Heartworm medicine for dogs helps prevent heartworm infection and parasites. There are several such thoroughly tested medications currently available that are effective against canine heartworm disease. The two main ingredients of heartworm medication are Ivermectin and Pyrantel although some medications only contain Ivermectin.
Heartworm Medication for Dogs
The Ivermectin contained in heartworm medications is anti-parasitic and is very effective against several types of parasites. The other ingredient, Pyrantel, is essentially used for deworming purposes and to rid your pet of hookworms and roundworms. Dogs over the age of 6 weeks should be given heartworm medication on a monthly basis to ensure that they never test positive for heartworm disease.
Generic Heartworm Medication for Dogs
Generic heartworm medications are substitutes for brand name medications. Such medications have the same chemical composition at the same strength and are supposed to be taken in the same dosage as the brand medication. You should follow the same safety precautions to ensure that your pet is safe and healthy.
Such generic medications are manufactured to preempt patent expiry. The parameters for the approval of generic medications by the FDA are the same as those for the innovator brand.
Advantages of Using Generic Heartworm Medication for Dogs:
- Generic medications are less expensive than brand medications. They can save you nearly half the money you would spend if you were to buy brand medication.
- The medication is the same as brand medication and contains the same ingredients in the same dosage. They therefore provide the same protection against heartworms as brand medications.
- Their production requires the manufacturer to adhere to the same regulations as the manufacturers who produce brand medications.
- Generic medications are reliable, safe and effective in preventing heartworm disease in dogs of all breeds above the age of 6 weeks.
- They are convenient to buy as a prescription isn’t required for purchase. You can even buy them online.
Disadvantages of Using Generic Heartworm Medication for Dogs
Veterinarians prescribe branded medications as they are sure of the quality of the medicine that will be administered. Branded medications contain a definite amount of Ivermectin and Pyrantel. Generic medications may contain varying amounts of the principal ingredients. This can make it difficult to administer the correct dose and can lead to complications.
You should check the label carefully as your pet might be allergic to some of the ingredients that are present in generic medications. You should also strictly follow the instructions regarding dosage in order to avoid the risk of complications.
Generic medication for heartworm in dogs is sufficient if you want to keep your pet safe and protected from heartworm disease. However, if you want to also protect him from intestinal parasites, fleas and mites, you should opt for a branded formula. You should first have your dog tested for heartworm infection and only then administer the generic medication in order to ensure prevention of the infection.