Iverhart Max and Iverhart Plus are two prescription drugs used in the treatment of parasitic infections in dogs. Both are based on Ivermectin, but the rest of the ingredients are different. Iverhart Max is an improved version of the latter and as a result, it has an improved effectiveness.
Differences between Iverhart Plus and Iverhart Max
As mentioned before, the two drugs differ through the ingredients they contain. Iverhart Plus includes Ivermectin and Pyrantel, while Iverhart Max contains the following ingredients:
- Ivermectin
- Praziquantel
- Pyrantel pamoate
Ivermectin affects the nerve transmission of heartworm larvae, and leads to the paralysis and death of the immature parasite. Pyrantel pamoate has the same effect, but it is effective for roundworms and hookworms. Praziquantel destroys the skin of tapeworms, fact that is fatal for the parasite. This combination leads to an improved efficiency than in the case of Iverhart Plus. The parasitic infections against which both are effective include:
- Heartworm
- Hookworm
- Roundworm
In addition to these, Iverhart Max is also able to fight infections with 2 species of tapeworm, namely Dipylidium caninum and Taenia pisiformis. Both these drugs are effective against numerous species of the aforementioned parasites. More than that, Iverhart Max and Iverhart Plus can be used both in the treatment and in the prevention of such infections.
Availability and Administration of Iverhart Plus and Max
Both Iverhart Plus and Iverhart Max are available as chewable tablets in packs of 6 or 12 doses. A single dose per month is sufficient for treating the infection. The American Heartworm Society recommends administering all the 12 chewable tablets, in order to make sure that the infection does not relapse. The doses are different for the following types of dogs:
- 34mcg/28mg for toy dogs weighing between 6 and 12 pounds
- 68mcg/57mg for small dogs with a weight of 12.1 to 25 pounds
- 136mcg/114mg for medium-weight dogs that weigh from 25.1 to 50 pounds
- 272mcg/227mg for large dogs with a weight of 50.1 to 100 pounds
If your dog has a body weight of more than 100 pounds, you will have to ask the veterinarian about the recommended dosage. Since Iverhart Plus chewable tablets come with pork liver flavor, you will not face any problems when administering the drug. Missed doses should be administered as soon as you remember. Do not give your dog two doses at once, as the overdose may cause side effects.
Adverse Reactions to Iverhart Max and Iverhart Plus
Side effects are not frequent when using these two anthelmintic medicines. However, they may occur in some cases, particularly if the dog is hypersensitive or allergic to any of the ingredients found in these drugs. Side effects may also appear if the dosage is not respected with strictness. The possible adverse reactions include:
- Belching
- Diarrhea
- Excessive salivation
- Lack of appetite
- Lethargy
- Licking lips
- Limpness
- Shaking
Even though these side effects are not life threatening, it is still highly recommended to consult a veterinarian as soon as they are noticed.
Interactions between Iverhart and Other Drugs
It is particularly important not to administer Iverhart concomitantly with other drugs that fight the heartworm infection. In addition, there may be other interactions between various medications and Iverhart. For an extensive list of drugs that are able to alter the effectiveness of Iverheart, please consult a veterinarian.