Activates glutamate-gated chloride channels causing paralysis and death of parasites; longer half-life than ivermectin; lipophilic with sustained tissue concentrations
At a glance
Class
Macrocyclic lactone (milbemycin) antiparasitic
Storage
Store below 25°C, protect from light; do not refrigerate SR injection
Dosing
Heartworm prevention / Intestinal parasites / Demodex
Route
SC (sustained-release), Topical
Frequency
Every 6 months (SR injection) or monthly (topical)
Duration: Year-round
Generalized demodicosis
Duration: Until 2 negative skin scrapings
Heartworm prevention / Ear mites / Intestinal parasites
Duration: Year-round
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Safety
Absolute contraindications — do not use
MDR1-mutant breeds (at high oral doses)
Safe at approved topical/injectable doses
CollieShetland SheepdogAustralian Shepherd
Adverse effects
Common
Injection site reaction (SR formulation)
Lethargy
Pruritus at application site (topical)
Serious
Neurotoxicity (MDR1-mutant at high doses)
Anaphylaxis (rare, injectable)
Heartworm antigen test (annual)Skin scrapings (demodicosis)Injection site examination
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Interactions
No documented interactions.
Brands
International
Advantage Multi (with imidacloprid)
Bayer/Elanco
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Moxidectin?
Moxidectin is a macrocyclic lactone (milbemycin) antiparasitic used in pets. Activates glutamate-gated chloride channels causing paralysis and death of parasites; longer half-life than ivermectin; lipophilic with sustained tissue concentrations
›What is Moxidectin used for in pets?
Moxidectin is used in veterinary medicine for: Heartworm prevention / Intestinal parasites / Demodex; Generalized demodicosis; Heartworm prevention / Ear mites / Intestinal parasites.
›What is the Moxidectin dose for dogs?
For dogs, Moxidectin is typically dosed as follows — Heartworm prevention / Intestinal parasites / Demodex: 0.003 mg/kg SC (sustained-release)/Topical Every 6 months (SR injection) or monthly (topical); Generalized demodicosis: 0.2–0.5 mg/kg PO SID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Moxidectin dose for cats?
For cats, Moxidectin is typically dosed as follows — Heartworm prevention / Ear mites / Intestinal parasites: 1 mg/kg Topical Monthly. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Moxidectin?
Common: Injection site reaction (SR formulation), Lethargy, Pruritus at application site (topical). Serious (call your vet immediately): Neurotoxicity (MDR1-mutant at high doses), Anaphylaxis (rare, injectable).
›Does Moxidectin need a prescription?
Yes. Moxidectin is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
›When should Moxidectin not be used?
Do not use Moxidectin if: MDR1-mutant breeds (at high oral doses).
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →References
CDSCO approvals (India) — 2
Moxidectin 1% w/v injection
M/s Cyanamid India Ltd · Approved 16.01.1997
In the treatment and control of internal and external parasites in cattle.
Sarolaner/Moxidectin/Pyrant el Embonate Chewable Tablets (Simparica Trio).
M/s Zoetis India Ltd · Approved 04.08.2022
1. Ectoparasite Treatment of tick infestation. Treatments of flea infestation (ctenocephalides felis and ctenocephalides
Source: CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database