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
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
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).
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
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
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.
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