Advantage Multi for Dogs

Advantage Multi for dogs controls and eliminates parasites that prey on dogs, such as fleas, heartworms, and other internal parasitic worms. Available with a prescription from your veterinarian, Advantage Multi is the latest formulation in the Advantage family of anti-parasite medications. Its precursors are Advantage I and Advantage II, which are effective against fleas and ticks.

Cost

A typical price for Advantage Multi for dogs is $113.15 for 6 months of the topical medication. This is the only form available, although it may be dispensed in 3-month sizes as well. The cost for a 3-month package is $58.65.

Dosage

Dosage of this medication is based on the dog’s weight. Advantage Multi is administered in the following doses:

• 3–9 pounds: 0.4 milliliter
• 9.1–20 pounds: 1.0 milliliter
• 20.1–55 pounds: 2.5 milliliters
• 55.1–88 pounds: 4.0 milliliters
• 88.1–110 pounds: 5.0 milliliters
  

Dosage Instructions

• Peel the cover off the medication applicator and snap off the top. 

• Have the dog in a standing position.

• Part the hair at a spot between the shoulder blades.

• Drop the contents onto the exposed skin.

• If using Multi on a large dog, break the dose into 3 or 4 spots around the shoulders and neck or down the back where the dog can’t lick them.

• Observe the dog for 30 minutes to ensure they aren’t licking the dosage site(s).

Be sure to protect clothing from being contaminated by the medication. If this happens accidentally, remove the clothing at once and wash it. Protect hands with gloves, if available. Wash hands thoroughly after handling Multi.

Efficacy

Advantage Multi for dogs has been shown to be effective against adult fleas, and worms such as pinworms, whipworms, and roundworms. It prevents ear mites as well. It's also effective against heartworm microfilaria and adult heartworms, as demonstrated in a study published in Parasites and Vectors.

This ability to prevent and potentially cure heartworm infestations is a distinguishing feature of Advantage Multi for dogs. Its ingredients include 2.5 % moxidectin, along with 10% imidacloprid. 

Side Effects

There are many possible side effects in dogs taking Advantage Multi. Some will resolve on their own about ten days after administration. They include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Bloody stools
• Drooling
• Poor appetite
• Lethargy
• Weakness
• Restlessness and agitation
• Disorientation
• Dizziness, inability to stand
• Muscle tremors
• Seizures
• Panting
• Breathing difficulty
• Acute pulmonary edema
• Hives or a rash
• Swollen face and ears
• Itchiness
• Skin redness
• Cough
• Eye and nasal discharge
• Hyperactivity

While these side effects may go away on their own, if they don’t or if any of them alarm you, don’t hesitate to call your veterinarian. They may want to see the dog to evaluate the severity of the reaction.

Considerations

The imidacloprid in Advantage Multi does not have any drug interactions, but the moxidectin portion may  interact with some medications, including: 

• Alpha/beta blockers (carvedilol)
• Antiarrhythmic medications (amiodarone, quinidine)
• Antibiotics (clarithromycin, erythromycin)
• Antifungal medications (itraconazole, ketoconazole)
• Calcium-channel blockers (diltiazem, verapamil)
• Diuretic (spironolactone) 
• Estrogen receptor modulator (tamoxifen)
• Immunosuppressants (cyclosporine)
• Pesticide (spinosad)

Warning labels on the Advantage Multi for dogs package indicate that the medication should not be used on dogs less than 3 pounds, nor on dogs who are breeding, pregnant or lactating. It further warns against allowing the dog to lick the medication. Keep multiple treated dogs separated so they can’t lick each other. The results of licking the medication may include:

• Depression
• Incoordination
• Salivation
• Panting
• Dilated pupils
• Muscle tremors

There is also a warning that dogs who are sensitive to ivermectin should not receive this medication. These are animals with a genetic mutation, such as Collies and Collie mixes.

Advantage Multi for dogs should also not be used on sick, debilitated, or underweight dogs, or puppies less than 7 weeks old and under 3 pounds.

Advantage Multi for dogs is prescribed as an off-label drug. Some prescription medications that may not be fully vetted for use in canines may, in the veterinarian’s opinion, be effective for certain illnesses or as preventive medicine. If the vet instructs you to give the medication in a way that’s different from label directions, follow the veterinarian’s instructions.

Frequently asked questions

How do I store Advantage Multi for dogs?

This medication should be stored between the temperatures of 39 degrees Fahrenheit and 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Protect from moisture.

What monitoring is necessary with Advantage Multi for dogs?

Pet parents should monitor their dog for symptoms of ingesting the medication, along with any other allergic or adverse reactions in the list above.

When can I pet and shampoo my dog after giving Advantage Multi?

The dog should be prevented from licking the medication site for at  least 90 minutes. Also, avoid touching the application site for the same amount of time, or until the medication dries. You can bathe and shampoo your dog after 90 minutes.

How often do I have to treat my dog with Advantage Multi?

It is recommended that the medication be applied once a month year-round, even if there seem to be no signs of parasites like fleas or mosquitoes. If, for some reason, you're unable to treat the dog year-round, start giving it a month before and after mosquito season.

What do I do if I forget a dose?

Apply Advantage Multi as soon as you remember but not just before another dose is due. Do not double up doses of this medication to prevent adverse reactions.

Protecting your fur-baby from parasites is essential for their health. Most pet insurance companies offer wellness add-ons that cover the cost of preventative care, including parasite prevention. Start comparing wellness plans to find the “pawfect” option for your fur-baby.