Interceptor Plus for Dogs
Brand: Elanco
Interceptor Plus is a broad-spectrum, prescription-only monthly chewable tablet designed to protect dogs against heartworm disease and treat or control multiple common intestinal parasite infections.
This product is intended for dogs.
Overview
Interceptor Plus is a powerful veterinary pharmaceutical manufactured by Elanco, specifically formulated to provide comprehensive protection against heartworm disease, a life-threatening condition caused by the parasite Dirofilaria immitis. Unlike single-spectrum Heartgard Plus, which primarily addresses heartworms and specific roundworms, Interceptor Plus utilizes a unique dual-active ingredient profile to offer a much wider range of parasite defense. By combining milbemycin oxime and praziquantel, this product ensures that dogs are shielded not only from heartworms transmitted by mosquitoes but also from various worms that inhabit the gastrointestinal tract. This makes it a popular choice for veterinarians who prefer a broad-spectrum approach compared to older options like Interceptor Flavor Tabs.
What It's For
- Heartworm prevention: Kills the tissue stages of heartworms to prevent mature infestations.
- Roundworm treatment/control: Effectively targets Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonina.
- Hookworm treatment/control: Targets Ancylostoma caninum to prevent anemia and intestinal distress.
- Whipworm treatment/control: Eliminates Trichuris vulpis, which can be difficult to clear with other products.
- Tapeworm treatment/control: Specifically adds coverage for Taenia pisiformis, Echinococcus multilocularis, and Echinococcus granulosus.
How To Use
Interceptor Plus is administered as a monthly flavored chewable tablet that can be given directly as a treat or hidden in a small amount of food. The dosing must be based on the dog's exact body weight, as established by a veterinarian during a physical examination and diagnostic testing. It is critical that the medication is given consistently once every 30 days throughout the entire year to ensure uninterrupted protection against heartworm larvae that may be present in the environment. If a dose is missed, it should be administered as soon as it is remembered, and the monthly dosing schedule should be resumed immediately. Owners should ensure the entire tablet is consumed to guarantee the full therapeutic dosage is ingested. Because it is highly palatable, most dogs accept the chewable readily, but if a dog spits out a portion of the tablet, the full dose cannot be confirmed and veterinary guidance should be sought.
Precautions
Before starting Interceptor Plus, all dogs must be tested for existing heartworm infection by a licensed veterinarian. Administering a heartworm preventative to an infected dog can result in a severe reaction as the medication kills circulating microfilariae. Interceptor Plus is approved for use in dogs and puppies at least six weeks of age and weighing two pounds or more. While generally well-tolerated, some dogs may experience side effects such as vomiting, depression, lethargy, or loss of appetite. Owners should contact their veterinarian immediately if these symptoms occur or persist. There are no known major drug contraindications, but full medical history should always be disclosed to the prescribing doctor before use.
Key Benefits
- Broad-spectrum coverage: Treats and controls five different types of intestinal worms in addition to heartworm prevention.
- High palatability: The chicken-flavored chew is designed to be accepted easily by even picky eaters.
- Proven safety: Milbemycin oxime has a long history of safety in canine populations when used as directed.
- Complete deworming: The addition of praziquantel ensures that tapeworm coverage is included, unlike many other heartworm preventatives like [Iverhart Plus](/products/iverhart-plus-for-dogs) or [Tri-Heart Plus](/products/tri-heart-plus-for-dogs).
Frequently Asked Questions
This information is educational only. Always consult a licensed veterinarian before using new products on your pet.