Tri-Heart Plus vs Trifexis

Heartworms and parasites aren’t just irritating - they can also cause and transmit a number of serious problems. Pet parents may easily become overwhelmed with the many heartworm preventatives available today. Two of the top veterinarian-recommended picks are Tri-Heart Plus and Trifexis. While these medications have a lot in common, they also differ in many ways. See below for a table and more information to help with your decision!

Tri-Heart Plus for Dogs

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Save $5 off $50
with coupon code COMPARE5

What makes Tri-Heart Plus and Trifexis different from one another?

These two top-of-the-line products have many features in common. Both formulas are chewable, beef-flavored, once-monthly tablets for use in dogs. They both protect canines against heartworms, hookworms, and roundworms, and they both require a prescription.

Although there are a number of similarities between Tri-Heart Plus and Trifexis, they are also different in many ways. One key difference between these two formulas is that they contain different active ingredients. Tri-Heart Plus contains Pyrantel Pamoate and Ivermectin, while Trifexis offers Milbemycin Oxime and Spinosad. 

Tri-Heart Plus is safe for use in puppies from the age of 6 weeks, and Trifexis can be administered to puppies 8 weeks and up weighing at least 6 pounds. Tri-Heart Plus is safe for use in pregnant or breeding female dogs, but Trifexis has not been proven safe for use in lactating, breeding, or pregnant pets. Finally, Trifexis offers added protection against other potentially harmful parasites - whipworms and fleas.

Key takeaways on Tri-Heart Plus vs. Trifexis

As you can see, both of these medications are incredibly impressive and highly effective against dangerous parasites. A few factors that may help with your decision between these products are:

  • Will you be treating a pregnant, breeding, or lactating dog? If so, Tri-Heart Plus is the safest option for your pet.
  • Do you have a puppy between the ages of 6 and 8 weeks, and does your puppy weigh under 5 pounds? If you answered yes to either question, you might opt for Tri-Heart Plus to protect your pup.
  • Are you searching for a preventative that offers protection against whipworms and fleas? If so, you’ll want to take a look at Trifexis.

With this knowledge and information in mind, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with your veterinarian. Tell your vet about the medication that you’re leaning toward. He or she can give you further insight on each option, and your veterinarian can answer all of your questions. With your dog’s prescription in hand, you’ll be ready to order your pet’s prescription at the lowest price from GiantEaglePetRx! If you find yourself with any remaining concerns, reach out to the GiantEaglePetRx pharmacists for a free pet parent consultation.

Feature Tri-Heart Plus Trifexis
Kills Fleas No Yes
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 and Roundworms Roundworm, Hookworm, and Whipworm
Waterproof Yes since taken orally Yes
How Long to work N/A Kills 100% of biting fleas in 4 hours
Taste Beef Flavored Beef Flavored
Active Ingredient Ivermectin and Pyrantel Pamoate Spinosad and Milbemycin Oxime
RX Required Yes Yes
Application Type Chewable Tablet Chewable Tablet
Dosing 1 tablet per month 1 tablet per month
Age Dogs ages 6 weeks and older Puppies 8 weeks and older and weigh more than 5 lbs.
Manufacturer Merck Animal Health Elanco Animal Health
Safety Safe for pregnant or breeding females. Not yet evaluated for use of in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs.