Overview of Nitroscanate for Canines

 Nitroscanate, also known as Lopatol®, is a prescription drug used for dogs to roundworm, hookworm, tapeworm and fluke. 

Due to the large number and variety of parasites that can infect pets, the control of parasitic diseases often requires the use of multiple drugs. Most of the drugs commonly used to treat or control common nematode intestinal worms and heartworms are ineffective in the control of tapeworms (parasites belonging to the class Cestodes). Nitroscanate is a parasite-control drug with strong activity against a number of different tapeworms, as well as against flukes, hookworms, and roundworms.

The most common tapeworms of dogs and cats (Dipylidium) are spread from pet to pet by fleas. Less common tapeworms (Taenia and Echinococcus) are found in animals that hunt and ingest parasite hosts, such as rabbits, which carry these worms.

Nitroscanate is a prescription drug and can only be obtained from a veterinarian or by prescription from a veterinarian.

Brand Names and Other Names for Nitroscanate

This drug is registered for use in dogs.

Human formulations: None

Veterinary formulations: Lopatol® (Novartis)

Uses of Nitroscanate for Dogs

The primary use of nitroscanate is the control and elimination of roundworm and tapeworm infestations in dogs. It is also effective against fluke and hookworm infestations in dogs.

Precautions and Side Effects

While generally safe and effective when prescribed by a veterinarian, nitroscanate can cause side effects in some animals.

Nitroscanate should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug.

Nitroscanate is not recommended for use in puppies under 2 weeks of age.

Nitroscante tablets are film-coated and should not be broken or divided. 

Adverse effects are uncommon but include lethargy, vomiting, lack of appetite, diarrhea, and lethargy.

How Nitroscanate Is Supplied

Nitroscanate is available as “Lopatol 100,” which contains 100 mg nitroscanate, and as “Lopatol 500,” which contains 500 mg nitroscanate

Dosing Information of Nitroscanate for Dogs

Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian. 

Label instructions should be carefully followed as the dosage involves a range of body weights. In dogs, the dosage is 25 mg/pound (50 mg/kg) body weight. 

It is recommended that nitroscanate be given with, or shortly after, food. 

Be certain to complete the prescription unless specifically directed otherwise by your veterinarian.