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Ivermectin in Veterinary Medicine - Facts and Information

Ivermectin

Updated on September 10, 2024

Ivermectin is used primarily as a heartworm preventative in dogs and cats. It may be combined with other medications to treat other parasitic infestations. In large animals, ivermectin is widely used to treat intestinal parasites.

Ivermectin

Summary

Used For: Deworming domestic species and preventing heartworm infections

Brands: Heartgard/Heartgard Plus, Iverhart/Iverhart Plus, Tri-Heart Plus

Species: Dogs, cats, cattle, horses, sheep, pigs

Drug type: Anti-parasitic

Prescription required: Yes

Pregnancy and lactation:

Safe to use in pregnant and lactating animals at labeled dosages

Side effects: Rare, but may include staggering, vomiting, diarrhea, depression or dilated pupils.

General description

Ivermectin is an antiparasitic medication used in many domestic species for parasite control. The type of parasite dictates the dosage to be used and the length of treatment that is needed. [Buy Ivermectin now on Petco.](https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/brand/iverhart-max) A prescription from your veterinarian is needed to purchase.

Uses

Heartworm prevention, intestinal parasite control, external parasite control

How it works

Ivermectin works by causing paralysis of the parasites that are affected by the medication.

Dosage

**Dogs**: 6 micrograms per kilogram of body weight given by mouth every 30 days for heartworm prevention. **Cats**: 24 micrograms per kilogram of body weight given by mouth every 30 days for heartworm prevention. Outside of heartworm prevention, the type of internal/external parasite dictates the dosage to be used and the length of treatment that is needed .

Forms

Ivermectin is supplied in a 1% sterile solution for injection as well as a chewable in a variety of doses based on pet body weight.

Storage information & handling

Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight.

What results can I expect?

Ivermectin begins to treat parasites when given, but resolution of the problem may take a while. This is dependent on what type of parasite is being treated and the level of infection.

Missed Dosage

If a dose is missed, consult your veterinarian. Missed dosage can leave animals unprotected from heartworm infection.

Overdose / acute toxicity

Overdose can occur at high doses in any animal and can cause signs of neurological impairment due to the drug crossing the blood brain barrier. There are also several breeds of dogs that cannot tolerate ivermectin and will show signs of toxicity at a normal dose.

Side effects

May include: * Staggering * Vomiting * Diarrhea * Depression * Dilated pupils

Contraindications

*Do not use is breeds with the MDR1 mutation, such as Australian Shepherds, Collies, Whippets, Shetland Sheepdogs and Old English Sheepdogs. *Do not give to animals that are less than 6 weeks old. *Ensure animals do not currently have heartworms before beginning administration.

Drug interactions

Ivermectin may interact with the following drugs: * Ketoconazole * Cyclosporin * Itraconazole * Calcium channel blockers

Precaution

At high doses, safety in pregnant and lactating animals has not been evaluated.

Sources

*Saunders Handbook of Veterinary Drugs*

Related Questions

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Disclaimer

The information contained on this page is for educational purposes only. This medication should only be given under the advice of a veterinarian who has examined your pet under the laws applicable to your state of residence.