Bimeda EQUIMAX® (Ivermectin & Praziquantel) Paste

Paste medications are thick and sticky, usually given by mouth using a syringe or tube. They’re often used for dewormers or other oral meds in horses, dogs, and cats. The key is to aim for the back of the mouth so your pet swallows the paste instead of spitting it out.

For Horses:

1. Set the dose on the syringe if it has markings (usually based on weight).
2. Stand beside your horse, not in front, and have someone hold them if possible.
3. Gently insert your thumb into the side of the horse’s mouth (between the teeth) to open it.
4. Insert the syringe into that gap and squirt the paste toward the back of the tongue.
5. Lift the horse’s head slightly and encourage swallowing by stroking the throat or gently blowing on the nostrils.
6. Watch for licking or chewing—that means they swallowed. If paste spills out, check how much was lost and contact your vet if unsure.
7. You can offer a little water afterward and reward them with a treat like a carrot if allowed.

For Dogs & Cats:

1. Gently open your pet’s mouth or slip the syringe into the side of it.
2. Aim toward the back of the tongue and squirt the paste in.
3. Hold the mouth closed briefly, and rub the throat or blow gently on the nose to encourage swallowing.
4. Give praise or a treat afterward to make it a positive experience.

Aftercare:

1. Wipe your pet’s mouth if needed.
2. Clean or recap the syringe as instructed.
3. Store the tube according to label directions.

Tip: Paste can feel weird to pets at first. For horses, try giving applesauce by syringe ahead of time so they get used to the sensation.

Veterinarians most commonly consider EQUIMAX® during routine deworming protocols where a comprehensive approach to parasite management is a clinical priority. It is frequently a point of discussion for equine health regimens intended to address a wide variety of internal challenges, including large and small strongyles, pinworms, ascarids, hairworms, stomach worms, lungworms and bots. Notably, veterinarians often select this specific combination for its inclusion of an agent discussed in the context of tapeworm management, which is a critical component of seasonal parasite control.

At a pharmacological level, EQUIMAX® functions through the synergistic action of two active ingredients: ivermectin and praziquantel. Ivermectin belongs to the avermectin class and acts by binding selectively and with high affinity to glutamate-gated chloride ion channels in invertebrate nerve and muscle cells. This action leads to an increase in the permeability of the cell membrane to chloride ions, stopping the transmission of nerve impulses in susceptible parasites. Praziquantel, a pyrazineisoquinoline derivative, acts by causing severe spasms and paralysis of the parasite's muscles. It functions by affecting the permeability of the parasite's cell membrane to calcium ions, which leads to the rapid contraction of the schistosome's musculature and the eventual detachment of the parasite from the host tissue. Your veterinarian will determine the clinical appropriateness of this medication based on fecal egg count results and local regional parasite trends.

The actions described here reflect the product's FDA-approved labeling; your veterinarian determines the appropriate use for your animal.

Prescription only. Use only under the direction of a licensed veterinarian. This information is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, prescribing or monitoring.

Commonly observed effects following the administration of EQUIMAX® may include localized swelling or itching at the site of a high parasite burden, which is typically associated with the body's natural response to the presence of dead or dying larvae. Some horses may experience temporary digestive shifts or localized mouth irritation. These observations are generally self-limiting, but owners are encouraged to contact their veterinarian with any concerns regarding their horse's comfort or appetite following administration.

This medication is typically used with extra caution in horses presented with severe debilitation or those with unknown health histories. It is essential to ensure that EQUIMAX® is only administered to horses and other equids, as some other species—most notably certain dog breeds—can experience severe adverse reactions to ivermectin. Your veterinarian will provide guidance on a complete parasite management approach that includes prescriptions and pasture management strategies. Because dosing is based on the horse's weight, your veterinarian is the right person to evaluate your horse and ensure the administration protocol is appropriately tailored to their individual needs.