Interceptor Spectrum Ingredients

Interceptor Spectrum is a broad spectrum product that aims to protect dogs against heartworms and the most common types of intestinal worms, including roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and tapeworms. It can also help owners lower their risk of becoming infected as well. The product is produced by Novartis and comes in the form of chews to be given once a month.

  1. Milbemycin Oxime

    • Milbemycin oxime is a parasite control drug used to prevent heartworms and control infestations by roundworms, hookworms and certain whipworms in dogs. This active ingredient works by disrupting the parasite's nerve transmission, leading to death of the parasite. Milbemycine is a prescription drug, and dogs should be tested for heartworm infection before having it administered, explains veterinarian Dawn Ruben in an article for Petplace.com.

    Praziquantel

    • Praziquantel is a drug primarily used to control and eliminate tapeworms in cats and dogs. The drug works by dislodging the parasite's attachment to the intestinal tract, allowing it to be digested and eliminated within the dog's stool. Praziquantel is a prescription drug registered for use in humans and animals. It can be used in conjunction with other drugs used to treat different types of parasites, as with milbemycin in Interceptor Spectrum.

    Flavorings

    • Most dogs find Interceptor Spectrum tablets very palatable.

      Beef flavorings are added to Interceptor Spectrum chews in order to make them palatable to dogs. A palatability/acceptability trial was conducted on dogs, and 94 percent of all dogs liked the flavor so much, they ate the chew straight from the hand.