Side Effects of Interceptor Plus for Dogs

When it comes to safeguarding our furry friends from parasites, Interceptor Plus is a popular choice among pet parents. But, like any medication, it’s crucial to be aware of potential side effects to ensure the well-being of our canine companions.

What is Interceptor Plus?

Interceptor Plus is a chewable tablet designed to prevent heartworm disease and treat various intestinal parasites in dogs. Its active ingredients, milbemycin oxime, and praziquantel, work together to eliminate parasites and prevent future infections. Though it is a well-trusted medication, understanding its potential side effects is essential for responsible pet care.

Table Chart: Side Effects of Interceptor Plus for Dogs

Side Effect	Description and Key Takeaways	Rare or Common	Checkmark
Vomiting	May occur post-administration. Monitor your dog and consult a vet if it persists.	Common	✅
Diarrhea	Keep your dog hydrated and consult a vet if it continues for more than a day.	Common	✅
Depression/Lethargy	Temporary and should wear off. Seek vet advice if it doesn’t improve.	Less Common	✅
Ataxia (Loss of Coordination)	Monitor closely and consult a vet if it becomes severe.	Rare	✅
Anorexia (Loss of Appetite)	Ensure your dog stays hydrated and encourage eating. Consult a vet if it lasts.	Less Common	✅
Convulsions	Seek immediate veterinary attention.	Rare	✅
Weakness	Keep your dog comfortable and consult a vet if it persists.	Less Common	✅
Hypersalivation	Wipe away saliva and ensure your dog is breathing normally. Contact a vet if concerned.	Rare	✅

How to Administer Safely

Ensure Proper Dosage: Always follow your veterinarian’s prescription and ensure you’re giving the correct dose based on your dog’s weight.

Observe After Administration: Watch your dog for a few minutes post-administration to ensure they’ve consumed the entire dose and aren’t showing immediate reactions.

Be Aware of Contraindications: Don’t use in puppies less than six weeks old or those weighing less than two pounds.

Precautions and Prevention

Pre-Existing Conditions: Ensure your dog is heartworm-free before starting Interceptor Plus, as it is not effective against adult heartworms.

Know Your Breed: Some breeds may be more sensitive to milbemycin oxime. Consult with your vet if you own a breed prone to medication sensitivities.

Regular Vet Check-Ups: Regular check-ups can catch potential issues early and ensure your dog remains heartworm-free.

FAQs: Interceptor Plus for Dogs

1. Can I Administer Interceptor Plus to My Puppy?

Absolutely, Interceptor Plus is safe for puppies. However, there are specific guidelines to follow. Your puppy should be at least six weeks old and weigh no less than two pounds. Adhering to these guidelines ensures the medication is both safe and effective for your young canine.

2. Is There Any Breed-Specific Consideration When Using Interceptor Plus?

While Interceptor Plus is generally safe for all dog breeds, it’s crucial to be cautious, especially with herding breeds. Some dogs, like Collies, have shown sensitivity to milbemycin oxime, one of the active ingredients in Interceptor Plus. If you own a herding breed, a vet consultation is strongly recommended before administration.

3. What If My Dog Misses a Dose?

Consistency is key with heartworm preventatives. If your dog misses a dose, administer Interceptor Plus as soon as you remember and resume the monthly schedule. However, if it’s been a significant time since the last dose, reach out to your veterinarian to discuss the best course of action.

4. How Does Interceptor Plus Work Against Parasites?

Interceptor Plus works through its two active ingredients, milbemycin oxime and praziquantel. Milbemycin oxime disrupts the nerve transmission in worms, leading to paralysis and death, particularly effective against heartworm larvae and intestinal worms. Praziquantel, on the other hand, affects the parasite’s cell membrane, causing muscle spasms, paralysis, and eventual death, making it particularly potent against tapeworms.

5. Can I Use Interceptor Plus All Year Round?

Yes, and in fact, it’s recommended. Maintaining a year-round prevention routine ensures your dog is protected against heartworm and intestinal parasites regardless of the season. This continuous protection is crucial, especially in regions where mosquitoes, the carriers of heartworm, are prevalent throughout the year.

6. What Should I Do If I Notice Side Effects?

Side effects, though rare, can happen. Common ones include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. If you notice any of these signs or anything else unusual after administering Interceptor Plus, contact your veterinarian promptly to ensure your dog receives the necessary care.

7. How Should Interceptor Plus be Stored?

Proper storage ensures the effectiveness of the medication. Store Interceptor Plus at room temperature, ideally between 59° and 77°F (15-25°C). Keep it in a secure location, away from children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion.

8. Is Interceptor Plus Safe for Pregnant or Lactating Dogs?

The safety of Interceptor Plus in pregnant or lactating dogs has not been conclusively established. If your dog is pregnant or nursing, it’s crucial to have a detailed discussion with your veterinarian to weigh the potential risks and benefits before administration.

9. Can Interceptor Plus be Used Concurrently with Other Medications?

Interceptor Plus is generally considered safe to use alongside other medications. However, interactions can occur. To ensure your dog’s safety, inform your veterinarian about all the medications, supplements, or treatments your dog is currently receiving.

10. Is a Prescription Required for Interceptor Plus?

Yes, Interceptor Plus is a prescription medication in the United States. Federal law mandates that it can only be prescribed by a licensed veterinarian. This ensures a medical professional assesses your dog’s health status and determines the suitability of the medication for your pet.

11. How Does Interceptor Plus Compare to Other Heartworm Preventatives?

Interceptor Plus stands out for its broad-spectrum efficacy, targeting five types of parasitic worms, including heartworm, roundworm, hookworm, whipworm, and tapeworm. While other preventatives might cover fewer types of parasites, Interceptor Plus ensures comprehensive protection, making it a preferred choice for pet owners seeking an all-in-one solution.

12. Are There Any Weight or Size Restrictions for Using Interceptor Plus?

Interceptor Plus is available in different dosages tailored to various weight ranges, ensuring precise and effective treatment for dogs from small to extra-large sizes. It is crucial to choose the correct dosage based on your dog’s current weight, as administering a dose too low might not provide adequate protection, while a dose too high could increase the risk of adverse reactions.

13. What Precautions Should I Take When Handling Interceptor Plus?

Ensure you wash your hands thoroughly after handling the medication, and avoid contact with your mouth and eyes. If you have children in the house, store the medication in a place out of their reach to prevent accidental ingestion.

14. Can Interceptor Plus be Crushed or Split for Easier Administration?

Interceptor Plus is designed to be taken as a whole, chewable tablet to ensure proper dosage and effectiveness. Crushing or splitting the tablet can alter the medication’s integrity and efficacy, potentially compromising its ability to prevent parasitic infections adequately.

15. What Is the Active Period of Protection Provided by Interceptor Plus?

Interceptor Plus provides one month of protection from heartworms and intestinal parasites with each dose. Administering the medication on a consistent, monthly schedule is paramount to maintain continuous protection and prevent potential infestations.

16. Is There Any Adjustment Needed for Interceptor Plus During Seasonal Changes?

Despite seasonal variations, maintaining a consistent, year-round administration of Interceptor Plus is recommended. This ensures unbroken protection against parasites, which is crucial since heartworm-carrying mosquitoes can be present even during milder winter months in certain regions.

17. Can Interceptor Plus Cause Allergic Reactions in Dogs?

While allergic reactions to Interceptor Plus are rare, they can occur. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing. If you observe any of these signs after administering Interceptor Plus, seek immediate veterinary care.

18. How Long Does It Take for Interceptor Plus to Start Working?

Interceptor Plus begins to work quickly after administration, killing heartworm larvae and preventing the development of adult heartworms. However, it’s crucial to understand that Interceptor Plus does not kill adult heartworms, emphasizing the importance of regular, monthly dosing for preventative care.

19. Is There a Preferred Time of Day to Administer Interceptor Plus?

Interceptor Plus can be given at any time of the day that suits your schedule. The key is consistency, ensuring you administer the medication at the same time each month to maintain optimal protection.

20. What Steps Should I Take If My Dog Experiences an Overdose?

An overdose of Interceptor Plus can be serious and requires immediate veterinary attention. Signs of an overdose may include vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, lethargy, incoordination, or seizures. If you suspect your dog has ingested an excessive amount of Interceptor Plus, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal poison control center immediately.