SELAMECTIN

Why has my veterinarian prescribed Selamectin for my dog?

Selamectin is a topical agent used to kill parasites in dogs. It is used to kill adult fleas, prevent flea eggs from hatching, prevent and control flea infestations, prevent heartworm disease and treat and control ear mite infestations in dogs. This product may also be prescribed by your veterinarian for the treatment and control of sarcoptic mange andcontrol of tick infestations in dogs.

How do I give Selamectin to my dog?

• Apply this medication to your dog as directed by your veterinarian. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
• DO NOT apply more medication than directed or more often than directed.
• Try to ensure that you have a reminder system in place to indicate when the next dose should be applied.
• Part the hair on the animals back at the base of the neck in front of the shoulder blades until the skin is visible. Place the tip of the tube on the skin and squeeze the tube to empty the entire contents directly onto the skin in one spot.
• DO NOT massage the product into the skin.
• DO NOT apply to broken skin.
• DO NOT apply to wet hair coat.
• Keep the product away from the dog’s mouth and eyes.
• Discard empty tubes in your ordinary household garbage.
• Wash hands with soap and water after handling the medication. 

What if I miss giving a dose?

Apply the dose as soon as possible. Contact your veterinarian if you have missed applying the dose by more than a few days. Do not apply two doses at once.

How do I store Selamectin?

• Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
• Store this medicine below 30oC. Store away from heat and direct sunlight.
• Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

What are the potential side effects?

• The following side effects have been observed rarely: vomiting, loose stools or diarrhea with or without blood, loss of appetite, drowsiness, salivation, rapid breathing and muscle tremors.
• If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

Are there any possible drug interactions?

• Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving to your dog.
• Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, even if a drug interaction may occur. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
• Contact your veterinarian if your dog experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.

REMEMBER!  READ THE LABEL

Based on material written by Rita Ozolins, B.Sc., Phm. and modified with permission from Lifelearn Inc.
© Copyright 2005 Lifelearn Inc.