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As pet owners, we want to make sure we’re keeping our furry friends as happy and healthy as possible — even if that means chasing them around the house to make sure they take their medications.
Ivermectin, a heartworm preventative, is one of the most common medications for keeping our pups healthy. Let’s dive a bit deeper into what ivermectin is, how it works, and how a dog insurance policy could help you cover costs.
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Ivermectin is a veterinary drug most commonly used to prevent heartworm in dogs and cats. However, it’s also often used to treat a variety of internal and external parasites.1 Ivermectin works by targeting a parasite’s nervous system — paralyzing them so they eventually die off. Because of how this drug works, vets carefully control the dosage to minimize negative effects for your dog.2
While ivermectin is mainly used to treat and prevent heartworm, it can also be used “extra-label” to take care of a number of parasites, including:1
This type of extra-label use must be prescribed by a veterinarian, as outlined by the FDA.3
It can be difficult to give our pets medicine at times. Luckily, ivermectin comes in a variety of forms, so you can find an option that works best for you and your dog. Ivermectin for canines can be administered as a tablet, chewable, topical liquid or paste, or an injection (this option must be done by a qualified veterinarian).1,2
While ivermectin can be given with or without food, if your dog gets sick afterward, your vet may advise that you give the medicine with a treat or food. If they continue to get sick, you may want to contact your vet, as they could be having a reaction to the medication.1
Regardless of the form of ivermectin you choose, this drug should only be given to your pets under the guidance of your veterinarian.
If you give your dog ivermectin, it’s very important that you follow the dosage instructions outlined by your veterinarian, regardless of what the standard doses are. However, the general rule of thumb that a veterinarian may prescribe for an ivermectin dosage is 0.0015 – 0.003 mg per pound each month for heartworm prevention. For external parasite treatment, they may typically administer 0.15 mg per pound once, and then again two weeks later. For internal parasites, 0.1 mg per pound could be given one time.2
For the most part, dogs can safely take ivermectin at the standard doses for heartworm prevention. However, some pets can be sensitive to higher doses.1 Additionally, some dog breeds have a genetic mutation, called MDR1, that makes them particularly sensitive to ivermectin. This can make them more likely to show signs of toxicity, even at the therapeutic (desired) dosage for their weight.1,4
Puppies under six weeks old and dogs who currently have a positive heartworm test, or haven’t been tested, shouldn’t take ivermectin.1
Each dog can have a unique reaction to ivermectin, which means the amount of medication that can cause toxicity varies. Signs of ivermectin toxicity in dogs can include:1,4
If you notice any of these symptoms from your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately.
As mentioned above, a number of dog breeds can be extra sensitive to ivermectin. This sensitivity is most common in:1,4
Typically, the suggested doses for heartworm prevention are safe for these breeds, but it’s important to consult your veterinarian before giving your dog ivermectin.1,4
Depending on the dog and the ivermectin dosage given, certain medications taken at the same time could increase the risk for negative effects. Dogs who are taking the following medications may need to take something other than ivermectin:1
Some medications are known by their brand names, so double-check any of your pup’s prescriptions against the list above. Also, if your dog is taking spinosad to prevent fleas, high doses of ivermectin shouldn’t be used alongside it.1
While ivermectin is generally safe for pets, certain dog breeds can be sensitive to the medication. Regardless of your pet’s breed, ivermectin should only be given under the direction and supervision of your vet.
For the treatment of heartworms and other parasites and diseases, a MetLife Pet Insurance policy can reimburse you up to 90% of covered costs.5 And if you add our optional Preventive Care plan to your policy, you could get reimbursements for parasite prevention up to your annual benefit limit. Help protect your pup from discomfort and your wallet from pricey vet bills. Get a free, personalized quote for a dog insurance policy today.
