Ensuring your beloved canine and feline companions are protected from common parasites is a crucial aspect of responsible pet ownership. Among the various preventative medications available, Interceptor® and Interceptor® Plus stand out as popular choices for many pet parents. These monthly medications offer a vital line of defense against serious health threats like heartworms and other internal parasites. This comprehensive guide, drawing from veterinary expertise, will delve into what Interceptor® and Interceptor® Plus are, how they work, and essential information for their safe and effective use.
What are Interceptor® and Interceptor® Plus?
Interceptor® is a monthly oral medication formulated with the active ingredient milbemycin oxime. Its primary purpose is to prevent heartworm disease in both dogs and cats.
For dogs, Interceptor® offers broader protection by also controlling hookworms and treating/controlling roundworms and whipworms. It is suitable for dogs and puppies weighing more than 2 pounds and are at least 4 weeks old.
In cats, Interceptor® aids in treating roundworms and hookworms, and is indicated for cats and kittens weighing over 1.5 pounds and aged 6 weeks or older.
Interceptor® Plus, on the other hand, contains two active ingredients: milbemycin oxime and praziquantel. This combination provides comprehensive protection against heartworm disease, and also treats and controls hookworms, roundworms, whipworms, and tapeworms. Interceptor® Plus is intended for dogs and puppies weighing more than 2 pounds and older than 6 weeks of age.
How These Medications Work
The efficacy of Interceptor® and Interceptor® Plus hinges on their active ingredients. Milbemycin oxime, present in both formulations, works by increasing the permeability of the parasite’s cell membrane to chloride ions. This influx of chloride disrupts the parasite’s nervous system, leading to paralysis and subsequent death in susceptible worms such as heartworms, roundworms, and hookworms.
Interceptor® Plus incorporates praziquantel to combat tapeworms. While the exact mechanism of praziquantel is not fully understood, it is believed to disrupt the tapeworm’s cellular integrity, causing paralysis.
Administration Guidelines
Both Interceptor® and Interceptor® Plus are administered orally once a month. They can be given with or without food, and the chewable tablet can be broken into smaller pieces for easier administration. It is important to ensure that the chewable is fully consumed and not swallowed whole. If your pet does not consume the entire chewable, it is recommended to administer a new one.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose
If you miss a dose, administer it as soon as you remember. The medication is designed for monthly administration, so aim to keep the schedule as close to every 30 days as possible. If your veterinarian has prescribed a different dosing schedule, contact them for specific instructions regarding missed doses. Crucially, do not administer extra or double doses.
Potential Side Effects
While generally well-tolerated, some pets may experience side effects. These are uncommon but can include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Lack of coordination
- Drooling
- Weakness
- Convulsions
- Salivation
It’s important to note that these medications are not intended for human use. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact a physician or the national Poison Control Center hotline immediately.
Monitoring and Testing
Before initiating treatment with Interceptor® or Interceptor® Plus, it is recommended that all pets undergo testing for existing heartworm infections. For dogs with pre-existing heartworm disease, treatment to eliminate adult heartworms should be completed before starting these preventative medications. Administering Interceptor® to heartworm-positive dogs can lead to an allergic reaction due to the death of microfilariae. The safety of Interceptor® in heartworm-positive cats is currently unknown. Your veterinarian may recommend other specific monitoring or routine testing based on your pet’s individual health needs.
When to Contact Your Veterinarian
You should contact your veterinarian immediately if you observe any of the following:
- Severe side effects (as listed above).
- Your pet’s condition worsens or does not improve.
- Signs of an overdose.
- You have any additional questions or concerns about the medication.
Overdose Information
Symptoms of an overdose with Interceptor® or Interceptor® Plus often include vomiting, incoordination, lethargy, drooling, and tremors. In the event of a suspected overdose, seek immediate veterinary care from your veterinarian, an emergency veterinary clinic, or an animal poison control center. Consultation fees may apply.
- Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435
Storage Recommendations
Interceptor® and Interceptor® Plus should be stored at a controlled room temperature between 59-77°F (15-25°C). To protect the medication from moisture and light, keep it in its original blister pack until it’s time for administration. Always keep these medications out of reach of children and pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Interceptor® and Interceptor® Plus for dogs?
Interceptor® Plus includes praziquantel, an additional active ingredient that provides enhanced efficacy against intestinal parasites, specifically offering protection against tapeworms, which Interceptor® alone does not cover.
Can Interceptor® Plus and Bravecto® be given concurrently?
Yes, Interceptor® Plus and Bravecto® can often be safely administered together in most dogs. Interceptor® Plus focuses on heartworm and internal parasites, while Bravecto® targets external parasites like fleas and ticks. It is essential to consult with your veterinarian to determine the most appropriate and comprehensive parasite prevention plan for your pet.
How long does Interceptor® Plus remain in a dog’s system?
Interceptor® Plus is administered monthly for the prevention of heartworm and intestinal parasites. After oral administration, its effects typically last for one to two days within the dog’s system.
Content for this article was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals and sourced from publicly available information and manufacturer data. It does not replace professional veterinary advice.
Featured Image: iStock.com/Evrymmnt
WRITTEN BY
Stephanie Howe, DVMVeterinarian
Dr. Stephanie Howe graduated from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in 2011, after receiving a Bachelor of Science…
