Moxidectin Dosage Calculator for Dogs
Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian.
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Moxidectin Dosage For Dogs is a prescription macrocyclic lactone antiparasitic drug that is primarily used to prevent heartworm disease (Dirofilaria immitis) in dogs and treat or control some intestinal parasites, particularly hookworms. Depending on the veterinary product, it may also help to control roundworms and/or give broad-spectrum protection against parasites when used with other active ingredients. Moxidectin medication for dogs has received FDA approval for veterinary use and is available in various formulations such as oral, topical, and long-acting injectable.
Moxidectin dose alone will not kill fleas or ticks, but it is also added to other products to be used concurrently, including ProHeart®, Advantage Multi® and Simparica Trio®. Combination products provide protection against several parasites — depending on the combination, these may include heartworms, fleas, ticks, hookworms, and roundworms. For this reason, Moxidectin plays a vital role in several veterinary-all-in-one parasite prevention regimens.
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Moxidectin's mechanism of action is to disrupt the nervous system of susceptible parasites, leading to their paralysis and death, but is safe for dogs when applied at the recommended rate. Because of safety concerns, the injectable form was temporarily pulled from the market but was reintroduced after undergoing extensive safety testing by the FDA. Research also has demonstrated that moxidectin products approved for the purpose, used in accordance with manufacturer's instructions, are safe in Collies and Collie mixes.
The appropriate dose of moxidectin for dogs varies with the product, the dog's weight, and their age and condition. Varying formulations have different strengths and schedules, so only use moxidectin under the advice of a vet. This guide will provide you with recommended dosage information, dosing charts, approved uses, benefits, potential side effects, safety precautions, and helpful tips for safely and effectively dosing with moxidectin.
Key Takeaways
- Moxidectin dosage for dogs is a prescription anti-parasitic drug, used primarily to prevent heartworm disease in dogs.
- It also treats and controls hookworms and some combination products control roundworms.
- Products with moxidectin dosage alone are not effective at killing fleas or ticks, but may have flea and tick protection when combined with other active ingredients.
- Depending on the product, it can be given in topical, oral combination and long-acting injectable formulations.
- The proper dose for moxidectin for dogs depends on the product being used, and the individual dog's weight, age, and health condition.
- Moxidectin injection for dogs kills parasites by disrupting their nervous systems and causing the parasites to become paralyzed.
- Moxidectin products approved for use in dogs have been proven to be safe in Collies and Collie mixes when applied as per the label.
- It was withdrawn from the market but was re-introduced after thorough FDA safety testing.
- Never change from one moxidectin product to another, since the strength and timing of administration differ among moxidectin products.
- Moxidectin should be used only under veterinary supervision and to the prescribed dosage, to achieve maximum effectiveness and minimize side effects.
Moxidectin Dosage Chart for Dogs By Weight
This weight-based reference table is calculated using the standard canine dosage guidelines:
- Oral Moxidectin: 1.5 mcg per pound (3 mcg/kg) administered once monthly.
- Injectable Moxidectin: 0.023 mg per pound (0.05 mg/kg) administered intramuscularly every 6 months.
| Dog Weight (lbs) | Approx. Weight (kg) | Oral Dosage (mcg)Once Monthly | Injectable Dosage (mg)Every 6 Months |
| 5 lbs | 2.3 kg | 7.5 mcg | 0.115 mg |
| 10 lbs | 4.5 kg | 15 mcg | 0.230 mg |
| 20 lbs | 9.1 kg | 30 mcg | 0.460 mg |
| 30 lbs | 13.6 kg | 45 mcg | 0.690 mg |
| 40 lbs | 18.1 kg | 60 mcg | 0.920 mg |
| 50 lbs | 22.7 kg | 75 mcg | 1.150 mg |
| 60 lbs | 27.2 kg | 90 mcg | 1.380 mg |
| 70 lbs | 31.8 kg | 105 mcg | 1.610 mg |
| 80 lbs | 36.3 kg | 120 mcg | 1.840 mg |
| 90 lbs | 40.8 kg | 135 mcg | 2.070 mg |
| 100 lbs | 45.4 kg | 150 mcg | 2.300 mg |
Important Reminder: Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian. The exact duration and plan depend entirely on the specific condition being treated and your dog's individual health profile. Always complete the entire treatment plan prescribed by your vet to prevent resistance or relapse.
What Is Moxidectin, and How Does It Work?
Moxidectin Dosage for Dogs by weight is a prescription antiparasitic drug that is used in dogs to prevent heartworm disease and treat or control several internal parasites including hookworms, roundworms and (in topical formulation) whipworms. It can be used in topical products (e.g., imidacloprid) or long-acting injectable products. Moxidectin also doesn't kill fleas, but topical combination products contain this ingredient in addition to other chemicals that do.
Dog Moxidectin Medication is highly effective at killing immature heartworm larvae (Dirofilaria immitis) before they mature into adult heartworms, so it is highly recommended for heartworm prevention. It is not however a treatment for an existing heartworm disease as it does not kill the adult heartworms. Some products also have been approved to treat the immature larval (microfilarial) stage of heartworms that circulate in the bloodstream.
Besides heartworm prevention, moxidectin is effective in treating and controlling hookworms, roundworms and some topical products are labeled for whipworms. It is also effective for treating sarcoptic mange in dogs, and the injectable products, ProHeart 6® and ProHeart 12®, offer effective heartworm protection for 6 months and 12 months, respectively, and are also effective for the treatment of hookworm.
In certain instances, moxidectin is prescribed “off label” with doxycycline as part of a treatment program for adult heartworm disease. This use is not listed on the label, so this should be done in close consultation with a veterinarian on his or her direction.
Uses of Moxidectin for Dogs
Moxidectin dose is a broad-spectrum anti-parasitic drug, which is indicated to prevent and control multiple internal and some external parasites in dogs. Its main use is to prevent heartworm disease, but depending on the formulation, many veterinary products containing moxidectin are also effective against other common parasites.
Moxidectin is commonly used to:
- Prevent heartworm disease
- To treat and prevent hookworm infection
- Control roundworms
- Control whipworms (in approved products)
- Be effective against some mites (in approved products)
Moxidectin alone does not kill tapeworms, fleas, or ticks. But it is also used together with imidacloprid in some veterinary products for the protection against flea and for wider spectrum of parasites. Note that the different formulations are good for different parasites and follow your veterinarian's instructions.
Precautions and Side Effects of Moxidectin for Dogs
Moxidectin dosage is a safe and effective drug when used under the direction of a veterinarian, however as with all medications, some individual dogs may experience side effects. Reactions are usually mild and transient, particularly if the product is applied according to the instructions. But occasionally the allergic response is serious, and drugs can cause sensitivities, especially with injectable preparations; thus, monitoring after every dose is recommended.
Common Side Effects
The side effects are usually mild and can include:
- Low energy level or lethargy
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Excessive salivation
- Stumbling or loss of coordination (ataxia)
Dogs may also suffer from the followings when being administered injectable moxidectin:
Some redness, itching, swelling or irritation around the place where the needle was inserted
If it gets in your mouth, some other symptoms might be:
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- Depression
- Dilated pupils
- Panting
- Muscle tremors
- Increased salivation
- Incoordination
These effects usually pass within 24 hours in healthy dogs, and if the effect is due to accidental ingestion it should pass.
Serious Side Effects
This is rare, but if your dog does develop the following, take him to the vet right away:
- Trouble breathing, collapse or seizures
- Swelling of face, skin rash, or extreme itching
- Pale gums
- Fever
- More thirsty or urinates more
- If vomiting or diarrhea is a lot or if it is bloody
- Bleeding or bruising that doesn't seem to have a cause.
- If you continue to lose interest in eating or lose weight
In rare cases, there may be serious allergic reactions (including anaphylaxis) or drug sensitivities, which can be fatal.
Precautions
Here are some precautions to consider before applying moxidectin:
- Do not use unless the dog has a negative heartworm test because it might cause a severe shock-like reaction in a heartworm-positive dog.
- Do not use in dogs with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to moxidectin.
- Sick, weak, underweight or with low body fat may be more susceptible to side effects.
- Caution in dogs with kidney or liver disease, pre-existing allergic conditions or if they are on certain other medications or vaccinations.
- Moxidectin has not been fully evaluated in pregnant, lactating or breeding dogs and should be used with caution under a veterinarian's supervision.
- ProHeart® 6 should not be given to puppies younger than 6 months of age and ProHeart® 12 should not be given to dogs younger than 12 months of age.
- Only give moxidectin injection to your dog if it is given by a trained veterinarian.
Breed Sensitivity and Drug Interactions
Certain breeds may be more susceptible to moxidectin, especially the Collies, Sheepdogs and crosses of these breeds, due to a defect in a gene in this breed that lowers the tolerance to high doses of the product (MDR1/ABCB1 gene mutation).
When used as directed, however, approved doses of heartworm prevention are safe for MDR1-affected dogs. Since moxidectin may interact with other medications, it is important to ensure that your veterinarian is aware of any medication or supplements your dog is taking prior to starting moxidectin treatment.
Are There Any Drug Interactions I Should Be Aware Of?
Moxidectin has not been known to cause any significant drug interactions when used as indicated. However, some medications may pose a higher risk of adverse reactions or may need more careful monitoring, particularly in dogs being treated with injectable moxidectin or in those that have a genetic mutation in the MDR1 (ABCB1) gene.
There are some medications that may interact with Moxidectin.
If your dog is on: Please use moxidectin with care.
- Benzodiazepines
- Cyclosporine (Atopica®)
- Itraconazole or ketoconazole
- Spinosad (Comfortis®)
- Clarithromycin or erythromycin
- Amiodarone
- Carvedilol
- Spironolactone
- Tamoxifen
- Verapamil or diltiazem
Due to the effect of the mutation on the transport of some drugs in the body, dogs with the mutation may be more susceptible to moxidectin and these medications. Extra caution and close veterinary supervision is recommended in these dogs.
When you begin moxidectin dose, be sure to inform your veterinarian of any other medications, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products your dog is taking. This can prevent possible drug interactions and provide the most safe treatment options for your pet.
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FAQs
What's moxidectin Dosage for dogs?
The main use for moxidectin is to prevent heartworm disease. Depending on the product it may be used to treat and/or control hookworms, roundworms, whipworms, and some mites. With some combination products, flea protection is also offered in addition to other active ingredients.
How do you administered moxidectin to a dog?
There are 2 formulations of moxidectin: topical and long acting injectable. Injected products (like ProHeart® 6 and ProHeart® 12) should be given by a veterinarian or trained veterinary staff every six or 12 months, depending on the product.
Should I watch my dog closely while he is taking moxidectin?
Yes. Before starting moxidectin medication for dogs, particularly injectables, it is recommended that dogs be tested for heartworms. Your veterinarian may also request rechecks to make sure that the medication is effective and to keep track of any side effects.
If I forget to take my dose of moxidectin what do I do?
If a topical dose is missed, administer it as soon as possible and start a new monthly course on the date of the missed dose. Avoid giving 2 doses at the same time. If your dog misses a scheduled injectable, call your veterinarian right away; depending on the time of the missed dose, further testing may be necessary if there was a gap in the protection.
What is the proper storage for moxidectin?
Store topical moxidectin dose or injection at 4°C to 25°C (39°F to 77°F). Moxidectin injectable does not have to be stored at home, it is kept and given by your veterinarian.
How do I know if my dog has an overdose or adverse reaction?
Call your vet right away if you think there may be an overdose or adverse reaction. If you don't have a veterinary clinic, please contact emergency veterinary services. Have information ready regarding what product was used, your dog's weight and what symptoms were observed.
How long does it take for moxidectin to work?
Moxidectin starts to work within 1-2 days of being given. It begins to kill susceptible parasites and prevent heartworm infection, but, since the treatment is internal, you can't see a change.
Final Thoughts
Moxidectin Medication for dogs is a reliable prescription antiparasitic drug that helps to prevent heartworm disease in dogs and also treats or controls a few of the most common intestinal parasites. It comes in various formulations in different strengths and with different dosing schedules, so be sure to use it exactly as your vet directs.
The proper dosage of moxidectin for dogs can ensure comprehensive protection against parasites with minimal side effects. Always change dosage or alternate products under veterinary supervision. If your dog is not taken the medication as scheduled, develops unusual symptoms or you have questions about your dog's treatment plan, please contact your veterinarian immediately to keep your pet healthy and protected all year round.
