Interceptor Plus vs Sentinel Spectrum

Choosing the best parasite and heartworm prevention for your dog can be a difficult chore. The abundance of options available can make your decision even more complicated. Two of the best-loved treatment options are Interceptor Plus and Sentinel Spectrum. While these products might appear similar at a glance, they are actually quite different from one another. Take a look at the table and information below, and your decision might become a little more clear!

Interceptor Plus for Dogs

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Sentinel Spectrum

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What makes Interceptor Plus different from Sentinel Spectrum?

Because these two top-of-the-line treatment options contain two of the same active ingredients, they share many similar benefits. Both products contain Milbemycin Oxime and Praziquantel. They both protect against heartworms, hookworms, roundworms, whipworms, and tapeworms. Both products come in a chewable, once-monthly tablet. Interceptor Plus features a chicken flavor, while Sentinel Spectrum offers a beef flavor.

Both products are available only with a prescription. They are both safe for use in pregnant, lactating, or breeding dogs. Finally, they are also both safe for use in puppies weighing at least 2 pounds with a minimum age of 6 weeks.

The distinguishing factor of Sentinel Spectrum is that it contains a third active ingredient - Lufenuron. This ingredient works to stop flea egg and larval development.

Closing thoughts on Interceptor Plus vs. Sentinel Spectrum

By now, you might have a better idea of which medication is right for your dog. After all, both products are incredibly effective. However, there are a few considerations that might help you make a clear decision that you can discuss with your veterinarian. 

While neither treatment is formulated for use in cats, Interceptor does offer a separate product (Interceptor for Dogs and Cats) that is cat-safe. If your dog isn’t already taking a flea treatment, you may want to consider Sentinel Spectrum to protect your pet against these dangerous parasites.

With this wealth of information in hand, it’s time to make a trip to the veterinarian’s office. Be sure to discuss your options and tell your vet why you think the medication you’ve chosen is right for your dog. Bring your prescription to Allivet for the lowest prices and best customer service, and don’t hesitate to reach out to our pharmacists for a pet parent consultation if you have any further questions or concerns about your pet’s medications!

Feature Interceptor Plus Sentinel Spectrum
Kills Fleas No No
Repels Fleas No No
Kills Flea Eggs and Larvae No Stops Development
Kills Ticks No No
Repels Ticks No No
Repels Mosquitoes No No
Prevents Heartworm Yes Yes
Other Parasites Hookworms, Roundworms, Tapeworms and Whipworms Hookworms, Roundworms, Tapeworms and Whipworms
Waterproof Yes since taken orally Yes
How Long to work N/A N/A
Taste Chicken flavor Beef flavored
Active Ingredient Milbemycin Oxime and Praziquantel Milbemycin Oxime, Lufenuron, and Praziquantel
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 2lbs or more Dogs aged 6 weeks and weight 2lbs or more
Manufacturer Elanco Merck Animal Health
Safety Breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs may use. Breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs may use.

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