Heartgard

Heartgard is a veterinary medication obtainable for the prevention of heartworm infections in dogs and cats. It is manufactured by the animal, pet health company Merial. Heartgard is one of the most commonly prescribed oral heartworm preventatives for pets today.  

The animal medication Heartgard contains ivermectin as the active main ingredient. The medication works by preventing the existence of heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis) in the host animal, and by eliminating the tissue phase of the heartworm and blocking progress to the more harmful stages.

Heartgard Plus is also offered, which, in addition to ivermectin, contains the medication pyrantel pamoate, an anthelmintic which controls roundworms and hookworms.