The medication that is commonly used to kill heartworms in dogs is melarsomine, which is sold under the brand name Immiticide®. Melarsomine is an injectable drug that is specifically designed to target and eliminate adult heartworms that have taken up residence in the heart and adjacent vessels.
When a dog is diagnosed with heartworm disease, the veterinarian will typically recommend a treatment protocol that includes the administration of melarsomine. The specific injection schedule will be determined by the veterinarian based on the severity of the infection and the individual dog’s condition.
Melarsomine is not a one-time injection but is given in a series of injections. The treatment is typically divided into two stages, with the dog receiving multiple injections over a period of several weeks. This allows for a gradual killing of the adult heartworms, reducing the risk of complications that could arise if all the worms were killed at once.
During the first stage of treatment, the dog usually receives two injections of melarsomine, given 24 hours apart. These injections are typically administered deep into the muscles of the dog’s back. The injections can be quite painful, and some dogs may experience discomfort or soreness at the injection site. It is important to follow the veterinarian’s instructions for post-injection care, which may include limited activity and pain management if necessary.
After the initial injections, there is a rest period of about four to six weeks to allow the dog’s body to eliminate the dead worms and recover from the treatment. During this time, it is important to closely monitor the dog’s activity level and restrict exercise to prevent complications.
Following the rest period, the second stage of treatment begins. This stage typically involves the administration of one or two additional injections of melarsomine, depending on the severity of the infection. These injections are given 24 hours apart, similar to the first stage.
It is important to note that melarsomine is a powerful medication that can have potential side effects. These can include pain at the injection site, swelling, fever, coughing, and changes in appetite or behavior. It is crucial to closely monitor the dog during and after treatment and report any concerning symptoms to the veterinarian.
In addition to melarsomine, other medications may be prescribed to manage the symptoms of heartworm disease and support the dog’s overall health during treatment. These may include medications to reduce inflammation, prevent blood clots, and control coughing.
It is important to follow the veterinarian’s instructions and complete the full course of treatment to effectively kill the adult heartworms and give the dog the best chance of recovery. Regular follow-up visits and heartworm testing are also necessary to ensure that the treatment has been successful.
Personal experiences with heartworm treatment can vary, as every dog and every case of heartworm disease is different. It is important to work closely with a trusted veterinarian to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to the individual dog’s needs and to provide the necessary support and care throughout the treatment process.