# Praziquantel for Animals: Mechanism, Doses by Species & Brands

> Praziquantel is an anthelmintic against tapeworms whose action is related to calcium-channel disruption, causing paralysis and death of the tapeworm. With milbemycin oxime (as Milpro) it is given to dogs once by…

- Source page: https://wevet.in/active-ingredients/praziquantel/
- Type: Active ingredient
- Publisher: WeVet
- Updated: 2026-11-02
- Medically reviewed by: Dr. Ravi Baraiya, B.V.Sc. (2026-11-02)
- Audience: veterinarians and veterinary students

Praziquantel is an anthelmintic against tapeworms whose action is related to calcium-channel disruption, causing paralysis and death of the tapeworm [2]. With milbemycin oxime (as Milpro) it is given to dogs once by mouth at a minimum of 5 mg/kg [1].

- Class: Isoquinoline anthelmintic (tapeworms)
- Brands: Milpro

## Dose by species

| Species | Use | Dose | Route | How often | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dogs | Tapeworms (with milbemycin oxime, as Milpro) (Minimum dose in the UK Milpro SPC.) | 5 mg/kg [1] | PO | Single dose | Label |

## Uses

- Dogs: tapeworms, combined with milbemycin oxime in Milpro [1].

## Mechanism of action

Praziquantel modifies the permeability of the parasite membranes for calcium (influx of Ca2+), causing contraction of the parasite musculature [1][2]. Paralysis results, leading to tapeworm death [2].

## Safety

- Do not use in cases of hypersensitivity to the active substances or to any of the excipients (Milpro UK SPC) [1].


## Frequently asked questions

### What is the praziquantel dose for dogs?

The UK Milpro SPC gives a minimum of 5 mg/kg praziquantel (with 0.5 mg/kg milbemycin oxime) once by mouth [1].

## References

[1] Milpro 2.5 mg/25 mg Film-coated Tablets for Small Dogs and Puppies — Summary of Product Characteristics — Veterinary Medicines Directorate (UK) — Virbac (2025). https://www.vmd.defra.gov.uk/ProductInformationdatabase/files/SPC_Documents/SPC_2928669.PDF
[2] Pharmacodynamics: Mechanisms of Anthelmintic Action in Animals — Merck Veterinary Manual (2025). https://www.merckvetmanual.com/pharmacology/anthelmintics/pharmacodynamics-mechanisms-of-anthelmintic-action-in-animals

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Numbers in [brackets] cite the references above. For veterinary professionals. Information supports — never replaces — clinical judgement; always check the current product label and local regulations.
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