Understanding How Advantage Multi Works for Dogs
Advantage Multi for Dogs is a powerful and trusted monthly topical solution designed to protect canines from a broad range of internal and external parasites. As a pet owner, it’s essential to understand how this medication operates so you can safeguard your dog’s health year-round.
Main Functions of Advantage Multi
This veterinary-prescribed formula serves as a comprehensive treatment and prevention solution for:
- Heartworm Disease Prevention: Prevents infections caused by Dirofilaria immitis.
- Flea Treatment: Kills adult fleas (Ctenocephalides felis) and treats infestations.
- Sarcoptic Mange Control: Treats and controls mange caused by Sarcoptes scabiei var. canis.
- Intestinal Parasite Treatment: Targets hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms effectively.
Active Ingredients in Advantage Multi
This product combines two potent ingredients to deliver its multi-spectrum effectiveness:
- Imidacloprid (10%): An insecticide that kills adult fleas upon contact.
- Moxidectin (2.5%): An antiparasitic that prevents heartworms and treats internal parasites like hookworms and roundworms.
How to Apply Advantage Multi
Application is simple but varies depending on your dog’s weight:
- Remove one applicator tube from the package.
- Hold upright, remove the cap, and use it to pierce the seal.
- With the dog standing, part the hair at target areas to expose the skin.
- Apply entire content directly onto the skin:
- For dogs ≤20 lbs: Apply to one spot between shoulder blades.
- For dogs >20 lbs: Apply to 3–4 spots along the back between the neck and upper back.
- Prevent licking for 30 minutes; keep children away from the application site for 2 hours.
Safety and Precautions
- Do not use on cats or other species.
- Use only on dogs ≥7 weeks old and weighing ≥3 lbs.
- Consult your vet before starting if your dog has heartworm disease or is pregnant, lactating, or debilitated.
- Do not apply to damaged skin or allow ingestion—may cause serious clinical side effects.
- A current heartworm test must be on file before a vet prescribes it, with annual tests recommended.
Shampooing impact: Bathing 90 minutes after application doesn’t hinder heartworm protection. Bathing 4 days later won’t reduce its effectiveness against fleas—but frequent weekly baths might.
Side Effects
While most pets tolerate Advantage Multi well, side effects may include:
- Itching at application site
- Lethargy and vomiting
- Temporary hair loss or residue on applied areas
- In rare cases—especially in certain sensitive breeds—more serious neurologic symptoms can occur after accidental ingestion.
Storage and Dosage Information
Store at 39°F to 77°F (4°C–25°C) in its original packaging. Dosage is dependent on dog size, with specific imidacloprid and moxidectin quantities provided per weight range:
- 3–9 lbs: 40 mg / 10 mg
- 9.1–20 lbs: 100 mg / 25 mg
- 20.1–55 lbs: 250 mg / 62.5 mg
- 55.1–88 lbs: 400 mg / 100 mg
- 88.1–110 lbs: 500 mg / 125 mg
For dogs over 110 lbs, use the correct combination of tubes to match weight.
Missed Doses and Scheduling
- If a dose is skipped, give it as soon as possible and then resume your schedule.
- Never double-dose. If the gap is over 30 days, consult your vet immediately.
- Maintain monthly, year-round administration for total protection.
Important Notes
- Do not use in combination with other flea or heartworm preventatives.
- Prescription-only: Not available over the counter—requires heartworm test.
- Manufactured by: Elanco Animal Health
In summary, Advantage Multi for Dogs serves as a convenient, effective one-step treatment for many parasites threatening your dog’s health. Proper use and regular veterinary supervision will ensure your furry companion stays protected, happy, and healthy throughout the year.
