Iverhart Max vs Heartgard for Dogs Heartworm Prevention Medication For Dogs

Learn about the differences of Iverhart Max vs. Heartgard, both trusted heartworm prevention medications. Heartworms, a serious disease in dogs, are parasites transmitted to your pet through infected mosquitoes. They begin life as larvae in your dog’s skin before lodging in the heart as adult worms. Once there, the parasite causes blockage of the heart and blood vessels, resulting in lack of blood to the vital organs and if not treated, can even cause death.

Given these grave health problems, preventing these parasites is a must. Once clinical signs appear it can be too late for effective treatment. Medications such as Iverhart Max and Heartgard keep these terrible worms at bay.

Iverhart Max for Dogs

Iverhart Max is the latest heartworm medication available from the manufacturer Virbac. This anti-parasitic comes in a chewable, liver-flavored tablet that is given to your dog once a month.

Not only does Iverhart Max kill both developing and adult heartworms, the combination of ingredients in this medication also kills roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms. Iverhart Max is thus an all around treatment for common worm infections.

The Iverhart Max tablet comes in four sizes that are administered to your dog based on their weight. Each pill size contains a specially calibrated dosage of medicine for the most effective and safe use in dogs of every weight. Consult with your physician to determine the correct dosage for your dog.

Dogs and puppies can be treated with Iverhart Max when they are at least 8 weeks of age and at least 6 pounds in weight.

Heartgard Plus for Dogs

Merial, the manufacturer of Heartgard products, currently offers Heartgard Plus for the prevention of heartworms in dogs. The formulation offered with this medication kills not only heartworms but also roundworms and hookworms, making it an effective anti-parasite drug.

The Heartgard Plus tablet is made with real beef so dogs tend to eat the tablet readily. The medication is given to pets once a month. These tablets come in three different sizes, each with its own dosage. Your veterinarian will prescribe the correct dosage based on your dog’s weight.

Dogs and puppies can begin to be treated with Heartgard Plus at the age of 6 weeks.

Choosing between Iverhart Max and Heartgard

Iverhart Max (not Iverhart Plus Chewables, which are no longer available) covers tapeworm, which is transmitted by fleas, and Heartgard does not, so if fleas are especially prevalent in your area, Iverhart Max might be the better choice for you. Otherwise, both tablets should afford you peace of mind that your dog is protected from the serious health consequences of heartworm infection.

Medications for the prevention of heartworm such as Iverhart Max and Heartgard Plus can only be prescribed by your veterinarian. He or she will evaluate your dog’s health and determine if these medications are appropriate for your pet.

Once deemed safe and effective for your dog, the medication dosage will be assigned according to your pet’s weight. Your veterinarian will also determine your dog’s risk of exposure to other parasites and may use this information to choose between Iverhart Max or Heartgard Plus.

More on Heartworm Disease

Heartworm Medication: Comparison Chart
Cat Heartworm Treatments Comparison Guide
How To Prevent Heartworm in Dogs

This information is for informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for the professional advice of, or diagnosis or treatment by, your veterinarian with respect to your pet. It has, however, been verified by a licensed veterinarian for accuracy.