Injectable Ivermectin for Dogs: Essential Information for Dog Owners

Overview of Injectable Ivermectin for Dogs

Injectable Ivermectin is a broad-spectrum antiparasitic medication commonly used in veterinary medicine to treat various parasitic infections in dogs. It will provide management and protection against heartworms, ear mites, or other parasites. The injection is a solution for pets who refuse to take the medication orally or to reduce the possible side effects of the oral medication.

 

What Does Ivermectin Treat in Dogs?

The drug is most commonly used in dogs for the prevention and treatment of heartworm disease. The parasitic worm Dirofilaria immitis, living in the heart and pulmonary arteries of dogs, causes this disease. The drug works by killing the heartworm larvae, preventing them from maturing into adults, which can cause disease. Other possible uses of Ivermectin injection in dogs include:

External Parasite Treatment: ear mites (sarcoptic mange and demodectic mange)

Internal Parasite treatment: roundworms, hookworms, capillaries

 

Effects of Ivermectin on Dogs

When ivermectin enters a dog’s body, it travels through the bloodstream. Parasites living within the dog are exposed to the ivermectin through the bloodstream. Susceptible parasites become paralyzed, causing them to die.

 

Dosage and Administration

The general rule for ivermectin dosage is 0.0015 – 0.003 mg per pound each month for heartworm prevention. For external parasite treatment, you can typically administer 0.15 mg per pound for two weeks and, for internal parasites, 0.1 mg per pound one time.

Besides, Ivermectin can be administered subcutaneously (under the skin) or intramuscularly (into the muscle). The specific route will depend on the formulation and the veterinarian’s recommendation.

*Warning

1. Some dog breeds are genetically sensitive to this medication. Their genetic mutation allows the ivermectin to pass through the dog’s blood-brain barrier. It then enters the dog’s central nervous system, which can be fatal to the animal. Before administering this to your dog, check with your veterinarian and make sure that your dog’s breed can safely use ivermectin.

2. It is not recommended to use ivermectin for dogs younger than six weeks of age or those without a recent negative heartworm test.

 

Cautions for Injectable Ivermectin Use in Dogs

1. While ivermectin is effective, it can cause toxicity if not used correctly. Overdoses can occur if a dog is given a dose intended for larger animals or if the dosage exceeds what is safe for the dog’s weight. Symptoms of toxicity may include neurological issues, and in severe cases, it can be fatal.

2. Certain breeds, particularly Collies and some mixed breeds, may be sensitive to ivermectin due to a genetic mutation affecting drug metabolism. Use caution and consult a veterinarian for these breeds.

3. Ivermectin shouldn’t be administered in conjunction with sedatives (i.e. Valium) or amitraz dips. If this happens, the dog may experience more serious side effects.

 

Is Ivermectin Injection Safe for Dogs?

For the most part, ivermectin is well-tolerated by dogs; however, some dogs can be sensitive to higher doses. Additionally, some dog breeds have a genetic mutation, called MDR1, that makes them particularly sensitive to ivermectin, making them more likely to show signs of toxicity.

 

Symptoms of Ivermectin Poisoning in Dogs

Symptoms of ivermectin toxicity in dogs can be acute or mild. Acute symptoms typically show up within 4 – 12 hours of ingesting the drug, while mild symptoms can show up in 2 – 3 days following ingestion. Symptoms of toxicity in dogs can include:

Upset stomach

Lethargy

Dilated pupils

Difficulty breathing

Vision trouble

Trembling and seizures

Loss of appetite

Increased saliva production

Disorientation

Vomiting

Diarrhea

Weight loss

Dehydration

Death

 

Which Dog Breeds Can Be Sensitive to Ivermectin?

The following types of dogs have been found to be prone to the mutation:

Australian Shepherd

Border Collie

Collie

German Shepherd Dog

Miniature American Shepherd

Old English Sheepdog

Shetland Sheepdog

Skye Terrier

Mixed-breeds that may have herding-breed heritage

Typically, the suggested doses for heartworm prevention are safe for these breeds, but it’s important to consult your veterinarian before giving your dog ivermectin.

 

Does Ivermectin Interact with any Other Dog Medications?

Interactions between ivermectin and other dog medications are rare. However, some interactions may occur in dogs receiving high doses of ivermectin. Medication interactions are also more common in dogs with the MDR1 mutation. The veterinarian will let you know if your dog is at risk for these interactions.

Tell your veterinarian about other medications your dog is receiving. These include prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and vitamins/supplements. Doing so can reduce the risk of potentially harmful interactions.

 

What Should You Do if Your Dog Misses a Dose of Ivermectin?

If you forget to give your dog a dose of ivermectin, give the missed dose as soon as you remember to do so. After that, continue giving ivermectin as recommended by the veterinarian. Do not give your dog a double dose of ivermectin.

If you forget to give your dog several doses of ivermectin, contact your veterinarian for guidance.

 

What is an Alternative to Injectable Ivermectin for Dogs?

An alternative to ivermectin for dogs is moxidectin. Moxidectin is a different type of macrocyclic lactone that is effective against heartworms. It is available in products such as ProHeart 6 and ProHeart 12, administered as a veterinarian’s injection. These products provide extended protection against heartworms and eliminate the need for monthly administration.

 

Conclusion

Injectable Ivermectin can be a valuable tool in preventing and managing parasitic infections in dogs, but it should always be used under the correct medication guidance to ensure safety and efficacy. If you have any other questions, welcome to contact Gneebio for further talking.