Major Uses

Imidacloprid and moxidectin are two drugs that are used in combination to kill external parasites (e.g. fleas, ticks, mites) and internal parasites (e.g. intestinal worms, lungworms, heartworms). Imidacloprid attacks the nervous system in insects, which causes impairment and subsequently death. Moxidectin also affects the nervous system in parasites and protects against heartworms.

Common Precautions

Imidacloprid and moxidectin is not recommended for animals that are nursing, pregnant, debilitated, or geriatric. Irritation at the application site is possible. Imidacloprid and moxidectin is not recommended for kittens that are nine weeks of age or younger or puppies that are seven weeks of age or younger. The site of application may appear wet for up to 24 hours. If ingested, the medication might cause drooling due to its bitter taste. This drug should only be used for dogs that have a negative heartworm test. A potential severe shock-like reaction can occur for dogs that have a positive heartworm test. Negative side effects when using this drug include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and stumbling.

Imidacloprid and moxidectin should not be used in animals with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to the drug. Overdose of the medication is rare.

Storage

Imidacloprid and moxidectin should be stored in a dry, cool place and kept from freezing. The original pesticide container should carefully be disposed of.

Administration

Imidacloprid and moxidectin is available as a topical solution and typically comes in an applicator tube. The topical solution should be applied to the skin of the animal in between their shoulder blades and not on their coat. This prevents the animal from ingesting the medication by licking.

The doses depend on the weight of the cat or dog. For cats that are 2-5 lbs, tubes/ pipettes are available in 0.23 ml. For cats 5.1 to 9 lbs use 0.4 ml, 9.1 to 18 lbs use 0.8 ml and for cats that are over 18 lbs use the fitting combination of tubes. All topical doses are applied once monthly. For dogs, tubes/ pipettes are available in 0.4 ml (for dogs 3 to 9 lbs), 1 ml (for dogs 9.1 to 20 lbs), 2.5 ml (for dogs 20.1 to 55 lbs) and 4 ml (for dogs over 55.1 to 88 lbs). If a dog is over 88 lbs, a suitable combination of tubes should be used. One tube application is typically sufficient for 30 days. For both cats and dogs, the topical solution can be used more often with extreme infestations, but should not exceed once a week.

Doses may vary in different species, when the drug is given by a different route or concurrently with other medications, and with regards to a patient's age, breed, and health status. A veterinarian's dosing instructions and/or those printed on the medication label should be followed closely.

Disclaimer
This information is for general reference only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of any condition of your pet. It's intended as a general reference, this information may not include all possible uses, precautions, directions, reactions (including allergic), drug interactions, or withdrawal times. Always consult your local veterinarian and have your pet examined for any advice concerning the diagnosis and treatment of your pet, including which products and doses are most appropriate. Any trademarks are the property of their respective owners. VetDepot is not a pharmacy. All prescription products are dispensed by our Pharmacy Partner. Article last updated 2/2014.