Filaribits (diethylcarbamazine) is used daily for the prevention of heartworm disease and as an aid in the treatment of roundworms in dogs over 2 months old. It is available as 60mg and 180mg scored chewable tablets. The usual dose for heartworm prevention is 3mg/pound. It must not be used in dogs that are heartworm positive. Generic Name Diethylcarbamazine (dye-ethel?car-bam?-a-zeen) Brand Name(s) Filaribits (Pfizer Animal Health),Nemacide (Boehringer Ingleheim) What is this medication used for Diethylcarbamazine is an anthelminthic (dewormer) medication used for the prevention of heartworm disease in dogs. It is also used for the treatment and prevention of roundworms in dogs and the treatment of lungworm nematodes in dogs. Availability Diethylcarbamazine is a prescription medication available as scored,chewable tablets,and syrup. How this medicine should be used The usual dose of diethylcarbamazine for heartworm prevention in dogs is 3mg/pound given once a day year round. In northern climates an alternate schedule is to begin daily dosing before the start of the mosquito season and continue until 60 days after the mosquito season ends. Do not give this medication to dogs without a negative test result for heartworm microfilaria. Failure to do so may result in anaphylactic shock and death. What are the side effects Side effects of diethylcarbamazine in dogs at heartworm prevention doses are uncommon although vomiting and diarrhea can occur. If given to dogs that are heartworm positive (microfilaria present) anaphylactic shock may occur. Symptoms of anaphylactic shock include salivation,diarrhea,vomiting,depression,lethargy,weak pulse,rapid heart rate,labored breathing and death. What special precautions are there Do not use this medication in animals that are allergic to it. Do not give to dogs that are heartworm positive. This medication should be given with food. Because humans can contract roundworm from pets,it is important to maintain good personal hygiene. It is also important to eliminate fleas on the pet and in the household and to not feed the pet rodents or uncooked meat or fish. To prevent reinfection,daily cleanup of stools is recommended. In the event of an overdose Contact your veterinarian or veterinary emergency room. Symptoms of overdose may include vomiting and diarrhea. How should I store this medication Keep this medication in the container it came in,tightly closed. Store tablets at room temperature,away from excess heat,light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Keep medication out of the reach of children and pets. |
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