Ivermectin is an anti-parasite drug that kills and prevents parasites both internally and externally. This drug was originally developed for use in cattle but has been successful in the treatment and prevention of parasites, including heartworm, in dogs. Always talk to your veterinarian before you start your dog on ivermectin.
History
Ivermectin is a parasite-control drug that was originally developed for cattle. It kills both internal and external parasites by causing neurological damage that results in paralysis and death. Ivermectin is among the most effective drugs available for parasite control. It can be administered by injection one or two times a month, depending on what parasite you are treating. Ivermectin has proven to be very effective in treating and preventing heartworm in dogs.
Dogs
Ivermectin has proven to be successful in treating fleas, ticks, lice, intestinal worms and heartworms in dogs. Never give your dog ivermectin without first talking to your veterinarian. Ivermectin is used off-label--meaning it has not been FDA-approved--for uses in dogs other than heartworm prevention. An effective off-label use of ivermectin is the treatment of dogs infested with mange, including ear mites. There are side effects associated with the use of Ivermectin in dogs, most of which are associated with overdose; so use extreme caution and follow your veterinarian's advice.
Dosage
The recommended dosage of cattle Ivermectin for dogs to prevent heartworm is .0015 milligrams to .003 milligrams per pound of body weight once a month. To treat and prevent skin parasites, such as fleas, ticks and mange, give your dog .15 milligrams per pound of body weight, then repeat the dosage in 14 days. If you are treating for gastrointestinal parasites such as round worms, the dosage is .2 milligrams per pound of body weight.
Warnings
Ivermectin is considered safe and effective if you are administering it under a veterinarian's advice and supervision. Ivermectin should not be used in collies or collie mixed breeds because toxic side effects have been reported in this breed. If your dog has tested positive for heartworm, only use Ivermectin under the supervision of your veterinarian. Ivermectin should not be given to puppies under six weeks old. Never give your dog more than the recommended dosage of Ivermectin. If your dog shows symptoms such as stumbling, tremors, weakness or disorientation after a dose of ivermectin, call your veterinarian right away. These are symptoms of a possible overdose.
Potential
Ivermectin is now available in injectable, oral liquid, tablet, and paste form. The potential use of this drug in the future is vast. Manufacturers are developing new products containing ivermectiin specifically for use in dogs. Heartguard Plus and Iverheart are both heartworm medications for dogs that contain ivermectin and pyrantel pamoate. Products containing ivermectin are considered a great breakthrough in the treatment and prevention of parasite-related disease.
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