Which deworming medication is suggested for suspected parasitic causes?

• A. Panacur
• B. Metronidazole
• C. Albendazole
• D. Praziquantel

Answer: (A)

When a parasitic infection is suspected, start with a broad-spectrum dewormer that covers the common intestinal worms so you can reduce worm burden quickly even before identification. Panacur contains fenbendazole, a benzimidazole anthelmintic that acts on many GI nematodes by disrupting the worms’ energy metabolism, leading to their death and expulsion. This broad activity makes it a practical first choice for suspected helminth infections, especially when the exact parasite isn’t yet known.

Metronidazole targets protozoa and anaerobic bacteria rather than helminths, so it isn’t a dewormer for nematodes. Praziquantel is effective mainly against flatworms like tapeworms and schistosomes. Albendazole is also a broad-spectrum option, but in this context Panacur is the preferred agent because of its established use as a general dewormer for suspected intestinal nematode infections and its favorable profile for broad nematode coverage.