Praziquantel and epsiprantel are closely related analogues that have high efficacy against cestode parasites at relatively low dose rates but no effect on nematodes.
Praziquantel PO is highly effective against cestodes of ruminants (eg, Moniezia spp, Stilesia), horses (Anoplocephala perfoliata), dogs, cats, and poultry. The PO (5 mg/kg), SC (5.8 mg/kg), or spot-on (cats, 12 mg/kg) administration of praziquantel in dogs and cats is 100% effective against Dipylidium caninum, Taenia spp, and Echinococcus spp (both adult and immature forms). Praziquantel at a dosage of 40 mg/kg is also effective against Schistosoma infections in cattle (and people).
Epsiprantel (2.75–5.5 mg/kg, PO, once) is used specifically to treat the common tapeworms of dogs and cats, including adult E granulosus.
