What Is Interceptor for Dogs?

Interceptor is a popular veterinary drug that is used to treat and prevent parasites in dogs. Like all drugs, it has both benefits and potential side effects. Being a responsible dog owner means educating yourself about the drugs you give your dog. While the drug is generally easy to administer and safe in the vast majority of cases, dog owners must keep an eye out for certain reactions.

Composition

The chemical milbemycin oxime is the active ingredient in Interceptor for Dogs, which is made by Novartis Animal Health U.S. Inc. In addition to milbemycin oxime, Interceptor tablets contain inactive ingredients that help the tablet stick together, and flavorings that make them easier to give to your dog.

How It Works

Interceptor is used to prevent your dog from getting infested with intestinal worms or heartworms. It kills immature heartworms, as well as adult roundworms, hookworms and ringworms. Your vet may also prescribe higher-than-normal doses of Interceptor to treat some cases of mange, a skin condition usually caused by microscopic mites. Interceptor is believed to kill parasites by blocking the transmission of nerve signals. This short-circuits their nervous systems and kills them.

Dosing

Interceptor is given orally, once a month. You should give the tablets on the same day each month if possible. Since Interceptor tablets are beef-flavored, dogs think they are getting a treat and giving them the tablets is usually easy. Make sure your dog eats the whole tablet. If she refuses the Interceptor tablet, you can hide the pills in special treats or coat the tablet in peanut butter. The correct dosing is determined by the weight of the dog. Your vet will help you find the appropriate dose for your dog.

Side Effects

Most dogs are able to take Interceptor without experiencing any side effects. However, some dogs are more sensitive than others. Side effects that some dogs experience include depression, lack of energy, lack of coordination, excessive drooling, loss of muscle strength, an inability to keep food down and sometimes seizures. Some dogs are also allergic to Interceptor, or may have an allergic reaction to the dying parasites in their system. How can you tell if your dog is allergic? Watch for the following symptoms: a sudden skin rash, itching and scratching, pale gums, a swollen face and sudden bouts of nausea. You also may notice your dog's legs and tail becoming abnormally cold. If you see any of these symptoms, get your dog back to the vet as soon as possible.

Contraindications

Interceptor is safe for most dogs, but some dogs shouldn't take it. Dogs need to be tested for heartworm before starting Interceptor, and dogs who have heartworm should be treated before they start taking it unless your veterinarian advises otherwise. Puppies need to be older than 4 weeks and weigh more than 2 pounds before they are given their first dose. Herding dogs, such as border collies, are especially sensitive to Interceptor. They typically do fine at the normal dose, but when given the higher doses used to treat mange they can suffer from neurological side effects like trembling, weakness, loss of strength and coordination, and fever.