Milbemycin is used to treat roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and tapeworms, and prevent heartworm in dogs and cats. Milbemycin is commonly dispensed by vets. Milbemycin can be a very valuable medication for your pet, but it can also cause undesirable side effects.
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Side Effects
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Side effects of this medicine are rare but can include depression, lethargy, vomiting, staggering, loss of appetite, itching, hives, diarrhea, seizures, weakness or excessive salivation.
Special Considerations
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If your pet already has immature heartworms in its body, ingesting this medication can kill them all at once and cause a serious reaction. Therefore, your vet should test your pet to make sure it is not infected with heartworm to prevent this severe side effect. Puppies less than four weeks old or weighing less than 2 lbs. should not be given this medication, as serious side effects may result.
Serious Side Effects
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High doses of milbemycin can get into the brains of some dogs, particularly Collies and other herding dogs. Signs of this serious side effect include stumbling, weakness and confusion. This side effect can result in a coma or death, so contact your vet right away if you notice these symptoms.
Allergic Reactions
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Side effects may be worse if your pet is allergic to milbemycin. Symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction include facial swelling, hives, itchiness, diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs or coma. If your pet experiences any of these symptoms, contact your vet immediately.
Overdose
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Severe and lengthy side effects may indicate an overdose. In event of a milbemycin overdose, take your pet to the vet immediately. Vomiting, depression, diarrhea, drooling, staggering, weakness or seizures all can indicate an overdose.
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