How Advantage Multi Works to Protect Your Dog
Advantage Multi for Dogs is a powerful and comprehensive once-monthly topical medication that offers broad-spectrum protection against internal and external parasites. Trusted by veterinarians and pet owners alike, it contains two active ingredients — imidacloprid (10%) and moxidectin (2.5%) — that work synergistically to maintain your dog’s health and comfort. Approved for use in dogs and puppies at least 7 weeks old and weighing at least 3 pounds, Advantage Multi provides multiple parasitic protection in a single, convenient application.
Key Benefits and Uses of Advantage Multi
- Prevention of heartworm disease caused by Dirofilaria immitis
- Treatment of circulating microfilariae in heartworm-positive dogs
- Kills adult fleas and treats flea infestations
- Treatment and control of sarcoptic mange caused by Sarcoptes scabiei var. canis
- Treats and controls intestinal parasites like hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms
How to Apply Advantage Multi
Application is straightforward and should be done once a month. Follow these steps:
- Remove one dose applicator from the package and hold upright.
- Open by removing and reversing the cap to break the seal.
- With your dog standing, part the hair between the shoulder blades or along the back depending on size.
- Apply the entire content directly to the exposed skin in one area (for dogs ≤20 lbs) or in 3–4 spots along the top of the back (for dogs >20 lbs).
- Prevent pets from licking the application site for at least 30 minutes. Children should avoid contact with treated areas for 2 hours.
Dosing by Dog Weight
- 3–9 lbs: 40 mg imidacloprid, 10 mg moxidectin
- 9.1–20 lbs: 100 mg imidacloprid, 25 mg moxidectin
- 20.1–55 lbs: 250 mg imidacloprid, 62.5 mg moxidectin
- 55.1–88 lbs: 400 mg imidacloprid, 100 mg moxidectin
- 88.1–110 lbs: 500 mg imidacloprid, 125 mg moxidectin
- For dogs over 110 lbs: Use the appropriate combination of formulations
Important Safety Information
While Advantage Multi is well-tolerated, side effects can occur. The most common include:
- Itching at the application site
- Lethargy or tiredness
- Residue or dampness where applied
- A medicinal odor
Less common effects may include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and temporary hair loss at the application area. In rare cases, especially for avermectin-sensitive breeds such as Collies, accidental ingestion can cause severe neurological symptoms, coma, or death.
Precautions and Considerations
- Not for use in cats — highly toxic to felines
- Should not be used on irritated skin or near the mouth or eyes
- Store at room temperature in its original packaging
- Prescribed only by veterinarians after a current heartworm test
- Do not combine with other heartworm or flea preventatives
- Use caution with sick, debilitated, or underweight animals
Missed a Dose?
If you miss a dose, administer it as soon as possible and resume your regular monthly schedule. Avoid double dosing. If the lapse exceeds 30 days, consult your veterinarian for heartworm retesting and further guidance.
Bathing and Water Exposure
Bathing 90 minutes after treatment does not affect its efficacy for heartworm protection. Flea and parasite protection remains effective even after water immersion 4 days post-application. However, excessive bathing (e.g., more than once a week) may reduce its effectiveness.
Why Choose Advantage Multi?
Becoming your dog’s shield against multiple parasite threats, Advantage Multi offers peace of mind through a single monthly application. Its efficacy, ease of use, and broad coverage make it an excellent choice for comprehensive parasitic protection. Ensure regular veterinary checkups and adhere to monthly dosing to make the most of this trusted treatment.
