Iverhart Max^® (Brand)

What is Iverhart Max?
Iverhart Max kills the immature form of the heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) in dogs and puppies. It is also used for the treatment and control of hookworms (Ancylostoma caninum, A. brasiliense, and Uncinaria stenocephala), roundworms (ascarids - Toxocara canis, Toxascaris leonina) and tapeworms.

Who is it for?
For dogs and puppies 8 weeks of age and over. The safe use of this product has not been evaluated in pregnant or nursing dogs.

What are the benefits?

How does Iverhart Max work?
Iverhart Max is used in the prevention, control, and treatment of various worm infections. Iverhart Max contains three 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 nerve transmission in worms, causing paralysis and death of roundworms and hookworms. Death of intestinal worms occurs when they are passed into the environment. Praziquantel, the third ingredient is thought to damage the parasite's skin causing death of the tapeworm.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
No.

How is it given?
Iverhart Max must be administered monthly, preferably on the same date each month. Drs. Foster and Smith recommends (and our guarantee requires) that Iverhart Max 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 Iverheart Max and will accept the chewable tablet as a treat. The chewable should be administered in a manner that encourages the dog to chew, rather than to swallow without chewing. Iverhart Max 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?
Iverhart Max will kill the immature heartworms the dog was exposed to in the preceding month. It will treat an intestinal infection with adult hookworms, tapeworms and roundworms.

What form(s) does it come in?
Chewable Tablet

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

Brand Name
Iverhart Max

Pronunciation
Eye-Ver-Heart Max

Common Drug Name
Ivermectin plus pyrantel pamoate and praziquantel

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Iverhart Max?
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 Iverhart Max, 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 Iverhart Max 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 cats, or in puppies less than 8 weeks of age. Use with caution in dogs less than 10 pounds. The safe use of this product has not been evaluated in pregnant or nursing dogs.

Collies and herding breeds may have a reaction to Iverhart Max.

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

What side effects may be seen when taking Iverhart Max?
Side effects of Iverhart Max are uncommon, but may include drooling, weakness, shaking, diarrhea, licking lips, vomiting, and burping. Even more uncommon are lack of coordination or convulsions. If you observe any of these side effects, contact your veterinary immediately.

How is it stored?
Iverhart Max should be protected from light and stored in a dry place at room temperature, between 59°F and 86°F. 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 Iverhart Max?
Although there are no known drug or food interactions with this medication, consult with your veterinarian before using Iverhart Max 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, Virbac, at 1-800-338-3659.