Febantel is a broad-spectrum oral anthelmintic pro-drug commonly used in veterinary medicine to treat and control gastrointestinal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms in dogs, cats, and livestock. Once administered, it is metabolized into active compounds, fenbendazole and oxfendazole, which belong to the benzimidazole class and work by inhibiting tubulin polymerization in parasites. This disruption affects cellular structure, glucose uptake, and energy metabolism, ultimately leading to the death of the parasites.
BRAND NAMES
Drontal Plus (Bayer): Available in various sizes for puppies and dogs (tablet form).
• Kiwof Plus / Kiwof Plus XL: Broad-spectrum anthelmintic for dogs.
• Eazypet: Praziquantel, pyrantel embonate, and febantel tablets.
• Prazidot-F: Tablet containing Febantel, Praziquantel, and Pyrantel Pamoate.
• Slayworm: Tablet formulation.
•P-OOCH Vorm: Tablet formulation.
• Skyworm Cat: Specialized formulation.
MECHANISM OF ACTION
Febantel is a pro-benzimidazole anthelmintic used in veterinary medicine to treat a range of parasitic infections in dogs, cats, and livestock. It functions as a prodrug, remaining inactive until it is metabolized within the host’s body to exert its therapeutic effect.
PHARMACOKINETICS
Absorption: Febantel is administered orally and is moderately absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.
Distribution: the steady-state volume of distribution (\(V_{dss}\)) for the active metabolite fenbendazole is approximately 3.3 ± 1 L/kg (with a range of 1.7–7.4 L/kg).
Metabolism: Undergoes rapid first-pass metabolism in the liver to active metabolites, mainly fenbendazole and oxfendazole.
Excretion: Eliminated primarily through feces, with a smaller amount excreted in urine.
PHARMACODYNAMICS
Febantel is a veterinary anthelmintic belonging to the pro-benzimidazole chemical class, which acts as a prodrug metabolized in vivo to active benzimidazoles (fenbendazole and oxfendazole). It is used to control and treat intestinal nematodes (hookworms, ascarids, whipworms), lungworms, and cestodes in dogs, cats, horses, sheep, and cattle.
ADMINISTRATION
Febantel is administered orally and is available in formulations such as tablets, granules, or in combination with other anthelmintics. The dosing frequency depends on the type of parasite and the animal species, and it is usually given as a single dose or as prescribed by a veterinarian. It is used in dogs, cats, horses, sheep, and cattle, and is often combined with drugs like praziquantel or pyrantel to provide broader-spectrum deworming.
DOSAGE AND STRENGTH
The dosage and strength of febantel depend on the animal species, type of parasite, and formulation used. In dogs and cats, it is typically administered orally at 10–20 mg/kg body weight as a single dose, often in combination with praziquantel or pyrantel for broader-spectrum deworming. For sheep and cattle, the usual oral dose ranges from 5–10 mg/kg body weight, depending on the parasite load. Febantel is available in various formulations, including 50 mg, 100 mg, and 500 mg tablets, as well as granules or combination products, and the exact dosage should always follow veterinary guidance to ensure safety and effectiveness.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Febantel has relatively few reported drug interactions, but certain precautions are important. It can be safely combined with praziquantel or pyrantel for broader-spectrum deworming. Caution is advised when using febantel with other drugs that are metabolized by the liver, as it undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism. Concurrent use with other benzimidazole-class drugs may increase the risk of additive effects or toxicity. Additionally, because febantel and its metabolites are highly protein-bound, drugs that strongly bind plasma proteins could alter its pharmacokinetics. Veterinary supervision is recommended whenever febantel is administered alongside other medications to ensure safety.
FOOD INTERACTIONS
Febantel can be administered with or without food, although giving it with a small amount of food may slightly enhance its absorption due to its low solubility. Normal feeding generally does not significantly affect its anthelmintic effectiveness, but following a veterinarian’s guidance on whether to give it with food is recommended to ensure optimal results.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Febantel is contraindicated in animals with known hypersensitivity to benzimidazole compounds. It should be avoided in severely debilitated or sick animals, as well as in animals with significant liver or kidney impairment due to its hepatic metabolism and partial renal excretion. Caution is also advised in pregnant or lactating animals unless specifically prescribed by a veterinarian, as safety data in these populations may be limited.
SIDE EFFECTS
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Loss of Appetite
Excessive Salivation
Bloody Stool
OVER DOSE
Febantel overdose is uncommon but possible due to its wide safety margin.
Symptoms: May include gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea), weakness, loss of appetite, and in severe cases, neurological signs like tremors or uncoordinated movement.
Immediate Steps: Stop administering the drug.
Treatment: Offer supportive care, including hydration and symptom management.
TOXICITY
Febantel has a relatively low toxicity and is considered safe when used at recommended doses. Toxic effects are rare but may occur with overdose or in sensitive animals. Signs of toxicity can include gastrointestinal disturbances such as vomiting and diarrhea, lethargy, anorexia, and, in severe cases, neurological symptoms like tremors or ataxia. Chronic or high-dose exposure may potentially affect liver function due to its hepatic metabolism. Supportive care and veterinary supervision are recommended in cases of suspected toxicity.
