Pyrantel embonate is a member of the tetrahydropyrimidine class of anthelmintic compounds. It possesses broad spectrum activity against the major gastro-intestinal helminths of animals and man.
It is effective against the following gastro-intestinal helminths of foals, adult horses and donkeys.
Large and small strongyles (including benzimidazole-resistant strains of small strongyles)
Oxyuris equi
Parascaris equorum
Anoplocephala perfoliata
Pyrantel acts as a potent agonist at acetylcholine (ACh) receptors on muscle cells of nematodes leading to neuromuscular block characteristic of depolarising agents. This results in a prolonged spastic paralysis of the worm and expulsion from the host.
Pyrantel embonate is relatively insoluble and poorly absorbed from the gut. Its activity is confined to parasites dwelling within the gut lumen. The small amount of pyrantel absorbed into the circulation is rapidly metabolised and the drug metabolites have no toxic potential.