Interceptor Plus Main Uses
Heartworm Prevention: Prevents heartworm disease caused by Dirofilaria immitis by eliminating the tissue stage of heartworm larvae.
Intestinal Worm Control: Treats and controls adult stages of hookworms (Ancylostoma caninum), roundworms (Toxocara canis, Toxascaris leonina), and whipworms (Trichuris vulpis).
Tapeworm Treatment: Specifically indicated for the treatment and control of adult tapeworms (Taenia pisiformis, Echinococcus multilocularis, Echinococcus granulosus, and Dipylidium caninum).
 
Interceptor Plus Active Ingredients
Milbemycin Oxime: A macrocyclic lactone that increases the permeability of nerve and muscle membranes in nematodes (roundworms, hookworms, etc.) to chloride ions. This leads to hyperpolarization, paralysis, and death of the parasite.
Praziquantel: An isoquinoline anthelmintic that causes severe spasms and paralysis of tapeworm muscles. It damages the parasite's integument (outer covering), causing them to be digested or passed by the pet.
Mechanism of Action: Both ingredients are absorbed systemically into the bloodstream after ingestion, providing internal protection against various life stages of parasites as they circulate through the body or inhabit the GI tract.
 
Interceptor Plus Dosage & Administration
Recommended Dosage: Administered orally once every month at a minimum dose of 0.5 mg/kg milbemycin oxime and 5 mg/kg praziquantel.
Weight Categories (Canada):
Interceptor Plus Orange (0.9–3.6 kg): 2.3 mg / 22.8 mg tablet.
Interceptor Plus Green (3.7–11.3 kg): 5.75 mg / 57 mg tablet.
Interceptor Plus Yellow (11.4–22.7 kg): 11.5 mg / 114 mg tablet.
Interceptor Plus Blue (22.8–45.4 kg): 23 mg / 228 mg tablet.
Administration Timing: Should be administered after the dog has eaten. Food helps ensure proper absorption. The tablets are chicken-flavored chews and should be chewed rather than swallowed whole. Chewables may be broken into pieces and fed to dogs that normally swallow treats whole.
Missed Doses: If a dose is missed, administer as soon as possible and resume the regular monthly dosing schedule.
 
Interceptor Plus Side Effects & Safety
Common Side Effects: Generally well-tolerated; however, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite may occur in some dogs.
Rare/Neurological Signs: Incoordination (ataxia), tremors, or salivation have been reported, particularly in young puppies or at high doses.
Safety Warnings:
Heartworm Testing: Dogs greater than 6 months of age should be tested for existing heartworm infections. Annual testing of all dogs for heartworm should be done.
Microfilariae Reaction: Dogs with high numbers of circulating heartworm larvae (microfilariae) may experience a mild shock-like hypersensitivity reaction due to the rapid die-off of the parasites.
Age/Weight: Do not use in puppies less than 6 weeks of age or dogs weighing less than 0.9 kg (2 lbs).
MDR1 Sensitivity: Breeds such as Collies may be more sensitive to macrocyclic lactones; follow veterinary dosing strictly.
 
Interceptor Plus Manufacturer Information
Manufacturer: Elanco Canada Limited.
Official Website: https://www.elanco.ca
Brand Introduction: Elanco is a global leader in animal health based in Mississauga, Ontario for its Canadian operations. Interceptor Plus is a premium prescription-only heartworm preventative that differentiates itself by offering "5-worm protection," including the addition of praziquantel for tapeworms which is not found in the original Interceptor Flavor Tabs.