Imidocarb Dipropionate

What is imidocarb dipropionate?

Imidocarb dipropionate (brand name Imizol®) is a drug used to treat infections caused by protozoa (single-celled organisms that sometimes cause disease). For example, it is used to treat babesiosis infection in dogs. Babesiosis is caused by the protozoa Babesia, which is transferred to pets via tick bites.

Sometimes, imidocarb dipropionate is used for the treatment of ehrlichiosis or hepatozoonosis in dogs; cytauxzoonosis, babesiosis, and hemoplasmosis in cats; and piroplasmosis in horses. When imidocarb dipropionate is prescribed for the treatment of these diseases, it is referred to as off label (extra label). 

Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How is imidocarb dipropionate given?

• Imidocarb dipropionate is given by injection by a veterinarian.

This medication should take effect within two hours; however, effects may not be noted outwardly, so laboratory tests may be needed to evaluate this medication’s effectiveness.

Are there any potential side effects?

Imidocarb dipropionate may cause the following side effects in dogs:

• Pain during the injection
• Salivation or drooling
• Nasal drip
• Brief episodes of vomiting
• Panting (less common)
• Diarrhea (less common)
• Swelling at the injection site (less common)
• Restlessness (less common)
• Wound formation at the injection site (rare)

Imidocarb dipropionate may cause the following side effects in cats:

• Salivation or drooling
• Tearing
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Muscle tremors
• Restlessness
• Rapid heart rate
• Difficulty breathing

If the side effects of drooling or nasal drip are severe, contact your veterinarian. Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. Treatments to reverse this may be given. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

USE WITH CAUTION in:

• Cats
• Dogs or cats with impaired lung, liver, or kidney function
• Dogs that are young or debilitated
• Dogs that are breeding, pregnant, or lactating (safety has not been established; imidocarb can cross the placenta)

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

DO NOT USE imidocarb dipropionate in pets that:

• Have been exposed to cholinesterase-inhibiting drugs, pesticides, or chemicals.

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Your veterinarian may recommend testing by blood smear or other tests to see if the parasite has been eliminated.
• Liver and kidney function tests are recommended before and after treatment.
• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.

What should I do in case of an emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms.