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Parasite Drug (Ivermectin) Poisoning in Dogs

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Treatment

Unfortunately, ivermectin toxicity cannot be reversed. Therefore, it is best to make your pet comfortable and treat the symptoms to the best of your ability. If exposure has occurred within the past four to six hours, induce vomiting and/or administer activated charcoal for the purposes of minimizing absorption. Be on the lookout for signs of secondary complications.

Some or all of the following measures may also be recommended by your veterinarian:

Intravenous fluid therapy
Keeping electrolytes in balance
Intravenous nutritional support
Turn the dog over frequently
Appropriate bedding
Physical therapy
Ocular lubricants
Ventilator in case of respiratory distress
Heat support if body temperature is low
Fans if body temperature is high
If your dog can not stand up, urinary catheters may be needed
Medication for seizures if appropriate

Much will depend on the severity of the dog's reaction, along with its initial overall health. It may take several weeks of dedicated care before the dog fully recovers.

Prevention

There is a test available to check sensitivity to ivermectin. If your dog is one of the breeds that is prone to ivermectin toxicity, you might consider testing for it. If you decide not to have the testing done, be cautious about using ivermectin to prevent heartworm disease or for the treatment of mites.