 tablet per 1 kg of body weight.

If the use of the medicine does not help, the procedure can be repeated after 10 days. To prevent helminthiases, tablets should be used once a quarter (or 10 days before vaccination).

How to give a pill to a cat

The tablet can be given to an animal in several ways:

• chop and mix with water, minced meat or food;
• using a tablet dispenser (this is a device that works on the principle of a syringe);
• forced (force the cat to swallow the medicine).

From my own experience, I can say that mixing medicine with food does not always help. For example, one of my cats can sense if food smells like something foreign. I use the tablet dispenser only when treating kittens (the older cat runs away from unfamiliar objects). For her, the ideal option is forced enforcement. Of course, you cannot coax, scream or hit a cat. You need to put the tablet on the root of the tongue so that the cat has to swallow it reflexively. Sticking the pill in with your finger is also not an option. You need to hold the cat, tilt its head back, unclench its jaws with one hand, and lower the tablet with the other (if the cat’s head is positioned correctly, it will fall into the right place).

The tablet will fall on the root of the tongue if it is lowered vertically towards the pharynx

Suspension: dosage selection and treatment regimen

The suspension is also used once. A single dose can be given to the cat with food or forcefully. To do this, you need to use a dosing syringe (1 ml per 1 kg of body weight). If an anthelmintic is used for prophylactic purposes, then this should be done once every 3 months.

Can it be used in pregnant cats and kittens?

Kittens can be dewormed no earlier than three weeks of age. Prevention of worms should be carried out no more than once a quarter.

Prazitel can also be used in pregnant cats, but only in the second half of pregnancy. Lactating cats are dewormed 20 days after birth. In this case, you need to be extremely careful (it is recommended to use the medicine under the supervision of a veterinarian).

I had to deworm a pregnant cat. This was her first pregnancy, and I was very worried about the expectant mother. We went to the veterinarian in the morning, and took with us the medicine we had purchased in advance. The veterinarian said that we could do everything at home, and just in case, he gave us a business card with his phone number. If something went wrong, he could be called. In our case, the help of a veterinarian was not required; deworming was successful.

Prazitel can be used in kittens older than 3 weeks, pregnant cats in the second half of pregnancy and lactating females

What to do in case of overdose

In general, no cases of overdose with Prazitel have been established. But if you incorrectly calculate the dosage or make a mistake when choosing a drug, then the therapeutic dose of the drug may be exceeded. Characteristic symptoms of overdose:

• nausea, vomiting;
• lethargy, weakness;
• changed behavior;
• fainting;
• foam at mouth;
• limb spasms, etc.

In such cases, you should immediately contact a veterinarian.

Personal safety measures when in contact with the drug

When working with the anthelmintic Prazitel, you must follow the general rules:

• Before starting and after finishing work, you should thoroughly wash your hands with warm water and soap;
• When working with the drug, you can use personal protective equipment;
• in case of accidental contact of the drug with the skin or mucous membranes of the eyes, they must be rinsed with plenty of water;
• people with hypersensitivity to the components of the drug should avoid direct contact with the suspension;
• in case of allergic reactions or if the drug accidentally enters the human body, you should immediately contact a medical facility (take the instructions for use or label with you);
• Empty medicine packages must not be used for household purposes; they must be disposed of with household waste.

If you are allergic to medications, you can wear medical gloves on your hands when working with Prazitel

Instructions for use

Pills

You can give the tablet to your cat in the following ways:

• Forcefully open the pet's mouth and place it on the base of the tongue. In this case, the cat’s swallowing reflex will work, and he will be able to successfully swallow the tablet. Don’t forget to also pour some warm water into your mouth from a syringe without a needle, then the tablet will pass through the esophagus without any problems.
• Crush with a teaspoon, and then add the powder to your pet’s food. It would be better if it was minced meat or canned cat food. This trick won't work with dry food. It is advisable to prepare such a portion of food that your fluffy eats it in one go to the bowl.

Prazitel

Suspension

If your pet refuses to eat or does not deign to consume the suspension, then it can be injected using a syringe. You will definitely need an assistant to hold the cat during the procedure. The volume of the suspension is calculated from the ratio of 1 ml to 1 kg of fluffy body weight.

Possible side effects and contraindications

There were no side effects from the use of Prazitel. In some cases, the animal may experience increased drooling, but this resolves quickly and does not require any intervention.

Prazitel should not be used:

• exhausted and sick animals with infectious diseases;
• pregnant cats in the first half of pregnancy;
• lactating cats in the first three weeks after birth;
• kittens under three weeks of age;
• animals with individual intolerance to the components of the drug.

Hypersensitivity to praziquantel or pyrantel is detected only after using the medicine; it is impossible to know about it in advance. In such cases, you can contact your veterinarian to prescribe an antihistamine. And for subsequent dewormings, you need to select a drug with other active ingredients.

Contraindications

Considering that part of the potent drug is absorbed into the blood and distributed throughout the pet’s body, its use has limitations. Contraindications include pregnancy in the first 4-5 weeks. In the second half of gestation, feeding Prazitel is allowed.

For lactating females, the drug against parasites is prohibited for three weeks after birth. After this time, the anthelmintic can be given to a lactating cat after consultation with a veterinarian. The instructions for use also prohibit the use of tablets and suspension for kittens less than three weeks old.

Analogues of the drug

Analogs of Prazitel include complex anthelmintics:

• Drontal;
• Dirofen Plus (Dirophen Plus);
• Caniquantel Plus;
• Azinox;
• Milbemax tablets for cats;
• Prazicid-suspension Plus.

Comparative table: analogues of Prazitel

Photo gallery: analogues of the drug Prazitel

Drontal is considered one of the most effective anthelmintics

Kanikvantel and Prazitel are similar in principle of action

Milbemax is one of the most expensive anthelmintic drugs, but you can buy it in almost any pet pharmacy

Dirofen is sold in different modifications (for kittens, as well as cats and small dogs)

Azinox is a fairly economical drug, inexpensive, and the package includes as many as 6 tablets

Prazicide in the form of a suspension is as convenient to use as Prazitel

Side effects and overdose

According to GOST 12.1.007-76, the drug Prazitel is characterized as a moderately dangerous agent belonging to hazard class 3. If the classic dose is observed, the product does not cause teratogenic, mutagenic, sensitizing, embryo- and immunotoxic effects in cats. Clinical trials of the drug confirm the absence of significant side effects. In cases of overdose or individual sensitivity to an anthelmintic, the pet may experience some unpleasant symptoms:

• weakness;
• loss of appetite;
• nausea;
• vomit;
• salivation;
• convulsions.

When feeding Prazitel to a kitten, especially for the first time, it is recommended to be especially careful. If you notice a change in your health, you should contact a veterinarian

Prazitel special suspension

Designed for cats and dogs over 6 years old. The concentration of active ingredients is the same as in Prazitel suspension. Active ingredients: R-praziquantel, pyrantel, milk thistle extract. The drug is manufactured in several modifications with different bottle volumes and unequal concentrations of active components. Details in the table:

The cost of a bottle for animals less than 5 kg in August 2021 was 190 rubles.

The drug for cats and dogs weighing up to 5 kg is injected into the mouth with a syringe without a needle in an amount of 1 ml/kg. For dogs weighing more than 5 kg, dose 1 ml/5 kg.

For the purpose of prevention, animals are dewormed quarterly. In case of high infestation, the treatment is repeated after 10 days.

Females should not be treated in the first month after mating, as well as nursing mothers in the first 3 weeks of lactation. After opening, the bottle is stored in the refrigerator until repeated deworming after 10 days.

basic information

This drug can be purchased in the form of a suspension and tablets, it is used for the prevention and treatment of common parasitic diseases:

• diphyllobothriasis;
• mesocestoidosis;
• toxascariasis;
• echinococcosis;
• uncinariasis;
• hookworm.

© shutterstock

The drug is dosed as follows: 1 tablet per 4 kg of weight or 1 ml of suspension per 1 kg of weight. There is also a Prazitel suspension for cats on sale, marked “special”, which is used to treat old animals. In addition, this drug is produced in the form of tablets specifically for kittens and puppies.

Before giving the suspension to a cat, it would be a good idea to consult with a veterinarian to choose the correct dosage depending on the pet’s condition and the degree of parasite damage.