Interceptor
Generic Name
Milbemycin Oxime
Indications/Uses
Interceptor is commonly used for the prevention of heartworm disease and for the control of roundworm, hookworm or whipworm in dogs and cats. The active ingredient, Milbemycin Oxime, is a mix of the macrolides milbemycin A3 oxime and milbemycin A4 oxime. Milbemycin Oxime is a strong microfilariacidal drug with a capacity to destroy the microscopic offspring of heartworms. It acts by blocking nerve transmission within the parasite, leading to its death. The component is active against nematodes and arthropods.
Precautions
The medicine should not be used in animals with allergy to Milbemycin Oxime. Begin the treatment only after testing the pet for heartworm disease. Avoid feeding rodents or uncooked meat or fish to pets. The medication is not recommended for use in pets with known hypersensitivity, puppies below four weeks of age and kittens below 6 weeks of age. Avoid using the drug in dogs weighing less than 2 lbs and cats weighing less than 1.5 pounds. The medication should be stored at room temperature.
Side Effects
The commonly observed side effects include depression, diarrhea, hyper-salivation, weakness, convulsions, anorexia, loss of appetite, vomiting and lethargy.
Dosage Information
Interceptor flavor tabs are palatable and are FDA approved medication for use in cats and dogs. It is available as 2.3mg, 5.75mg, 11.5mg and 23mg tablets. The recommended dosage for dogs weighing 2 – 10 lbs is 2.3mg, 5.75mg for 11 – 25 lbs and 23mg for 51 – 100 lbs, once a month for 12 months. In cats, it is 5.75mg for 1.5 – 6 lbs, 11.5mg for 6.1 – 12 lbs and 23mg for 12.1 – 25 lbs once a month for 12 months. The duration of the treatment depends on the clinical condition of the pet, response to the medication and appearance of side effects, if any.