Overview of Moxidectin for Dogs and Cats

Please note: The injectable form of Moxidectin was taken off the market due to potential side effects in dogs however is back on the market after passing extensive FDA safety testing. If you have any questions, please contact your veterinarian.

Moxidectin, also known as ProHeart®,  is used primarily to prevent heartworm infection for dogs.  It also treats hookworm infections. Moxidectin is commonly combined with other drugs such as Imidacloprid to create Advantage Multi for dogs and cats to prevent heartworms, fleas and to treat hookworms and roundworms.  

Parasitic infections are common and include external parasites (fleas, ticks, mites) and internal parasites (intestinal worms, lungworms, heartworms).

Moxidectin is a parasite control drug. It affects the nervous system of parasites, leading to their death, but is considered non-toxic to mammals. It is primarily used to prevent heartworm infection.

Moxidectin has been shown to be safe in collie breeds and collie mixed breeds.

Moxidectin is a prescription drug and can only be obtained from a veterinarian or by prescription from a veterinarian.

Brand Names and Other Names of Moxidectin

This drug is registered for use in animals only.

Human formulations: None

Veterinary formulations: Pro Heart® (Fort Dodge) and Pro Heart® 6 (Fort Dodge)

Uses of Moxidectin for Dogs and Cats

In dogs, moxidectin is used primarily to prevent heartworm infection. It can also be used to treat and prevent hookworm infestations.

In cats, can also be used to treat feline scabies (notoedric mange). May also be effective for demodicosis (mange) in dogs. 

Precautions and Side Effects

While generally safe and effective when prescribed by a veterinarian, moxidectin can cause side effects in some animals. The injectable form of this drug was recently taken off the market due to potential side effects. If your pet has been receiving this drug and you have any questions, please contact your veterinarian.

Moxidectin should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug.

Moxidectin should only be used in dogs after a negative heartworm test. Administration to heartworm positive dogs can lead to a potentially severe shock-like reaction.

Moxidectin should not be used in cats.

Moxidectin may interact with other medications. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if other drugs your pet is receiving could interact with moxidectin.

Adverse effects are uncommon and include lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and stumbling.

How Moxidectin Is Supplied

Moxidectin is available in 30 mcg, 68 mcg and 136 mcg tablets.

It has recently been made available as a 10 percent moxidectin injection in 20 ml vials.

Moxidectin is also available in combination products as with Advantage Multi. This is a topical solution product to be applied on the skin every month. 

Dosing Information of Moxidectin for Dogs and Cats

Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian.

In dogs, oral moxidectin is dosed at 1.5 mcg per pound (3 mcg/kg) once monthly in dogs.

In dogs, injectable moxidectin is dosed at 0.023 mg per pound (0.05 mg/kg) intramuscularly every 6 months.

In cats, moxidectin is dosed at 10 mg/kg imidacloprid with 1 mg/kg moxidectin (Advantage® Multi) applied topically every 30 days.  Approved for use in cats over 9 weeks of age.  For more information, go to Advantage Multi for dogs and cats. 

The duration of administration depends on the condition being treated, response to the medication and the development of any adverse effects. Be certain to complete the prescription unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. Even if your pet feels better, the entire treatment plan should be completed to prevent relapse or prevent the development of resistance.