Regular treatment for worms costs a pretty penny, especially if the dog is large. In search of a cheap, effective and safe remedy, owners often pay attention to the Russian-made anthelmintic - Dirofen. It is considered one of the best drugs against helminths. But can such an inexpensive remedy be effective?
In the review, I looked at how well Dirofen works for dogs, the features of the action and use of various forms of the medication, and indicated possible complications.
At the end of the article you will find a list of analogues, reviews from owners and conclusions from a veterinarian.
Rating: The best deworming medications for dogs
Release form and composition
The drug Dirofen is produced in Russia (until 2018 it was called “Api-San”). It is produced in 3 forms: tablets, paste and suspension.
| Dosage form | Dirofen Plus (6 tablets per pack) | Paste (10 ml bottle) | Suspension (10 ml bottle) | ||||
| Active ingredients | For puppies (120 mg) | For small and medium breed dogs (200 mg) | For large breeds (1,000 mg) | No. 20 for puppies | No. 60 for adult dogs | No. 20 for puppies | No. 60 for adult dogs |
| Febantel | 15 mg (in 1 tablet) | 75 mg (in 1 tablet) | 300 mg (in 1 tablet) | — | — | — | — |
| Praziquantel | 5 mg (in 1 tablet) | 25 mg (in 1 tablet) | 100 mg (in 1 tablet) | 5 mg in 1 ml | 15 mg in 1 ml | 5 mg in 1 ml | 15 mg in 1 ml |
| Pirantel | 15 mg (in 1 tablet) | 75 mg (in 1 tablet) | 300 mg (in 1 tablet) | 15 mg in 1 ml | 45 mg in 1 ml | 15 mg in 1 ml | 45 mg in 1 ml |
| Pumpkin oil | — | — | — | 5 mg in 1 ml | 5 mg in 1 ml | 5 mg in 1 ml | 20 mg in 1 ml |
| average cost | 125 rub. | 145 rub. | 360 rub. | 175 rub. in 1 ml | 200 rub. | 190 rub. | 210 rub. |
How it works
Dirofen is a complex anthelmintic drug with a wide spectrum of action. It works against mature and larval forms of tapeworms and roundworms: it causes paralysis and death, after which the helminths are excreted in the feces.
The effectiveness of the drug is due to the combination of active substances:
- Pyrantela pamoata. Blocks nerve impulses, which causes paralysis of the nematode muscular system. Poorly absorbed in the intestines: this ensures a long-lasting effect of the component. It is excreted almost unchanged (93%) along with feces.
- Praziquantel. Increases the permeability of cell membranes to calcium ions in gastrointestinal cestodes. As a result, the parasites die and are eliminated from the dog’s body. The substance is absorbed into the blood within 1-3 hours, metabolized in the liver and excreted within 24 hours along with urine (80%).
- Febantel (contained only in tablets). It disrupts the absorption of glucose and the synthesis of the tubulin protein, subsequently destroying the microtubular apparatus of helminth cells and causing their death. Absorbed in the intestines and metabolized by the liver, it is excreted from the body partly in unchanged form, partly in the form of metabolites.
Dirofen tablets for kittens and puppies 6 tablets 120 mg each
DESCRIPTION
Dirofen tablets (Dirophen tabulettae) are tablets for oral use for deworming for kittens and puppies. In appearance, the drug is a flat round tablet of light yellow color, with two perpendicularly located dividing grooves on one side. The company logo (AS) may be imprinted on the other side of the tablet.
COMPOUND
In 1 tablet the active ingredients are febantel 15 mg, pyrantel pamoate 15 mg, praziquantel 5 mg and excipients lactose, calcium stearate, colloidal silicon dioxide, talc, microcrystalline cellulose.
PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES
Dirofen tablets belong to combined anthelmintic drugs.
The combination of praziquantel, febantel and pyrantel pamoate, which are part of the drug, provides a wide spectrum of its anthelmintic effect on all phases of development of round and tape helminths parasitizing the gastrointestinal tract of dogs and cats, including Toxocara canis, Toxocara shystax, Toxascaris leonina, Uncinaria stenocephala, Trichuris vulpis, Ancylostosha caninshn, Echinococcus granulosus, Alveococcus multilocularis, Mesocestoides lineatus, Dipylidishn caninush, Diphyllobothriush latush, Multiceps shulticeps.
Pyrantel pamoate is a compound of the pyrimidine group, its mechanism of action is based on blocking the transmission of nerve impulses at neuromuscular synapses by depolarizing the membranes of muscle cells, which causes paralysis of the muscular system of nematodes; pyrantel is poorly absorbed, which ensures its prolonged effect on helminths in the intestines; excreted from the body mainly unchanged (93%) in feces.
Praziquantel, a compound of the pyrazinisoquinoline group, is active against gastrointestinal cestodes at all phases of development. By increasing the permeability of the parasite's cell membranes to calcium ions (Ca2+), it causes membrane depolarization, muscle contraction and tegument destruction, which leads to the death of helminths and promotes their elimination from the animal's body. The compound is rapidly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, reaching a maximum concentration in the blood plasma after 1-3 hours, reversibly binds to serum proteins (70-80%), is partially metabolized in the liver, re-excreted into the intestines, and excreted from the body mainly in the urine. (up to 80%) within 24 hours.
Febantel belongs to probenzimidazoles, which are biotransformed in the body into benzimidazoles. The mechanism of action of febantel is based on inhibition of the fumarate reductase enzyme in the mitochondria of helminths, as a result of which the absorption of glucose and the synthesis of the protein tubulin are disrupted, which leads to the destruction of the microtubular apparatus of the parasite cells, causing its death. Febantel is absorbed in the intestine, metabolized in the liver and excreted with bile into the intestinal lumen, where its repeated resorption is partially noted, and is excreted from the body both in unchanged form and in the form of several metabolites in feces and urine.
In terms of the degree of impact on the body, Dirofen tablets are classified as low-hazard substances (hazard class 4 according to GOST 12.1.007-76), in recommended doses they do not have embryotoxic, teratogenic or sensitizing effects, and are well tolerated by dogs and cats of different breeds and ages.
DOSAGE AND APPLICATION
Dirofen tablets are prescribed to kittens and puppies from 3 weeks of age for prophylactic and therapeutic purposes for nematodes (toxocariasis, toxascariasis, uncinariasis, trichuriasis, hookworm infection), cestodiasis (tenidosis, dipylidiasis, echinococcosis, diphyllobothriasis, mesocestoidosis) and associated nematodo-cestodiasis infestations x gastro- intestinal tract.
Dirofen® tablets for kittens and puppies - 1 tablet per 1 kg of animal weight.
Dirofen tablets are administered to animals individually, in the morning feeding with a small amount of food or treat. No preliminary fasting diet or use of laxatives is required.
For preventive purposes, deworming is carried out once, quarterly, and also before each vaccination.
For therapeutic purposes, as well as for the purpose of prevention in group (crowded) keeping of animals (kennels, shelters, vivariums), treatment is carried out: for nematodes - twice with an interval of 14 days; for cestodias and associated nematodo-cestodal infestations - twice with an interval of 14 days, once a day for 3 consecutive days.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS
In case of an overdose of the drug, the animal may experience a depressed state, refusal to feed, excessive salivation, and gastrointestinal upset. In these cases, general measures are used aimed at removing the drug from the body.
When using the drug for the first time in cats, self-limiting hypersalivation is possible.
Violations of the deworming regimen for animals should be avoided, as this may lead to a decrease in effectiveness. If the next deworming is missed, the drug must be administered as soon as possible in the same dose, then the interval between administrations of the drug does not change.
Dirofen tablets should not be used concomitantly with piperazine and cholinesterase inhibitors.
Dirofen tablets are not intended for use in productive animals.
For pregnant females, the drug is prescribed 3 weeks before the expected birth with caution, under the supervision of a veterinarian, for lactating females - 2-3 weeks after birth.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
A contraindication for use is individual intolerance to the components of the drug (including a history of). Dirofen tablets should not be used by females in the first half of pregnancy, exhausted animals, patients with infectious diseases or convalescent animals.
SIDE EFFECTS
When using Dirofen tablets in accordance with these instructions, side effects and complications in animals, as a rule, are not observed. Some animals may experience disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract (loose stools, vomiting) and increased salivation, which disappear spontaneously and do not require the use of medications.
SHELF LIFE AND STORAGE
The shelf life of the drug, subject to storage conditions, is 3 years from the date of production. Do not use Dirofen tablets after the expiration date.
Store Dirofen tablets in the manufacturer's sealed packaging, in a place protected from direct sunlight, separately from food and feed at a temperature of 0°C to 25°C.
PACKAGE
The drug is produced packaged in 6 tablets in strips of laminated paper and individually packaged in cardboard boxes, complete with instructions for use.
Instructions for use and dosage of Dirofen
Tablets, paste or suspension are given in the morning before feeding. The drug is mixed with a small amount of food or treat, or given by force: a capsule is placed on the root of the tongue or liquid agents are injected into the mouth from a dispenser syringe.
Features of the use of drugs differ depending on the chosen form and purpose.
So, for prevention, the dog is treated once every 3 months and before each vaccination. Any type of Dirofen is suitable for this. If your pet is infected, it is better to use tablets: the gel and solution are usually used once, and only in exceptional cases are they given again after 10 years.
Treatment regimen with Dirofen Plus:
- for nematodes - twice a day with a break of 2 weeks;
- for cestodias and combined nematodo-cestodal infestations, treat twice with an interval of 14 days: with each approach, the drug is given for 3 days in a row.
During treatment, you should not skip taking the drug. If this happens, therapy is resumed as quickly as possible in the same doses, and subsequently the dosage interval specified in the instructions is maintained.
The dosages of various types of anthelmintics are shown in the table:
| Release form | Dosages by weight |
| Dirofen tablets | |
| at 120 mg | 1 capsule per 1 kg |
| at 200 mg | 1 capsule per 5 kg |
| per 1,000 mg | 1 capsule per 20 kg |
| Suspension | |
| №20 | 1 ml per 1 kg |
| №60 | 1 ml per 3 kg |
| Paste | |
| №20 | 1 ml per 1 kg |
| №60 | 1 ml per 3 kg |
Contraindications and side effects
Dirofen is a low-hazard drug (hazard class 4 according to GOST 12.1.007-76). It is well tolerated by dogs of all ages, sizes and breeds. But it has a number of contraindications.
Thus, it is prohibited to give drugs to:
- exhausted animals;
- pets suffering from infectious diseases;
- dogs who have recently suffered serious illness or surgery;
- with hypersensitivity to the components of the medication;
- simultaneously with piperazine and cholinesterase inhibitors.
Possible negative reactions:
- depressed state;
- loss of appetite;
- excessive salivation (hypersalivation);
- disruption of the digestive tract: diarrhea, vomiting;
- allergic reactions.
Side effects often appear when doses are exceeded, but can also be observed when they are observed. If the animal reacts negatively to the drug, discontinue use and prescribe symptomatic therapy.
PERSONAL PREVENTION MEASURES:
When working with Dirofen suspension, you should follow the general rules of personal hygiene and safety precautions provided for when working with medications.
Smoking, drinking and eating are not allowed during work.
When finished, wash your hands with warm water and soap.
Empty drug bottles must not be used for household purposes; they must be disposed of with household waste.
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 Dirofen suspension.
If allergic reactions occur or if the drug accidentally enters the human body, you should immediately contact a medical facility (bring with you the instructions for use of the drug or the label).
Analogues of the drug
Dirofen has many analogues with similar or identical effects: from cheap to expensive. If this drug does not suit your dog, you can choose a similar drug.
| Analogue | What is the difference | Price |
| Milbemax | Contains milbemycin and praziquantel. Available in tablets in two forms: for puppies and small dogs; for large breeds. Do not use in dogs with liver or kidney problems, as well as collie, sheltie and bobtail breeds. | 340-520 rub. depending on dosage |
| Drontal | Contains the same active ingredients as Dirofen tablets, but in different concentrations. The effects of the drugs are similar, but Drontal also gets rid of Giardia. The capsules are flavored with a meat additive, so pets eat them with pleasure. | 370-600 rub. depending on dosage |
| Azinox | Another cheap drug made in Russia, from AVZ. The active ingredients are praziquantel and pyrantel. Prohibited for pregnant and lactating bitches (in the first 10 days after birth). | 110 rub. |
| Milprazone | Made on the basis of milbemycin and praziquantel. Available in two forms: for puppies and dogs up to 5 kg; for dogs weighing over 5 kg. Eliminates nematodes, cestodes and heartworms. It should not be given to kittens up to 2 weeks old and weighing less than 500 g. Used for pregnant bitches under the supervision of a veterinarian. | 300 rub. |
| Prazicide | It is produced in 3 forms - tablets, suspensions and drops on the withers: the latter, in addition to the anthelmintic effect, get rid of blood-sucking parasites. Helps against round and tapeworms. | 100-200 rub. depending on modification |
Content
1. Dirofen for dogs: pharmacological effects 2. Forms of release of anthelmintic drug for dogs 3. Dosage and methods of administration 4. Contraindications and side effects of Dirofen for dogs
The drug is suitable for use in adults or small puppies. The medicine consists of two pharmaceutical active ingredients, as well as additives that improve the taste of the medicine and reduce the harmful effects on the internal organs of the pet itself.
Dirofen for worms is available in the form of tablets, soft paste or suspension. The variety of forms of implementation allows you to choose the right medicine for convenient administration and simplifies the calculation of dosage for small breeds and very heavy dogs. The anthelmintic drug is effective against nematoses and cestoses and is used for combined infections. The ability to fight against roundworms and tapeworms at the same time makes it one of the most necessary drugs in the first aid kit of a caring dog owner.
Owner reviews
Irina: “I volunteer and often take Dirofen: it’s cheap and very effective. The very next day after the dacha, all the nasty stuff comes out of the storage. It’s convenient to feed: animals usually swallow the tablets themselves, only a few times I was particularly stubborn and crushed the tablet and mixed it with food.”
Polina: “At 2 months we had to vaccinate our Roxy, and first worm her. We chose Dirofen. After the first dacha, the puppy vomited. The next day and another 3 days later, worms began to come out. We decided to give the drug again to ensure that the worms were removed. They gave me a second pill: the child vomited again, and the parasites came in again. The third time they didn’t poison the dog with chemicals, instead they took a test: it was negative, and we were finally able to vaccinate.”
Zoya: “My husband became interested in hunting and brought home an assistant: a Russian spaniel puppy. A couple of days later I discovered worms on our bed! I ran to the veterinarian, the doctor recommended Dirofen. I gave the baby half the tablet. And after 4 hours something came out of it that the movie “Aliens” was taking a break! Now I understood why he ate poorly and his tummy was bloated. At night and for a couple more days, worms also came out of the dog, but in smaller numbers, and after that everything got better. I definitely recommend the drug."
Answers to frequently asked questions
At what age can Dirofen be given?
Any form of the drug, even types for puppies, is allowed to be used only from 3 weeks.
Can the product be used by pregnant and lactating dogs?
It is forbidden for puppy bitches to be given drugs in the first 2/3 of pregnancy. The drug, under the supervision of a veterinarian, is allowed to be used 3 weeks before the expected birth and 2-3 weeks after the appearance of the puppies.
How long does it take for the medication to work?
The drug begins to work 1-3 hours after administration. And the worms come out after 6-12 hours: they are usually noticed in the feces the day after the drug is given. You need to monitor the dog for 7-10 days, since during this entire period, helminths can be excreted along with feces.
The puppy needs to be vaccinated, but worms were noticed in the feces. How long to give the medicine, at what interval and when can you vaccinate?
When treating helminthic infestations, the drug is given twice with an interval of 10-14 days. This is necessary, since the product kills only adults and larvae, and does not affect eggs. Moreover, after the last dose there should be no helminths in the feces: it is better to get tested to know for sure. Otherwise, another processing is allowed.
Contraindications
- Individual intolerance to the components of the drug (including a history).
- Should not be used by debilitated animals, those suffering from infectious diseases, or convalescent animals.
- Should not be used by females in the first half of pregnancy, or by puppies under 3 weeks of age.
- For pregnant females, if necessary, the drug is prescribed 3 weeks before the expected birth with caution, under the supervision of a veterinarian, for lactating females - 2-3 weeks after birth.
Veterinarian's findings
Dirofen is a good anthelmintic drug.
According to studies, it has shown 100% effectiveness against cestodiasis and 92% against toxocariasis, hookworm and uncinariasis. The results of the experiment can be found at the link: https://en.apicenna.ru/news/opyt-primeneniya-dirofen-suspenzii-pri-gelmintozah-plotoyadnyh. Another advantage of the medication is that it can be given to collies, bobtails, shelties, related breeds and mixed breeds.
The side effects of the medications are standard. Most often, one-time vomiting or diarrhea occurs. This occurs because febantel and praziquantel are metabolized in the liver. To reduce negative reactions, in such cases I recommend giving any adsorbent: Polysorb, activated carbon, etc.
I often prescribe Dirofen because of its high effectiveness and low cost. I prefer tablets: they work better due to the content of febantel, which is not present in the paste or suspension. But with severe infestation, I choose Milbemax, Drontal or Milprazone: they are more effective. And the drug in question is mainly prescribed for the prevention of helminthic infestations.
If you have not yet decided on an anthelmintic, try Dirofen. It won't harm the dog. And if you are already using it, and it suits your pet, you should not change it for fear that such a cheap drug may not be effective: Russian drugs work no worse than expensive foreign analogues.
