Advantage MULTI for Dogs
Generic Name
Imidacloprid and Moxidectin
Indications/Uses
Advantage Multi for dogs is a topical prescription medicine used for flea control and heartworm prevention and is effective in the treatment of certain intestinal parasites including hookworms, roundworms and whipworms in dogs. The medication also carries endectocides, endoparasiticides and ectoparasiticides properties. The product can be used as a treatment strategy for Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD).The active ingredients in Advantage Multi for Dogs are imidacloprid and moxidectin. Imidacloprid exhibits a high affinity for the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the post-synaptic region of the CNS of the fleas. This is followed by the inhibition of cholinergic transmission in insects, resulting in their paralysis and death. The interaction of moxidectin with gaba-amniobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate-gated chloride channels results in the opening of the chloride channels on the post-synaptic junction in addition to the inflow of chloride ions. This again results in flaccid paralysis and causes the death of the insect.
Precautions
Keep the dog from licking the application sites until 30 minutes after the application. Also, make sure that the treated dog is kept isolated from the rest. This product is meant for external use only. Make sure the dog is 7 weeks or older and weighs above 3 lbs before administering the medication. It is advised not to use the medication on sick, injured or underweight animals. The product should be used with caution on pregnant, breeding or nursing animals.
Side Effects
Accidental ingestion of the product by dogs could result in side effects including salivation, depression, panting, dilated pupils and generalized muscle tremors. In rare instances, dogs are reported to exhibit discomfort, behavioral changes, increased thirst, and coughing and gagging.
Dosage Information
The recommended minimum dosage of Advantage Multi for Dogs is 1.1 mg/lb (2.5 mg/kg) moxidectin and 4.5 mg/lb (10 mg/kg) imidacloprid (once in a month), by topical administration. The medication comes in easy-to-apply single dose applicator tubes. When applying the medication, make sure to apply directly on the dog’s skin rather the hair-coat.
Brand Names
Advantage Multi, Advocate