Interceptor ^® Flavor Tabs (Brand) by Novartis

What is Interceptor?
You can protect your pet from heartworm and intestinal worms with one medication. This monthly oral pet medication can be used in dogs, puppies, cats, and kittens to kill the immature form of the heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis). Interceptor also controls adult hookworms (Ancylostoma caninum and Ancylostoma tubaeforme), and removes and controls adult roundworms (ascarids - Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonina in dogs and Toxocara cati in cats), and whipworms (Trichuris vulpis) in dogs.

Who is it for?
For dogs and puppies over 4 weeks of age weighing more than 2 pounds, and cats and kittens over 6 weeks of age weighing more than 1.5 lbs. Safe to use in pregnant and nursing dogs.

What are the benefits?

How does Interceptor work?
Interceptor is used in the prevention, control, and treatment of various worm infections. Interceptor contains milbemycin oxime, which is thought to interfere with the parasite's nerve transmission, causing death of immature heartworms (larvae) and adult intestinal worms.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
No.

How is it given?
Interceptor must be administered monthly, preferably on the same date each month. Drs. Foster and Smith recommends (and our guarantee requires) that Interceptor be given year round, although some veterinarians may recommend giving it only during the mosquito season. If given seasonally, the first dose must be given within 30 days of the pet's first exposure to mosquitoes. The last dose must be given within 30 days after the pet's last exposure to mosquitoes.

Most dogs and cats like the taste of Interceptor and will accept the tablet as a treat. Interceptor may be crumbled and mixed with some food. Care should be taken that the dog consumes the complete dose, and treated animals should be observed for a few minutes after administration to ensure that part of the dose is not lost or rejected. If not entirely consumed, give another full recommended dose as soon as possible.

What results can I expect?
Interceptor will kill the immature heartworms the pet was exposed to in the preceding month. It will treat an intestinal infection with adult hookworms and roundworms.

What form(s) does it come in?
Tablets

Please click on "More Information" for possible drug and food interactions with this medication.

Brand Name
Interceptor Flavor Tabs

Pronunciation
IN-ter-SEP-tor

Common Drug Name
Milbemycin oxime

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Interceptor?
Talk to your veterinarian about the heartworm testing that is recommended before starting your pet on a heartworm prevention program.

Some intestinal parasites, such as hookworms and roundworms can be spread to people. Talk to your veterinarian about other measures you can take to prevent your pet from being infected with intestinal worms, and protecting yourself.

Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your pet is taking, and also if your pet has had any reactions to previous medications.

What should I do if I miss a dose?
If a dose is missed and over 30 days have gone by since the last dose, give Interceptor immediately and resume the monthly dosing schedule. Tell your veterinarian that a dose was missed.

What is the most important information I should know?
If the interval between doses is longer than one month, the efficacy of the drug is reduced.

Who should not take it?
Do not use in puppies less than 4 weeks of age or less than 2 pounds, or in kittens less than 6 weeks of age or less than 1.5 pounds.n

The safety of Interceptor in pregnant, nursing, or breeding cats has not been determined.

This medication should only be given to the pet for which it was prescribed.

What side effects may be seen when taking Interceptor?
Side effects of Interceptor are rare, but may include vomiting, depression, diarrhea, drooling, staggering, weakness, and seizures. If you observe any of these side effects, contact your veterinary immediately.

How is it stored?
Interceptor Flavor Tabs should be stored in a dry place at room temperature between 59°F-86°F. The chewable tablet is appealing to pets and children. Store in a secure area to prevent an accidental overdose. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, or if you observe vomiting, depression, diarrhea, staggering, weakness, or seizures, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What should I avoid when giving my pet Interceptor?
Although there are no known drug or food interactions with this medication, consult with your veterinarian before using Interceptor with any other medications, including vitamins and supplements, since interactions may occur.

Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the Patient Information Sheet on this medication. For technical assistance or to report suspected adverse reactions, call the manufacturer, Novartis, at 1-800-332-2761.