Are Interceptor Heartworm Pills Cold Sensitive?

Interceptor heartworm pills not only protect dogs and cats from heartworms, but prevent other intestinal parasites from taking hold. Heartworms are spread by mosquitoes and can be fatal to both dogs and cats, although humans are immune. Dosage for Interceptor depends on the size of the pet and the prevalence of mosquitoes in the area. Interceptor heartworm pills are not cold sensitive, although prolonged freezing should be avoided. Read on for more on Interceptor, including storage conditions and manufacturer information.

Considerations

Interceptor should be stored at normal room temperature, between 59° and 86°F (15-30°C). While they are not cold sensitive and freezing for a short while does not lessen their effectiveness, prolonged storage in very low or high temperatures should be avoided, according to the manufacturer, Novartis. For questions about Interceptor heartworm pills, call Novartis at 866-838-2368, or check the link below in Resources.

Function

The active ingredient in Interceptor is milbemycin oxime. This does not prevent mosquitoes from biting the pet, but given orally once a month, prevents microfilaria (immature heartworms) in the blood from maturing and lodging in the heart. Heartworms are a serious risk to pets, particularly dogs. Even pets who spend most of their time indoors are at risk, since mosquitoes are carriers and it takes just one bite to get infected. Interceptor also protects against roundworms and whipworms in dogs and cats.

Types

There are several types of heartworm medication. While Interceptor contains milbemycin oxime, the active ingredient in other medications is ivermectin. While dogs are most at risk, cats can also get heartworms so formulas are available for both cats and dogs. Some collies and collie mixes have a gene making them sensitive to ivermectin. There is a DNA test available to identify susceptible dogs, but it is expensive, so Interceptor is the heartworm preventative of choice for at--risk dogs.

Geography

Some areas, like much of the southeastern United States, are very high risk for dogs. Northern climates or very hot dry areas are less risky. Mosquitoes thrive in humid, warm climates and are prevalent around standing water. They are cold sensitive and stop breeding over winter when the temperatures dip below freezing. Talk to your vet about the risk and follow her recommendation.

Misconceptions

There are several misconceptions about heartworm disease and heartworm medications. All it takes is one bite by the wrong mosquito, so indoor dogs are also at risk. Long haired dogs are protected to a degree by their fur, but can still be bitten on the face or inner thighs. Some people think that feeding a natural diet or using herbal mosquito repellents will protect their dog, but no studies support this theory. Ivermectin has an extremely low risk of side effects, compared to the danger of heartworm disease. Even if a dog is on the monthly pills year around, an annual blood test is advisable. All it takes is for the dog to surreptitiously throw up a heartworm dose, and they're unprotected. Another misconception is that when the temperatures are low, the pet is not at risk. However, infected mosquitoes can be active indoors even though it is cold outside.

Prevention/Solution

Follow your vet's recommendation for Interceptor dosage amount and frequency. Store the medication at the recommended temperature, and make sure your pet does not have access to stored Interceptor, as it comes in a chewable lozenge that most pets consider treats.

Resources

• Novartis Interceptor product information