Advantage MULTI for CATS
Generic Name
Imidacloprid and Moxidectin
Indications/Uses
Advantage Multi for Cats is a topical prescription medication with effective components for flea control and heartworm prevention, and comes with endectocides, endoparasiticides and ectoparasiticides properties. The medication is commonly used for the prevention of heartworm disease caused by L3 and L4 larvae of Dirofilaria immitis. The medication is chiefly indicated for the treatment of flea infestations (Ctenocephalides felis) and ear mite infestations (Otodectes cynotis). The medication is effective as a treatment strategy for flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) and also for the elimination of certain intestinal parasites in cats. Imidacloprid and moxidectin are the active ingredients in the medicine. Imidacloprid exhibits high affinity for the nicotinergic acetylcholine receptors in the post-synaptic region of the CNS of the flea, resulting in the paralysis and death of the insect. Moxidectin is efficient to fight internal and external parasites including larval stages (L3, L4) of Dirofilaria immitis and gastrointestinal nematodes. Moxidectin interacts with GABA and glutamate-gated chloride channels, resulting in the opening of the chloride channels on the postsynaptic junction. This action triggers the inflow of chloride ions and creates a permanent resting state, resulting in the paralysis and eventually the death of the parasite.
Precautions
Advantage Multi for Cats needs to be used with extra caution on breeding, pregnant, nursing and geriatric cats. The medication is not recommended to be used on sick, injured or underweight cats (less than 2lbs), and cats less than 9 weeks old. Oral ingestion of the medication could result in conditions like decreased appetite, vomiting and hyper salivation. In households with multiple pets, the treated cats need to be kept isolated from others at least for 30 minutes after application. Also, keep children away from the treated pets for 2 hours after application.
Side Effects
In rare instances, pets are reported to exhibit side effects like behavioral changes, uneasiness, increased thirst, hyper-salivation, tiredness, and coughing and gagging.
Dosage Information
The suggested minimum dose is 4.5 mg/lb (10.0 mg/kg) imidacloprid and 0.45 mg/lb (1.0 mg/kg) moxidectin (once in a month), by topical administration.
Brand Names
Advantage Multi, AdvocateAceprom, acetylpromazine, Combistress, Neurotranq, Promace and Vetranquil.