Product details
Cestex (epsiprantel) Tablets are an oral medication indicated for the safe and effective removal of tapeworms in dogs and cats, as well as puppies and kittens. It comes in a tasteless, film-coated tablet and requires only a single dose to eliminate tapeworms. Fasting is not necessary or even recommended prior to dosing for easy administration. Cestex acts directly on tapeworms and is minimally absorbed, which allows it to remain at the site of infection in the gastrointestinal tract. It’s available by prescription from your veterinarian.
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Tapeworm Treatment: Prescription oral tablet for the removal of tapeworms in dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens.
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Easy-to-Dose: Film-coated and tasteless, making it easier to swallow. Tablets are available in four strengths.
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No Fasting Required: Dogs or cats can eat and drink normally prior to dosing.
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Single Dose: Only one tablet required to kill tapeworms, as prescribed by your veterinarian.
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Minimally Absorbed: Acts directly on tapeworms and remains at the site of infection in the gastrointestinal tract.
*Please note: The images provided are for illustrative purposes. Your product may be delivered in a Vetsource Pharmacy vial; product packaging & appearance may vary and are subject to current availability.
Product sourced directly from the manufacturer or their approved distributor. Guaranteed genuine product backed by the manufacturer.
For
Dogs and Cats (7 weeks of age and older)
Active ingredient(s)
Epsiprantel
Inactive ingredients
Complete inactive ingredients list not provided by manufacturer.
Brand name
Cestex
Drug class
Anticestodal antiparasitic
Manufacturer
Zoetis
Product strength & size
Cestex Tablets are available in four strengths: 12.5 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg. Please ensure the selected strength and quantity are appropriate for your pet, as recommended by your veterinarian.
For current availability, please refer to the product selection above.
Usage
For additional product information, please refer to the full Prescribing Information provided in the manufacturer’s package insert.
Cestex should be given orally as directed by your veterinarian. Please consult your veterinarian before making any changes or discontinuing the prescribed dosing schedule.
Manufacturer Dosage and Administration:
Follow your veterinarian’s directions as prescribed. Cestex tablets should be administered orally. Fasting is not necessary or recommended. The recommended dosage of epsiprantel is: Cats, 1.25 mg/lb of body weight. Dogs, 2.5 mg/lb of body weight.
Missed doses
This medication is typically given once as a single dose. In some cases, reinfection is possible and retreatment is necessary. Your veterinarian may recommend additional measures to prevent reinfection (e.g., flea control). Do not give more medication than prescribed or two doses at once.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place at a controlled room temperature (68°-77°F), with excursions permitted between 59°-86°F. Keep in a secure location out of the reach of children and pets.
Exposure to extreme temperatures, light, or moisture can affect the integrity and effectiveness of medications. Always store medications properly (e.g., away from the bathroom, kitchen sink, or other damp places).
Side effects
Cestex is generally well tolerated, and side effects are considered uncommon when given at the recommended dosage.
Notify your veterinarian if your pet experiences any persistent or concerning side effects, or if you notice anything unusual.
Precautions
For use in dogs and cats only. Not for use in humans. Keep out of reach of children and animals.
Do not use in kittens or puppies less than 7 weeks of age.
Safety of use in pregnant or breeding animals has not been determined. Discuss the risks of using this medication with your veterinarian if your pet is in one of these groups.
Do not administer this medication to animals with a known or suspected allergy/hypersensitivity to it or any of its ingredients. Allergic reactions to medications may occur. Please inform Vetsource and your veterinarian if your pet has any known sensitivities or allergies, especially to medications and supplements.
If your pet displays symptoms of an allergic reaction, discontinue therapy and call your veterinarian immediately or seek emergency veterinary attention. Symptoms may include (but are not limited to): swollen lips, tongue, face, or airways; difficulty breathing; agitation; profuse salivation; and widespread hives or itching.
Drug and food interactions
There are no documented drug or food interactions with this medication. Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when multiple medications and/or supplements are given together.
As with all medications, please consult your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns prior to use. Please ensure your veterinarian is aware of all medications, supplements, and over-the-counter (OTC) products that your pet is currently using. Your veterinarian may prescribe multiple medications, even if a potential drug interaction may occur. In these instances, your veterinarian may adjust the dosages or monitor your pet more closely.
Adverse reactions
If you are concerned that your pet has experienced an adverse reaction to this medication, please contact the manufacturer Zoetis at 1-888-963-8471 or Vetsource Pet Owner Care at 877-738-4443.
Overdose
If you have any reason to suspect an overdose, call your doctor/veterinarian or the appropriate poison control resource immediately.
For humans:
The national toll-free Poison Help line, 1-800-222-1222, will connect you to your local poison center in case of emergency. This service is available nationwide and in most U.S. territories.
For animals:
The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at 888-426-4435.
Pet Poison Helpline® also provides a 24/7 animal poison control service at 855-764-7661.
*Please note: this information is for third-party services and is provided for convenience in case of potential poison-related emergencies. There may be consultation fee for these services.
Disclaimer
The content provided on this page is NOT medical advice.
All content, including the images and product description above, is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional veterinary consultation, diagnosis, or treatment.
For additional information about this product and how it fits into your pet's individual treatment plan, please consult your veterinarian.
Last revised: 3/10/2026