Heartgard ^® Plus Chewables (Brand) by Merial

What is Heartgard Plus?
Heartgard Plus is a monthly oral pet med used as a combination heartworm preventive and intestinal wormer.

Who is it for?
Dogs and puppies over 6 weeks of age. Safe for pregnant/breeding females.

What are the benefits?

How does Heartgard Plus work?
Heartgard Plus is used in the prevention of heartworm infection and the control and treatment of various other worm infections. It kills the immature form of the heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis), which is transmitted by a mosquito. It is also used for the treatment and control of hookworms (Ancylostoma caninum, A. brasiliense, and Uncinaria stenocephala) and roundworms (ascarids - Toxocara canis, Toxascaris leonina).

Heartgard Plus contains two active ingredients: ivermectin, which interferes with the parasite's nerve transmission, causing paralysis and death of the immature heartworms (larvae), and pyrantel pamoate, which also interferes with the parasite's nerve transmission, causing paralysis and death of intestinal worms.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
Yes, PetTrust Plus, Tri-Heart Plus and Iverhart Plus are branded generic alternatives to Heartgard Plus and should be interchangeable as long as the doctor does not indicate "dispense as written".

How is it given?
Heartgard Plus must be administered monthly, preferably on the same date each month. Drs. Foster and Smith recommends (and our guarantee requires) that Heartgard Plus be given year round, although some veterinarians may recommend giving it only during the mosquito season. If given seasonally, the first dose must be given within 30 days of the dog's first exposure to mosquitoes. The last dose must be given within 30 days after the dog's last exposure to mosquitoes.

Most dogs like the taste of Heartgard Plus and will accept the chewable like a treat. The chewable should be administered in a manner that encourages the dog to chew, rather than to swallow without chewing. Heartgard Plus Chewables may be broken into pieces and fed to dogs that normally swallow treats whole. Care should be taken that the dog consumes the complete dose, and treated animals should be observed for a few minutes after administration to ensure that part of the dose is not lost or rejected. If not entirely consumed, give another full recommended dose as soon as possible.

What results can I expect?
Heartgard Plus will kill the immature heartworms the dog was exposed to in the preceding month. It will treat an intestinal infection with adult hookworms and roundworms.

What form(s) does it come in?
Chewables

Please click on "More Information" for possible drug and food interactions with this medication.

Pronunciation
Heart Guard Plus

Common Drug Name
Ivermectin plus pyrantel pamoate

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Heartgard Plus?
Talk to your veterinarian about the heartworm testing that is recommended before starting your dog on a heartworm prevention program.

Collies or other herding breeds may have a reaction to ivermectin if given over the recommended heartworm prevention dose. If your dog is one of these breeds, and your veterinarian has prescribed Heartgard Plus, observe your pet for at least 8 hours after giving the medication for weakness, staggering, dilated pupils, trembling, drooling, or pressing the head against a wall. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you see these signs.

Some intestinal parasites, such as hookworms and roundworms can be spread to people. Talk to your veterinarian about other measures you can take to prevent your pet from being infected with intestinal worms, and protecting yourself.

Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your dog is taking, and also if your dog has had any reactions to previous medications.

What should I do if I miss a dose?
If a dose is missed and over 30 days have gone by since the last dose, give Heartgard Plus immediately and resume a monthly dosing schedule. Tell your veterinarian that a dose was missed.

What is the most important information I should know?
If the interval between doses is longer than one month, the efficacy of the drug is reduced.

Who should not take it?
Do not use in puppies less than 6 weeks of age. Considered to be safe to use in pregnant and lactating animals (female animals nursing their young).

Collies and herding breeds may have a reaction to Heartgard Plus.

This medication should only be given to the pet for which it was prescribed.

What side effects may be seen when taking Heartgard Plus?
Side effects of Heartgard Plus are very rare, but may include vomiting and diarrhea. Even more uncommon are incoordination, convulsions, or drooling. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you observe any of these side effects.

How is it stored?
Store between 68°F-77°F (20°C-25°C). Short time periods between 59°F-86°F (15°C-30°C) are permitted. Protect product from light. The chewable form of the drug is appealing to pets and children. Store in a secure area to prevent an accidental overdose. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, or if you observe diarrhea, vomiting, incoordination, convulsions or drooling, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What should I avoid when giving my pet Heartgard Plus?
Although there are no known drug or food interactions with this medication, consult with your veterinarian before using Heartgard Plus with any other medications, including vitamins and supplements, since interactions may occur.

Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the Patient Information Sheet on this medication. For technical assistance or to report suspected adverse reactions, call the manufacturer, Merial, at 1-888-637-4251.