Generic Name
Ivermectin (eye-ver-mek’-tin) Plus

Brand Name(s)
Iverhart Plus (Virbac)

What is this medication used for
Iverhart Plus is an anthelminthic (dewormer) combined with pyrantel pamoate used for the prevention of heartworm disease, roundworm and hookworm in dogs.

Availability
Iverhart Plus available by prescription as beef flavored chewable tablets.

How this medicine should be used
Iverhart Plus is given once a month year round for the prevention of heartworm disease. The usual dose of Iverhart plus in dogs up to 25 pounds is 68mcg/57mg, for 26-50 pounds is 136mcg/114mg and for 51-100 pounds is 272mcg/227mg. Dogs over 100 pounds are given a combination of tablets. The chewable tablets should be chewed. They are not meant to be swallowed whole. For dogs that normally swallow treats whole, the tablet can be broken into pieces. As an alternate to year round dosing, this medication can be given during the mosquito season and for one month after the season ends.

What are the side effects
The side effects of Iverhart Plus are rare at the recommended heartworm prevention dose. Higher doses in dogs may cause tremors, dilated pupils, and loss of body weight or death. Side effects in cats include agitation, loss of appetite, staggering, dilated pupils, tremors, blindness and disorientation.

What special precautions are there
This medication should not be used in animals allergic to it. Use with caution in Collies. Heartworm testing should be performed prior to the start of prevention therapy. If the animal is off Iverhart Plus for 6 months or less, start the medication and test after 6 months since microfilaria, that take 6 months to mature, will result in a positive test result. Because humans can contract roundworm, hookworm and tapeworm from animals, it is important to maintain good personal hygiene. It is also important to eliminate fleas on the pet and in the household and to not feed the pet rodents or uncooked meat or fish. To prevent reinfection, daily cleanup of stools is recommended.

In the event of an overdose
Contact your veterinarian or veterinary emergency room. Symptoms of overdose may include vomiting, diarrhea, and incoordination in dogs. The symptoms of overdose in cats may include disorientation, tremors, incoordination, and blindness.

How should I store this medication
Keep this medication in the original box. Do not remove the tablet from the wrapper until ready to give the medicine. Store this medicine at room temperature. Keep this medication out of the reach of children and pets.

This information sheet is for educational purposes only and is intended to be a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise and professional judgment of your veterinarian. The information is NOT to be used for diagnosis or treatment of your pet. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the treatment of your pet.

The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, allergic reactions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for your pet. It is not a substitute for a veterinary exam, and it does not replace the need for services provided by your veterinarian.