# Milbemycin oxime for Animals: Mechanism, Doses by Species & Brands

> Milbemycin oxime is a milbemycin, part of the macrocyclic lactone group. With praziquantel (as Milpro) it is given to dogs once by mouth at a minimum of 0.5 mg/kg.

- Source page: https://wevet.in/active-ingredients/milbemycin-oxime/
- Type: Active ingredient
- Publisher: WeVet
- Updated: 2026-11-02
- Medically reviewed by: Dr. Ravi Baraiya, B.V.Sc. (2026-11-02)
- Audience: veterinarians and veterinary students

Milbemycin oxime is a milbemycin, part of the macrocyclic lactone group [2]. With praziquantel (as Milpro) it is given to dogs once by mouth at a minimum of 0.5 mg/kg [1].

- Class: Milbemycin (macrocyclic lactone) antiparasitic
- Brands: Milpro

## Dose by species

| Species | Use | Dose | Route | How often | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dogs | Intestinal worms (with praziquantel, as Milpro) (Minimum dose in the UK Milpro SPC.) | 0.5 mg/kg [1] | PO | Single dose | Label |

## Uses

- Dogs: roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and (with praziquantel) tapeworms, as a single oral dose (Milpro UK SPC) [1].

## Mechanism of action

Milbemycin oxime increases nematode and insect membrane permeability to chloride ions via glutamate-gated chloride ion channels, which leads to paralysis and death of the parasite [1]. Macrocyclic lactones act by binding to glutamate-gated chloride channel receptors in nematode and arthropod nerve cells [2].

## Safety

- The margin of safety in certain dogs of Collie or related breeds is less than in other breeds — the recommended dose should be strictly observed [1].
- Treating dogs with a high number of circulating microfilariae can cause hypersensitivity reactions [1].
- Do not use in puppies of less than 2 weeks of age and/or weighing less than 0.5 kg (Milpro UK SPC) [1].


## Frequently asked questions

### What is the milbemycin oxime dose for dogs?

The UK Milpro SPC gives a minimum of 0.5 mg/kg milbemycin oxime (with 5 mg/kg praziquantel) once by mouth [1].

### Is milbemycin oxime safe in Collies?

The margin of safety in certain dogs of Collie or related breeds is less than in other breeds, so the recommended dose should be strictly observed [1].

## References

[1] Milpro 2.5 mg/25 mg Film-coated Tablets for Small Dogs and Puppies — Summary of Product Characteristics — Veterinary Medicines Directorate (UK) — Virbac (2025). https://www.vmd.defra.gov.uk/ProductInformationdatabase/files/SPC_Documents/SPC_2928669.PDF
[2] Pharmacodynamics: Mechanisms of Anthelmintic Action in Animals — Merck Veterinary Manual (2025). https://www.merckvetmanual.com/pharmacology/anthelmintics/pharmacodynamics-mechanisms-of-anthelmintic-action-in-animals

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Numbers in [brackets] cite the references above. For veterinary professionals. Information supports — never replaces — clinical judgement; always check the current product label and local regulations.
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