General Information On Heartgard
The generic name of Heartgard is Ivermectin, and it is a broad-spectrum antiparasitic avermectin drug. Heartgard is prescribed to dogs and cats for the treatment of certain parasitic roundworm infections. Ivermectin works by first paralyzing the parasites and then killing them. It needs to be administered orally and is available in the form of tablets. You can buy Heartgard online or from any pet pharmacy if it has been prescribed by a vet. The medication halts the tissue formation stage in a heartworm or Dirofilaria Immitis larva within 30 days after the infection has surfaced.
Side effects of Heartgard
The side effects of this drug are different for both dogs and cats. Some of the most common side effects in dogs include dilated pupils, tremors, and loss of weight. A sudden loss of weight can even lead to death. Side effects of Heartgard in cats include loss of appetite, agitation, staggering, tremors, dilated pupils, disorientation, and even permanent blindness.
Some of the other symptoms or side effects of Heartgard seen in dogs include laziness and sluggish behavior, prolonged sleep, excessive crying or whining, loss of interest in activities including going out for walks, severe cases of vomiting and diarrhea, and mild to severe seizures or convulsions.
Precautions
There are certain precautions that are necessary while using Heartgard. You need to ensure that you only buy Heartgard after checking the expiry date on the label since an expired drug can cause severe complications. Heartgard administration can also lead to side effects that will dehydrate your dog and as such, you need to ensure that it is given enough liquids and water. If your dog is allergic to any ingredient in Heartgard, consult your vet before you start administering the doses. You need to ensure that you maintain your pet’s hygiene, as well as your own cleanliness, because humans can contract hookworm, roundworm, and tapeworm infections from dogs and other animals.
Heartgard Dosage
Heartgard is available in the form of tablets and chewables. Heartgard Plus chewables are available in three different packs that are to be used according to the weight of the dog or cat. Heartgard blue is for dogs and cats weighing less than 25lbs, the green pack is for dogs weighing between 26 and 50 lbs, and the red pack is for dogs weighing between 51 and 100 lbs. The standard or prescribed course is one Heartgard chewable or tablet per month. The dosage strength varies according to the weight of the dog. The dose for dogs weighing 25 lbs or less is Ivermectin 68 mcg and Pyrantel 57 mg, the dose for dogs between 26 and 50 lbs is Ivermectin 136 mcg and Pyrantel 114 mg, and for dogs weighing between 51-100 lbs, the dosage is Ivermectin 272 mcg and Pyrantel 227 mg. Heartgard should be chewed and not swallowed whole.
Interactions
Heartgard is not known to have any interactions with other pet drugs. However, inform your vet if you are giving your dog or cat any other medications before you buy Heartgard to prevent complications.
