Dichlorophen
2,2'-Methylenebis(4-chlorophenol)
Also known as: Dicestal · Various AVM-GSL products · Dichlorophene
Reviewed by the VetSheet Veterinary TeamUpdated Apr 5, 2026Evidence-based veterinary reference
Doses are a clinical reference for licensed veterinary professionals. Always confirm against the current label and the individual patient.
Dosing by species
🌎 NA — North America🌍 EU — Europe
Dogs
| Indication | Dose | Route | Frequency | Duration | Region |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Control of tapeworm infections (Taenia, Dipylidium) | 250 mg total dose (for dogs <2.5 kg); 500 mg per 2.5 kg (for dogs >2.5 kg) | PO | Single dose, repeat every 4-6 months | 1 day | 🌍 EU |
- Control of tapeworm infections (Taenia, Dipylidium): Give maximum 6 tablets at one time; give the rest 3 hours later if no vomiting. Best administered immediately before the main feed. May be given whole or crushed in food.
Cats
| Indication | Dose | Route | Frequency | Duration | Region |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Control of tapeworm infections (Taenia, Dipylidium) | 250 mg total dose (for cats <2.5 kg); 500 mg per 2.5 kg (for cats >2.5 kg) | PO | Single dose, repeat every 4-6 months | 1 day | 🌍 EU |
- Control of tapeworm infections (Taenia, Dipylidium): Give maximum 6 tablets at one time; give the rest 3 hours later if no vomiting. Best administered immediately before the main feed. May be given whole or crushed in food.
Doses are a clinical reference for licensed veterinary professionals. Always confirm against the current label and the individual patient.
Overview
Dichlorophen is an anthelmintic agent used primarily as a cestocide (tapeworm treatment) in dogs and cats. It is effective against Taenia and Dipylidium species but is notably > ineffective against Echinococcus. Affected tapeworms are dislodged and disintegrate during their passage along the alimentary tract, meaning intact worms are rarely seen in the feces after treatment.
Clinical Pearl: Dichlorophen is largely considered a legacy anthelmintic. In modern veterinary practice, it has been widely superseded by praziquantel, which offers a broader spectrum of activity (including Echinococcus) and a superior safety profile.
Mechanism of action
Dichlorophen acts by interfering with oxidative phosphorylation in the parasite → uncoupling of the electron transport chain → depletion of ATP (energy) reserves → paralysis, death, and subsequent disintegration of the tapeworm within the host's gastrointestinal tract.
Safety & warnings
Contraindications
- Animals weighing < 1.25 kg
- Animals < 6 months of age
- Repeating treatment within 10 days
- Repeating treatment immediately if vomiting occurs shortly after dosing
Adverse effects
- Vomiting
- Salivation (rare)
- Hyperaesthesia (rare)
- Loss of coordination/ataxia (rare)
Precautions
Vomiting: If vomiting occurs shortly after dosing, do not repeat the treatment immediately. Age/Weight Restrictions: Strictly avoid use in puppies and kittens under 6 months of age or weighing less than 1.25 kg. Dosing Limits: Do not administer more than 6 tablets at one time. If a higher dose is required, split the dose and give the remainder 3 hours later (provided no vomiting has occurred).
Monitoring
- Resolution of tapeworm segments (proglottids) in feces or around the perineum
- Vomiting post-administration
- Neurological signs (ataxia, hyperaesthesia) in sensitive individuals
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
Poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, allowing it to act locally on intestinal parasites.
Distribution
Remains primarily within the gastrointestinal lumen.
Metabolism
Any absorbed fraction is metabolized in the liver.
Elimination
Excreted primarily in the feces.
Overdose
Overdosage may lead to gastrointestinal distress (severe vomiting) and neurological signs including hypersalivation, hyperaesthesia, and loss of coordination (ataxia). Treatment is supportive and symptomatic.
Available products
Formulations
- Oral tablet: 250 mg, 500 mg, 750 mg
Veterinary
- 250 mg oral tablet
- 500 mg oral tablet
- 750 mg oral tablet
Regulatory status
Authorized Veterinary Medicine - General Sales List (can be sold over the counter).
No regulatory data for: 🇺🇸 US · 🇭🇰 HK · 🇹🇼 TW · 🇯🇵 JP · 🇰🇷 KR · 🇦🇺 AU
Storage & stability
Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container, protected from light and moisture.
Client information
- Administration: Give the medication immediately before your pet's main meal of the day. The tablets can be given whole or crushed and mixed into the food.
- What to Expect: The medication causes the tapeworms to disintegrate inside the gut. You will likely not see any dead worms passed in the stool.
- Vomiting: If your pet vomits shortly after taking the medication, do not give another dose. Contact your veterinarian.
- Restrictions: Do not use this medication in pets younger than 6 months or weighing less than 1.25 kg.
VetSheet drug reference is intended for licensed veterinary professionals as a clinical decision-support aid, not a substitute for professional judgement or the manufacturer’s current label.