Milbemax in dogs is a antiparasitic widely used for its broad spectrum of action and its effectiveness, as well as for its ease of use when marketed as a chicken-flavored chewable tablet, which makes it easier for the dog to ingest it voluntarily. In this article on our site we are going to talk about the action of milbemax in all types of dogs, its dosage, its possible side effects and, also, the precautions What should we consider. Of course, we should always administer it according to veterinary prescription
What is milbemax used for in dogs?
As we have said, milbemax is an antiparasitic product active against intestinal parasites such as cestodes, also known as flatworms, or nematodes or roundworms. In addition, it is effective against other non-intestinal nematodes, such as Angiostrongylus vasorum, whose adult forms are located in the pulmonary arteries and the heart, or Thelazia callipaeda, which parasitizes the eyes. It can also be used in the prevention of another nematode, the Dirofilaria immitis or heartworm.
Milbemax owes its effect to its components, milbemycin oxime and praziquantel If we read the packaging, the rest of the ingredients are excipients. Therefore, its use is as a dewormer both preventively, administered periodically, and curative in cases in which our veterinarian detects any of these parasites. It is important to establish a schedule for regular deworming as well as veterinary check-ups.
How to administer milbemax in dogs?
Regarding dosage, it is based on the following presentations in which milbemax for dogs is marketed:
- Milbemax for small dogs and puppies, weighing between 1 and 5 kg. They require a tablet of this presentation. It is important not to use this product on dogs weighing less than 1 kg.
- Milbemax for large and medium dogs, from 5 to 25 kg, which will only need one of these tablets. This presentation cannot be used in dogs weighing less than 5 kg.
For dogs over 25 kg and up to 50 we can use the second presentation mentioned but administering two tablets. In giant dogs, over 50 kg, we will give three of these pills. As we can see, it is essential to weigh the dog to adjust the dose.
Milbemax is suitable for pregnant and lactating bitches and for collies and their crosses, provided that the recommended dosage is respected. The pills can be given with food or after eating. The formulation as a chewable tablet helps many dogs eat it directly as if it were a treat.
How often is milbemax administered to dogs?
If we use milbemax as a regular or maintenance dewormer, we should give our dog the pill every 3-4 months and, of course, whenever it is affected by any of the parasites against which it is active. Remember that this antiparasitic product only protects against intestinal parasites, not external ones. For these cases, it will be necessary to use another product or opt for double monthly deworming, which consists of administering a single veterinary prescription tablet to protect the animal from internal and external parasites at the same time.
For Angiostrongylus infestations, milbemax should be administered for four weeks, with one pill every seven days. Instead, if we want to prevent this parasite, we will give the pill every four weeks. For Thelazia, two doses seven days apart are recommended.
Side effects of milbemax in dogs
Milbemax is a very safe drug, which means that it will rarely cause side effects. These would include the following symptoms:
- Lethargy.
- Tremors.
- Incoordination.
- Seizures.
- Vomiting.
- Hypersalivation.
- Anorexy.
- Diarrhea.
If we exceed the dose, the same symptoms will appear but with greater intensity.
Precautions for the use of milbemax in dogs
We have already said that the milbemax can be safely used on collies and their crosses. These dogs have a genetic mutation that hinders the metabolism of some drugs. If an adverse reaction occurs in them, we will observe symptoms such as those described for cases of overdose.
In case of heartworm disease, it is recommended to administer milbemax at preventive doses together with doxycycline, an antibiotic that eliminates Wolbachia, the symbiotic bacteria which is associated with the filariae. After the death of these, when the Wolbachia antigens are released into the blood, hypersensitivity reactions with pale mucous membranes, vomiting, tremors, respiratory problems or hypersalivation could be triggered. Therefore, to prevent it, it is recommended to use Wolbachia treatment in combination with milbemax and before starting to kill adult heartworms. Of course, the veterinarian is in charge of monitoring the dog and choosing the most appropriate pharmacological regimen.
milbemax should not be used at the same time as moxidectin and imidacloprid. Finally, the continued use of the same antiparasitic product can cause resistance, so it is recommended to introduce some variation from time to time.
