Welcoming a new pet into your family is an exciting time, and ensuring their health and well-being is paramount. Parasitic infections, particularly heartworms, can pose a serious threat to our beloved dogs and cats. Fortunately, medications like Interceptor® and Interceptor® Plus offer effective monthly prevention. This guide, drawing upon veterinary expertise, delves into what these medications are, how they work, and essential information for pet owners. PetMD’s medications content was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to provide accurate, reliable information.
What is Interceptor®?
Interceptor® is a monthly chewable medication formulated to prevent heartworm disease in both dogs and cats. Its active ingredient is milbemycin oxime.
For dogs, Interceptor® offers broader protection, also controlling hookworms and treating/controlling roundworms and whipworms. It is suitable for dogs and puppies weighing over 2 pounds and aged 4 weeks and older.
In cats, Interceptor® also treats roundworms and hookworms, and is appropriate for cats and kittens weighing over 1.5 pounds and aged 6 weeks and older.
What is Interceptor® Plus?
Interceptor® Plus is an advanced monthly medication that combines two active ingredients: milbemycin oxime and praziquantel. This dual-action formula provides comprehensive protection against heartworm disease and also treats and controls a wider range of intestinal parasites, including hookworms, roundworms, whipworms, and tapeworms. Interceptor® Plus is intended for dogs and puppies weighing over 2 pounds and aged 6 weeks and older.
How Interceptor® and Interceptor® Plus Work
The primary active ingredient in both Interceptor® and Interceptor® Plus is milbemycin oxime. This compound functions by increasing the cell membrane permeability to chloride ions. This shift in chloride ions disrupts the electrical activity within the nervous systems of susceptible parasites like heartworms, roundworms, and hookworms, leading to muscle paralysis and ultimately, death.
Praziquantel, the second active ingredient in Interceptor® Plus, specifically targets tapeworms. While its exact mechanism is not fully understood, it’s believed to disrupt the parasite’s muscle integrity, causing paralysis. This comprehensive approach ensures robust protection against various internal threats.
Administration and Dosing Instructions
Interceptor® and Interceptor® Plus are designed for easy oral administration once a month. They can be given with or without food. The chewable tablets can be broken into smaller pieces for pets that may have difficulty swallowing them whole. It is crucial to ensure that your pet consumes the entire chew to receive the full dose. If you suspect your pet did not finish the chew, it is recommended to administer a new one.
Missed Dose Protocol
If you forget to give a dose, administer it as soon as you remember. The ideal schedule is to maintain a monthly regimen, as close to every 30 days as possible. If your veterinarian has prescribed a different dosing schedule, consult them for specific instructions if a dose is missed. Never administer double doses to compensate for a missed one.
Potential Side Effects and Monitoring
While generally well-tolerated, some pets may experience uncommon side effects. These can include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, lack of coordination, drooling, weakness, convulsions, and salivation.
Important Note for Humans: These medications are for animal use only. If accidentally ingested by a person, contact a physician or the national Poison Control Center hotline immediately at 800-222-1222.
Crucial Monitoring Recommendations:
- Heartworm Testing: It is highly recommended that all pets be tested for existing heartworm infections before starting Interceptor® or Interceptor® Plus.
- Heartworm-Positive Dogs: Dogs with existing heartworm infections should undergo treatment to eliminate adult heartworms prior to resuming this medication. While Interceptor® can kill microfilariae (larval heartworms), dogs that are heartworm-positive may experience an allergic reaction to the dying microfilariae.
- Heartworm-Positive Cats: The safety of Interceptor® in heartworm-positive cats is currently unknown.
- Veterinary Consultation: Your veterinarian may recommend other specific monitoring or routine tests based on your pet’s individual health needs.
When to Contact Your Veterinarian:
- If severe side effects are observed.
- If your pet’s condition worsens or does not improve with treatment.
- If you suspect an overdose.
- If you have any additional questions or concerns regarding the medication.
Overdose Information
Symptoms of an overdose can include vomiting, incoordination, lethargy, drooling, and tremors. If you suspect your pet has ingested too much medication, contact your veterinarian immediately, seek emergency veterinary care, or call an animal poison control center. Consultation fees may apply.
- Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435
Storage Guidelines
Interceptor® and Interceptor® Plus should be stored at room temperature, between 59°F and 77°F (15°C and 25°C). Keep the medication in its original blister pack until administration to protect it from moisture and light. Always store these medications out of reach of children and pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Interceptor® and Interceptor® Plus for dogs?
The key difference lies in their active ingredients. Interceptor® Plus contains praziquantel in addition to milbemycin oxime, providing enhanced efficacy against tapeworms. Interceptor® alone targets heartworms, roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms.
Can Interceptor® Plus and Bravecto® be given concurrently?
Yes, Interceptor® Plus (for internal parasites) and Bravecto® (for external parasites like fleas and ticks) can often be safely administered together in dogs. However, it is always best to consult with your veterinarian to create a tailored prevention plan that addresses your pet’s specific needs.
How long does Interceptor® Plus remain effective in a dog’s system?
Interceptor® Plus is administered monthly for the prevention of heartworm and intestinal parasites. Once given orally, its effects typically last for 1-2 days within the dog’s system, providing ongoing protection throughout the month against the target parasites.
This content was developed by veterinary professionals and does not substitute for professional veterinary advice. Information is sourced from public data and manufacturers.
