Any other problems that might cause complications should be corrected before heartworm treatment begins. Following treatment, complete rest is required to prevent lung damage from the dead and decomposing worms. Excitement and exercise should be avoided for at least a month, followed by gradual return to normal activity. After all adult heartworms are eliminated, another drug must be given to rid the bloodstream of microfilarae which are not affected by the drug to kill adult heartworms. These medications are administered 3-4 week after the adulticide treatment has ended.
Medications use to eliminate the microfilarae include the use of ivermectin and milbemycin oxime.
Careful observation is required after an initial dose in order to treat potential systemic side effects. There have been some neurological side effects in rough coated collies and some other pure breeds at high doses of ivermectin. Prevention Prevention has proven to be highly successful in controlling heartworm infection. These products come in several sizes given according to the weight of the dog. This medication eliminates either the L2 and L3 stages of the microfilarae.