Piperazine (Pipa-Tabs®) for Dogs and Cats

Overview of Piperazine (Pipa-Tabs®) for Canines and Felines

Piperazine, commonly known as Pipa-Tabs®, is used to treat ascarids, or roundworm, in dogs and cats.

Piperazine belongs to a class of drugs known as anthelmintics. These drugs are used to treat certain parasitic roundworm infestations of the gastrointestinal tract.
The drug works by paralyzing the worms and rendering them unable to remain attached to the intestinal wall: This permits their expulsion from the gastrointestinal tract. Intestinal worms typically are not killed by this drug.
Piperazine is available over-the-counter but should not be administered unless under the supervision and guidance of a veterinarian.

This drug is registered for use in animals only.
Human formulations: None
Veterinary formulations: Pipa-Tabs® (Vet-A-Mix) and various generics preparations

While generally safe and effective when recommended by a veterinarian, piperazine may cause side effects in some animals.
Piperazine should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug.
The drug should also be avoided in animals with known liver or kidney disease and in animals with reduced gastrointestinal activity.
Piperazine may interact with other medications. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if other drugs your pet is receiving might interact with piperazine.
The most common adverse effects associated with piperazine include diarrhea, vomiting, and a staggering gait.
Massive overdoses of piperazine can result in severe vomiting, dehydration, paralysis, and even death.

Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian.
In dogs and cats, piperazine is dosed at 25 to 50 mg per pound (50 to 110 mg/kg). This dose may need to be repeated in 21 days.
For animals under 5 pounds (2.5 kg), the maximum dose should not exceed 150 mg.
Be certain to give this medicine in the manner advised by your veterinarian. Even if your pet appears to be better after one dose, the entire treatment plan should be completed unless side effects dictate otherwise.