I’m really hoping someone can help me out with this. I’m feeling a bit frantic because I just realized that my dog’s Trifexis heartworm medication expired last month. I usually keep a close eye on Luna’s meds, but things have been hectic and I’m worried that I’ve messed up. I’ve read a bit online about meds still being effective past their expiration date, but I’m getting mixed information and honestly freaking out a little. I can’t get to the vet until later this week, and I really want to make sure Luna is protected because we’re in an area with a lot of mosquitoes. Does anyone know if it’s still safe to give her this month's dose, or should I hold off until I can get new meds? Any advice would be massively appreciated!
Hi there,
Thanks for reaching out with your question about Trifexis. First of all, I understand your concern about using expired medication for your pet. Let’s chat about this a bit.
Trifexis is a medication used to protect dogs from fleas, heartworms, and some intestinal parasites. Like most medications, it comes with an expiration date to ensure its effectiveness and safety. Using expired Trifexis could mean it may not work as intended, potentially leaving your pet unprotected against these pests.
When medications expire, their active ingredients can degrade and become less effective or sometimes completely ineffective. This means your furry friend might still be at risk of flea infestations or heartworm disease.
If you've used an expired dose recently, watch for any signs of parasite issues. Common indicators include excessive scratching, visible fleas or flea dirt, coughing, difficulty breathing, and digestive upset. If any of these signs appear, it's essential to consult a vet promptly.
For now, keep a close eye on your pet for any of these symptoms. In the future, be sure to store medication in a cool, dry place and always check the expiration date before using.
If you have more concerns or your pet shows any unusual symptoms, please consider booking a video consult with Dial A Vet. We’re here to ensure your pet stays healthy and happy!
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's
not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely.
For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our
content guidelines.