Iverhart Max vs Heartgard Plus

Pet parents are always searching for ways to protect their dogs against danger, and heartworms are among the most treacherous parasites your dog could encounter in their lives. Two of the best heartworm preventative options include Iverhart Max and Heartgard Plus. While these products share some similarities, they are also different in several ways. These differences can be helpful when you’re choosing between these incredible, top-quality formulas. To aid in your decision, we’ve assembled a table and some helpful information below.

Iverhart Max

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Heartgard Plus

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How is Iverhart Max different from Heartgard Plus?

Iverhart Max and Heartgard Plus are similar in a surprising number of ways. One key similarity is that they both contain Ivermectin and Pyrantel Pamoate as active ingredients. Because they both contain these ingredients, they both offer some of the same protections. Both products defend dogs against heartworms, roundworms, and hookworms. 

These formulas are both once-monthly, prescription-only medications. Both products are safe for use in puppies. Iverhart Max can be administered to puppies over 8 weeks old, while Heartgard Plus is safe from an age of 6 weeks. Both formulas are administered orally, but they come in different forms. Iverhart Max is a pork and beef-flavored chewable tablet, and Heartgard Plus is a beef-flavored soft chew.

Because Heartgard Plus only contains the aforementioned two active ingredients, it is proven safe for use in breeding or pregnant dogs. Iverhart Max differs from Heartgard Plus because it contains a third active ingredient called Praziquantel. This ingredient defends dogs against tapeworm infections, and it also works to kill ticks, fleas, flea eggs, and flea larvae. Heartgard Plus is not proven safe for use in pregnant, breeding, or lactating dogs.

Neither Heartgard Plus nor Iverhart Max are formulated for use in cats. However, if you’re searching for an effective heartworm preventative for your feline friend, be sure to take a look at Heartgard for Cats!

Closing thoughts on Iverhart Max vs. Heartgard Plus

When choosing between these two products, you’ll want to consider a few different factors. First, do you have a puppy between the age of 6 and 8 weeks, or do you have a pregnant or lactating dog? If so, Heartgard Plus is the safest option of the two. 

Secondly, is your dog already taking a flea and tick preventative? Flea and tick protection is important for every dog. If your answer is no, Iverhart Max might be the best choice for your dog. If your dog is already taking such a medication, speak to your vet to determine whether or not Heartgard Plus is safe for concurrent use with your pet’s other medication(s).

Be sure to make an appointment with your veterinarian to discuss your options further. You and your vet know your dog best, so you are the ideal team when it comes to selecting the best medication for your individual pup. If you find yourself with any questions or concerns after you leave your vet’s office, reach out to the GiantEaglePetRx pharmacists for a convenient and free pet parent consultation!

Feature Iverhart Max Heartgard Plus
Kills Fleas No No
Repels Fleas No No
Kills Flea Eggs and Larvae No No
Kills Ticks No No
Repels Ticks No No
Repels Mosquitoes No No
Prevents Heartworm Yes Yes
Other Parasites Hookworms, Tapeworms and roundworms Hookworms and Roundworms
Waterproof Yes Yes
How Long to work N/A N/A
Taste Pork and Beef Flavor Beef Flavored
Active Ingredient Ivermectin, Pyrantel Pamoate and Praziquantel Ivermectin and Pyrantel Pamoate
RX Required Yes Yes
Application Type Chewable Tablet Soft Chew
Dosing 1 tablet per month 1 soft chew per month
Age Dogs ages 8 weeks and weigh at least 6lbs Dogs 6 weeks and older
Manufacturer Virbac Boehringer Ingelheim
Safety The safe use of this drug has not been evaluated in pregnant or lactating dogs. Safe for pregnant or breeding females.

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