Common Brand Names
Single Ingredient
- Heartgard Chewables for Dogs
- Heartgard Chewables for Cats
- Valuheart for Dogs
Combined Ingredients
- HeartGard Plus Chewables for Dogs (with Pyrantel)
- Tri-Heart Plus for Dogs (with Pyrantel)
Uses Of Ivermectin
Ivermectin is a wide-spectrum antiparasitic, mainly used for heartworm prevention in cats and dogs.
For Cat: It is used to prevent feline heart disease by eliminating heartworm larvae and for the removal of immature and adult hookworms (A. braziliense and Ancylostomatubaeforme )
For Dog: It prevents canine heart disease by eliminating heartworm larvae (Dirofilariaimmitis). It is combined with Pyrantel to treat roundworms and hookworm.
Method Of Application
Ivermectin comes in oral application supplied as a tablet or chewables
Dosage And Administration
Ivermectin is administered once a month, and the dosage is based on the pet's body weight. Therefore you should weigh your dog first and use the correct product for your pet. Always use instructions on the packaging recommended by your vet.
Chewables can be given directly or broken up and added to a small amount of food. If you are giving it by hand, then make sure that your pet chews it rather than swallowing the chewable whole.
Ivermectin successfully prevents heartworm development for a month following the animal's exposure to mosquitos. Therefore, if administered seasonally, the first dose should be administered within 30 days of the first exposure, and the last dose should be given within 30 days of the previous exposure. It would be best if you gave Ivermectin every month on the same day for maximum efficacy.
Please note that doses can vary from country to country, and you should always follow the packaging direction.
Possible Side Effects
Ivermectin can cause various side effects, but most people do not experience significant problems when taking the medication. Common side effects may include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Skin rash
- Pruritus (itching)
Less common but more severe side effects include:
- Seizures
- Coma
- Heart attack
- Respiratory failure
- Inflammation of the brain and spinal cord
If you experience severe side effects, seek medical attention immediately.
It is important to note that some people may be more likely to experience side effects from Ivermectin, such as those with liver or kidney problems or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you have any concerns about the potential side effects of Ivermectin, consult with a healthcare professional before taking the medication.
It is also important to report any side effects you experience to a healthcare professional or the FDA.
Precautions
There are several precautions to be taken when using Ivermectin. Some of the most important include:
- Consult your healthcare professional before taking Ivermectin if you have any pre-existing medical conditions, particularly liver or kidney problems, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Do not take Ivermectin if you are allergic to it or its components.
- Do not exceed the recommended dosage of Ivermectin.
- If you are taking other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, inform your healthcare professional as they may interact with Ivermectin.
- Take the medication exactly as directed by your healthcare professional or the medication's labeling.
- Ivermectin may cause drowsiness or dizziness, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects your pet.
- Inform a healthcare professional if you have a history of seizures, as Ivermectin may cause seizures in some individuals.
Following these precautions can reduce the risk of experiencing side effects or other problems when taking Ivermectin. Talk to your vet if you have any questions or concerns about protecting Ivermectin.
Signs Of Toxicity
There are some symptoms of sensitivity or overdose. Please get in touch with your vet immediately if you suspect that your pet has overdosed.
Cats: Symptoms like diarrhea, lack of reflexes, dilated pupils, vomiting, tremors, blindness, loss of appetite, seizures, staggering, posterior paralysis, coma, and drooling.
Dogs: Symptoms like staggering, blindness, seizures, coma, drooling, dilated pupils, tremors, and vomiting.
Storage
Store at a controlled room temperature of 59°-86°F (15°-30°C). Protect product from light.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for normal reference only and is not intended to replace veterinary advice or packaging label. You should consult your vet first. Here may have included only some of the uses, side effects, brand names, or applications.
