ATCvet code: QP52AC13.
Pharmacodynamic properties
Fenbendazole is an anthelmintic belonging to the benzimidazole carbamate group
Fenbendazole acts by interfering in the energy metabolism of the nematode. The anthelmintic efficacy is based on inhibition of the polymerisation of tubulin to microtubuli. The anthelmintic affects both adult and immature stages of gastro-intestinal and respiratory nematodes.
Pharmacokinetic properties
Fenbendazole is only partly absorbed from the intestine and reaches maximum plasma concentration 6 (4-8) hours after oral administration.
Fenbendazole is metabolised mainly by enzymes of the cytochrome P -450 system in the liver. The major oxidative metabolite is fenbendazole sulfoxide which is further metabolised to fenbendazole sulfone.
Fenbendazole and its metabolites are distributed throughout the body but highest concentrations are found in the liver.
Fenbendazole and its metabolites are detectable in the plasma only during the first 48 hours following drug administration at a single dose rate of 10 mg fenbendazole/kg bodyweight.
Administration of fenbendazole at a dose rate of 10 mg/kg bodyweight daily for five consecutive days lead to accumulation of fenbendazole during the multiple dosing period whereas the concentrations of its two metabolites show only a slight increase. After the last administration on day 5, all three compounds are eliminated from blood very rapidly, within two or three days.
The elimination of fenbendazole and its metabolites occurs primarily via the faeces.