Medication for Heartworms in Dogs

Heartworms, or Dirofilaria Immitis, are large worms that may grow to be up to ten inches long. They appear spaghetti-like, and may live inside the hearts of dogs for years. Heartworms can cause serious illness and are potentially fatal if not treated. Fortunately, a number of medications for heartworms in dogs exist, both for prevention and treatment of existing infestations. Heartworm medications may result in severe side effects, which makes it essential to have your dog fully evaluated before treatment begins.

Identification

Newly acquired cases of heartworms in dogs generally cause no symptoms. Mild cases may produce a cough and a reluctance to exercise. While severe cases typically cause coughing, marked shortness of breath, weight loss, abdominal swelling, fainting, fever and death.

Function

Medications are taken to slowly kill the worms and prevent the worms from moving and blocking the lungs or heart, and then additional medication is prescribed to kill any remaining microfilariae.

Warning

Medication for heartworms in dogs may cause serious side effects. Blood tests must be performed before treatment begins in order to assess liver and kidney function.

Considerations

In severe infestations, or when the heart is involved, surgical removal of adult heartworms may be chosen over the administration of medications for heartworms in dogs.

Prevention/Solution

Your dog must be thoroughly examined and diagnosed free of heartworms before preventative medications, which are generally taken seasonally and by mouth, are prescribed.