Ingredient Ivermectin
Generic Name
Ivermectin (eye-ver-mek’-tin) Plus
Brand Name(s)
Heartgard Plus (MERIAL), Iverhart Plus (VIRBAC)
What is HeartGard used for
HeartGard is an anthelminthic (dewormer) used for the prevention of heartworm disease in dogs. When combined with pyrantel pamoate it is also used for treating roundworm and hookworm in dogs.
HeartGard availability
HeartGard Plus available by prescription as beef flavored chewable tablets also contains the anthelminthic (dewormer) pyrantel pamoate.
How HeartGard should be used
HeartGard Plus is given once a month year round for the prevention of heartworm disease. The usual dose of HeartGard plus in dogs up to 25 pounds is 68mcg/57mg, for 26-50 pounds is 136mcg/114mg and for 51-100 pounds is 272mcg/227mg. Dogs over 100 pounds are given a combination of tablets. The chewable tablets should be chewed. They are not meant to be swallowed whole. For dogs that normally swallow treats whole, the tablet can be broken into pieces. As an alternate to year round dosing, this medication can be given during the mosquito season and for one month after the season ends.
What are the HeartGard side effects
The side effects of HeartGard are rare at the recommended heartworm prevention dose. Higher doses in dogs may cause tremors, dilated pupils, and loss of body weight or death. Side effects in cats include agitation, loss of appetite, staggering, dilated pupils, tremors, blindness and disorientation.
What HeartGard special precautions are there
This medication should not be used in animals allergic to it. Use with caution in Collies. Heartworm testing should be performed prior to the start of prevention therapy. If the animal is off HeartGard for 6 months or less, start the medication and test after 6 months since microfilaria, that take 6 months to mature, will result in a positive test result. Because humans can contract roundworm, hookworm and tapeworm from animals, it is important to maintain good personal hygiene. It is also important to eliminate fleas on the pet and in the household and to not feed the pet rodents or uncooked meat or fish. To prevent reinfection, daily cleanup of stools is recommended.
In the event of an HeartGard overdose
Contact your veterinarian or veterinary emergency room. Symptoms of overdose may include vomiting, diarrhea, and incoordination in dogs. The symptoms of overdose in cats may include disorientation, tremors, incoordination, and blindness.
How should I store HeartGard
Keep this medication in the original box. Do not remove the tablet from the wrapper until ready to give the medicine. Store this medicine at room temperature. Keep this medication out of the reach of children and pets.
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