The price of deworming is not a single, fixed figure. It varies dramatically depending on whether it's for a pet or a person, the specific type of medication required, and where the medication is sourced. While some basic treatments are relatively affordable, others can be quite expensive, especially for certain human conditions or combined veterinary medications.
The Cost of Pet Deworming
For pet owners, deworming costs are influenced by several factors, including the animal's size, the type of worm being treated, and whether the medication is purchased over-the-counter or from a veterinarian.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) vs. Veterinary Dewormers
Over-the-counter dewormers for pets can be relatively inexpensive, often ranging from $10 to $50 for a single treatment, depending on the animal's size and the type of worms targeted. However, these products typically address only a limited range of parasites. For example, some may kill roundworms but not tapeworms, requiring a separate medication.
Veterinary-prescribed dewormers are often more comprehensive and can be included in combination products that also prevent heartworm and control fleas and ticks. These products, such as Simparica Trio or Revolution Plus, offer broader protection but come at a higher price point, often ranging from $30 to over $200 for a multi-dose supply, depending on the product and pet size.
Additional Veterinary Costs
The total cost of a vet-supervised deworming treatment can be significantly higher than just the medication. A proper diagnosis from a vet is crucial for selecting the correct treatment and can include additional expenses.
- Fecal Exam: A fecal test to confirm the presence of parasites and identify the specific type can cost between $30 and $130.
- Vet Visit Fee: The appointment itself is an additional charge, which can vary depending on the clinic and location.
- Combined Preventatives: Opting for monthly combination products from a vet can be a recurring expense but often provides more complete protection against a range of internal and external parasites.
The Cost of Human Deworming
For humans, deworming medication costs depend heavily on the type of infection, the specific drug, and, most importantly, insurance coverage.
Over-the-Counter Solutions
For common parasitic infections like pinworms, affordable OTC options containing pyrantel pamoate are available. Brands like Reese's Pinworm Medicine are often priced under $20 for a single dose. This is the most cost-effective option for treating certain, confirmed parasitic infections without a prescription.
Prescription Medications and Insurance
Prescription deworming medication for humans has a wide cost range. For infections beyond pinworms, a doctor may prescribe a drug that is far more expensive, especially without insurance. Some brand-name drugs, such as Emverm (mebendazole), can cost over $600 for a single tablet due to limited competition in the market. However, patient assistance programs or manufacturer coupons may help reduce this cost. Generic alternatives for other medications, such as albendazole, can bring the price down significantly, though it can still be costly. GoodRx and other discount coupons can also help lower the out-of-pocket price for many prescriptions.
Factors Influencing Deworming Costs
Several key factors determine the final price of deworming:
- Species and Size: A larger animal or person requires a larger dose of medication, which increases the cost.
- Type of Parasite: Different parasites require different medications. Some drugs are specific to one type of worm, while others are broad-spectrum, influencing the cost and efficacy.
- Source of Medication: Purchasing medication from an online store or big-box retailer is often cheaper than buying it directly from a veterinary clinic or pharmacy, although vet-prescribed medication is necessary for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
- Diagnosis and Monitoring: For both pets and humans, the cost of a proper diagnosis is an important consideration. For certain human conditions, ongoing monitoring and follow-up might also be necessary.
- Insurance and Discounts: For human prescriptions, health insurance or discount cards can drastically change the final price from unaffordable to manageable.
Deworming Cost Comparison
| Feature | OTC Pet Dewormer | Vet-Prescribed Pet Dewormer | OTC Human Dewormer | Prescription Human Dewormer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical Cost Range | $10 - $50 per treatment | $30 - $200+ (multi-dose supply) | <$20 per dose | $25 - $600+ (without insurance) |
| Parasites Covered | Specific to a few types (e.g., roundworms) | Broad spectrum (e.g., roundworms, tapeworms, heartworms) | Primarily pinworms | Varies by medication and infection type |
| Professional Oversight | None required | Vet visit and diagnosis are recommended | Doctor's advice is recommended | Doctor's prescription is required |
| Additional Costs | Minimal | Fecal exam ($30-$130), vet visit fee | Minimal | Diagnostic tests, follow-up visits |
Conclusion
The cost of deworming is not a simple question with a single answer. For pets, prices are influenced by the medication type and additional veterinary services, with OTC options being cheaper but less comprehensive than vet-prescribed drugs. For humans, the cost is highly dependent on whether an over-the-counter or prescription medication is used, with insurance playing a major role in managing potentially high prices for certain prescriptions. Regardless of the species, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional—a veterinarian for pets or a doctor for humans—to ensure an accurate diagnosis and the most effective and safe treatment plan. Opting for the cheapest option without professional advice can lead to ineffective treatment or incomplete eradication of the parasitic infection.
For more detailed information on pet health and medication, you can visit the Pet Health section of the MetLife Pet Insurance blog.
