What is the most important information I should know about Interceptor: Interceptor is a prescription medication FDA approved for use in dogs and cats. Interceptor is available as artificial beef (derived from pork and soy protein) flavored chewable tablets. The usual dose of interceptor for dogs 2 to 10 pounds is 2.3mg (brown box), 11 to 25 pounds is 5.75mg (green box), 26 to 50 pounds is 11.5mg (yellow box) and 51 to 100 pounds is 23mg (white box) given once a month year round. The usual dose of Interceptor for cats 1.5 to 6 pounds is 5.75mg (green box), 6.1 to 12 pounds is 11.5mg (yellow box) and 12.1 to 25 lbs is 23mg (white box) given once a month year round.
What is Interceptor: Interceptor is given once a month for the prevention of heartworm disease in dogs and cats. Interceptor also protects against hookworm, roundworm and whipworm. It is recommended by the American Heartworm Society that heartworm prevention be used year round. Interceptor may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this guide.
What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Interceptor to my pet: Tell your veterinarian if your pet has ever had an allergic reaction to Interceptor or milbemycin.
How should this medication be given: Give Interceptor exactly as directed by the veterinarian. If you do not understand the directions ask the pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. Heartworm testing should be performed prior to the start of prevention therapy. If the animal is off Interceptor for 6 months or less, start the medication and test after 6 months since microfilaria, that take 6 months to mature, will result in a positive test result. Store Interceptor at room temperature. Do not remove the tablet from its wrapper until ready to give the medicine. Keep this medication away from children and pets.
What happens if I miss giving a dose: Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not give a double dose of the medication.
What happens if I overdose the pet: Seek emergency veterinary medical treatment. Symptoms of overdose may include depression drowsiness, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, hypersalivation, seizures and weakness.
What should I avoid while giving Interceptor to my pet: Because humans can contract hookworm and roundworm from animals, it is important to maintain good personal hygiene. It is also important to eliminate fleas on the pet and in the household and to not feed the pet rodents or uncooked meat or fish. To prevent reinfection, daily cleanup of stools is recommended.
What are the possible side effects of Interceptor: Side effects of Interceptor are rare although some animals may exhibit depression, drowsiness, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, hypersalivation, seizures and weakness. If these or other symptoms develop contact your veterinarian.
What other drugs will affect Interceptor: Do not give Interceptor to your pet if already taking an alternate heartworm medication.
Where can I get more information: Your pharmacist has additional information about Interceptor written for health professionals that you may read.
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