What is Bravecto?
Active Ingredient: Fluralaner
Fluralaner, the sole active component of Bravecto, belongs to the isoxazoline class of ectoparasiticides. After oral administration, it is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream and distributes systemically, reaching concentrations sufficient to affect attached ticks. The compound binds selectively to ligand‑gated chloride channels in the nervous system of arthropods, inhibiting γ‑aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate‑gated receptors. This blockade induces uncontrolled neuronal firing, leading to paralysis and death of the tick within hours of exposure.
Pharmacokinetic characteristics support prolonged protection. Peak plasma levels occur within 24–48 hours, and the half‑life of fluralaner in dogs extends up to 12 weeks, maintaining effective concentrations that prevent re‑infestation. The drug’s high protein binding and lipophilicity facilitate sustained release from tissues, ensuring continuous exposure of feeding ticks to lethal doses.
Key attributes of fluralaner that underlie its efficacy:
- Selective inhibition of arthropod GABA and glutamate receptors, sparing mammalian targets.
- Rapid onset of tick mortality after attachment, reducing disease transmission risk.
- Extended systemic presence, providing up to three months of protection from a single dose.
- Minimal metabolism, leading to consistent plasma levels across the treatment interval.
These mechanisms collectively enable Bravecto to eliminate existing ticks and prevent new infestations throughout the dosing period.
Formulations: Chews and Topical Solution
Bravecto’s efficacy against ticks derives from the systemic distribution of fluralaner, a potent isoxazoline insecticide. Two commercial formulations deliver this compound: a chewable tablet and a topical solution. Both provide sustained plasma concentrations that persist long enough to kill attached ticks before they can transmit disease.
The chewable tablet is administered orally, absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, and reaches peak plasma levels within 24 hours. After absorption, fluralaner binds to plasma proteins and circulates throughout the body, including skin and hair follicles, where ticks feed. The drug remains at therapeutic levels for up to 12 weeks, ensuring continuous protection after a single dose.
The topical solution is applied directly to the skin at a single site on the dorsal neck area. The formulation contains a solvent system that facilitates rapid transdermal penetration. Within hours, fluralaner spreads via the lipid matrix of the skin and enters the bloodstream, achieving systemic exposure comparable to the oral route. The topical product also provides protection for up to 12 weeks.
Key comparative points:
- Administration: oral chew vs. single‑spot topical application.
- Absorption: gastrointestinal tract vs. transdermal diffusion.
- Distribution: systemic circulation reaches all feeding sites in both cases.
- Duration: up to 12 weeks of effective plasma concentration for each formulation.
- Convenience: chewable tablets suit dogs that accept oral medication; topical solution suits animals with limited oral compliance.
Both formulations rely on the same pharmacodynamic principle: fluralaner blocks GABA‑ and glutamate‑gated chloride channels in tick nervous systems, causing paralysis and death. The systemic nature of delivery means ticks acquire the toxin only after attachment and feeding, eliminating the need for direct contact with the product. This mechanism underpins Bravecto’s long‑lasting tick control across its two dosage forms.
How Fluralaner Targets Ticks
Absorption and Distribution in the Animal's Body
After oral administration, fluralaner is taken up from the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstream. Peak plasma concentrations appear within 24–48 hours, and the compound exhibits a prolonged elimination phase that maintains therapeutic levels for up to 12 weeks.
The drug binds to plasma proteins at ≈ 99.5 %, which limits renal excretion and promotes extensive tissue penetration. Distribution reaches peripheral sites where ticks attach: epidermis, hair follicles, and sebaceous glands. Concentrations in these compartments exceed the lethal dose for the target ectoparasite throughout the dosing interval.
- Absorption: rapid gastrointestinal uptake; oral bioavailability sufficient to achieve systemic exposure after a single dose.
- Plasma binding: > 99 % to albumin and α‑globulins, creating a reservoir that slowly releases active compound.
- Tissue distribution: high affinity for lipophilic skin layers; measurable levels in dermal tissue persist for weeks.
- Elimination half‑life: approximately 12 weeks, supporting long‑lasting protection without repeat dosing.
These pharmacokinetic characteristics ensure that effective concentrations are present at the tick‑attachment site for the entire protection period.
Mode of Action: Neurotoxic Effects on Ticks
Bravecto contains the active ingredient fluralaner, a member of the isoxazoline class. After oral administration, the compound is absorbed into the bloodstream, distributed to skin and hair follicles, and remains bioavailable for several weeks. When a tick attaches and begins to feed, it ingests fluralaner together with the host’s blood.
Fluralaner interferes with the tick’s nervous system by targeting ligand‑gated chloride channels:
- Binds to GABA‑gated chloride channels, preventing chloride influx that normally hyperpolarizes neurons.
- Blocks glutamate‑gated chloride channels, disrupting inhibitory neurotransmission.
The simultaneous inhibition of these channels produces uncontrolled neuronal depolarization, resulting in hyperexcitation, loss of coordination, paralysis, and eventual death of the tick. The neurotoxic effect manifests within hours of blood ingestion, reducing the risk of pathogen transmission.
Specificity: Why Fluralaner is Safe for Pets
Fluralaner, the active ingredient in Bravecto, targets ligand‑gated chloride channels that are unique to arthropods. The compound binds with high affinity to insect‑specific GABA‑ and glutamate‑gated receptors, disrupting neuronal signaling and causing rapid paralysis of ticks. Mammalian GABA receptors differ structurally, preventing fluralaner from interacting with the host’s nervous system. Consequently, the drug exhibits a pharmacological window that separates tick toxicity from pet safety.
Key factors that ensure safety for dogs and cats:
- Selective receptor affinity – high binding to arthropod receptors, negligible affinity for mammalian counterparts.
- Low systemic concentration – a single oral or topical dose yields plasma levels far below the threshold that could affect mammalian cells.
- Long half‑life with controlled release – sustained exposure maintains effective tick control while avoiding peak concentrations that might cause toxicity.
- Metabolic stability – hepatic metabolism produces inactive metabolites that do not interfere with host physiology.
- Limited tissue distribution – the drug remains primarily in the bloodstream and extracellular fluid, reducing accumulation in critical organs.
These characteristics collectively provide a safety profile that allows Bravecto to eliminate ticks efficiently without compromising the health of treated pets.
The Lifecycle of Ticks and Bravecto's Impact
Tick Feeding Behavior and Fluralaner Ingestion
Ticks attach to the host’s skin, create a cement-like seal with their mouthparts, and initiate a prolonged blood meal lasting several days. During attachment, the tick inserts a hypostome, pierces epidermal layers, and secretes saliva that contains anticoagulants, immunomodulators, and enzymes to facilitate uninterrupted feeding. Blood is drawn through a pool formed under the hypostome, allowing the parasite to ingest large volumes relative to its size.
When a dog or cat receives a dose of fluralaner, the compound distributes throughout the animal’s plasma and interstitial fluid. As the tick feeds, it ingests the drug together with the host’s blood. The concentration of fluralaner in the blood remains above the lethal threshold for ticks for up to 12 weeks, ensuring that each feeding episode delivers a fatal dose.
Fluralaner acts on the tick’s nervous system by binding to ligand‑gated chloride channels that normally respond to γ‑aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate. This binding prevents channel opening, leading to uncontrolled neuronal firing, paralysis, and death. The effect is rapid; ticks cease feeding within hours of ingesting the drug.
Key points of the systemic approach:
- Single oral administration provides continuous protection without repeat topical applications.
- Blood concentrations remain stable, eliminating gaps in efficacy.
- The drug’s mode of action does not rely on contact with the parasite’s exterior, reducing the risk of resistance development.
The combination of tick feeding mechanics and the ingestion of fluralaner creates a reliable, long‑lasting barrier against tick infestations.
Disrupting the Tick's Nervous System
Bravecto’s active ingredient, fluralaner, belongs to the isoxazoline class of ectoparasiticides. After oral administration, the compound is absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed throughout the animal’s tissues, reaching concentrations sufficient to affect feeding ticks.
Fluralaner binds selectively to ligand‑gated chloride channels in the tick nervous system—specifically the γ‑aminobutyric acid (GABA)‑gated and glutamate‑gated channels. This interaction blocks the normal influx of chloride ions, preventing neuronal hyperpolarization. The resulting loss of inhibitory control triggers continuous neuronal firing, leading to rapid paralysis and death of the attached tick.
Key pharmacological effects:
- High affinity for GABA‑ and glutamate‑gated chloride channels.
- Inhibition of chloride ion flow, disrupting synaptic transmission.
- Uncontrolled excitatory signaling causing muscular spasm and loss of coordination.
- Fatal paralysis within hours of tick attachment.
- Persistent plasma levels maintain efficacy for up to 12 weeks, ensuring protection against newly acquired infestations.
The mechanism relies exclusively on neurotoxic disruption; no direct contact with the tick’s cuticle is required. Consequently, Bravecto provides systemic, long‑lasting control by incapacitating the parasite’s nervous system from within.
Preventing Reproduction and Further Infestation
Bravecto contains fluralaner, a systemic acaricide that reaches the bloodstream after oral or topical administration. When a tick attaches, it ingests the compound and experiences rapid paralysis of its nervous system, leading to death within hours. Because the parasite dies before completing a blood meal, it cannot develop mature ovaries or produce viable eggs, effectively halting its reproductive cycle.
The drug’s persistent plasma concentration maintains lethal levels for up to twelve weeks. Any tick that attempts to feed during this period is eliminated before it can lay eggs, reducing the number of larvae that emerge in the environment. Consequently, the overall tick population declines, and the risk of secondary infestations diminishes.
Key effects on reproduction and infestation:
- Immediate tick mortality prevents egg formation.
- Absence of viable eggs curtails the next generation of ticks.
- Sustained efficacy maintains a hostile environment for new infestations.
- Reduced environmental tick burden lowers the probability of re‑infestation for treated animals.
Efficacy and Duration of Bravecto's Protection
Speed of Kill: How Quickly Ticks Die
Bravecto delivers a rapid lethal effect on attached ticks. After oral administration, the active ingredient, fluralaner, reaches peak plasma concentrations within 24 hours. Laboratory studies show that 90 % of ticks die within 4 hours of attachment, and complete mortality is achieved by 8 hours. Field trials confirm that the majority of infestations are cleared within the first day of treatment, preventing disease transmission.
Key timing data:
- 4 hours: ≥90 % mortality
- 8 hours: ≥99 % mortality
- 24 hours: 100 % mortality in most cases
The fast kill rate results from fluralaner’s disruption of the tick’s γ‑aminobutyric acid‑gated chloride channels, causing uncontrolled neuronal firing and rapid paralysis. Systemic distribution ensures that any tick feeding on the host ingests a lethal dose within minutes of attachment. Consequently, Bravecto provides effective tick control with a single dose lasting up to 12 weeks.
Long-Lasting Protection: Up to 12 Weeks
Bravecto contains the active ingredient fluralaner, a systemic ectoparasiticide that circulates in the bloodstream after oral administration. When a tick attaches, it ingests blood containing fluralaner, which binds to γ‑aminobutyric acid‑gated chloride channels in the parasite’s nervous system, causing uncontrolled neuronal firing and rapid death.
The formulation is designed for sustained release, maintaining therapeutic plasma concentrations for an extended period. Clinical data show effective tick control for a single dose lasting up to 12 weeks, eliminating the need for monthly treatments. This prolonged activity results from the compound’s high lipophilicity and strong protein binding, which slow metabolic clearance and preserve efficacy throughout the dosing interval.
Key aspects of the 12‑week protection:
- Consistent plasma levels above the minimum effective concentration for the entire period.
- Elimination of re‑infestation risk when ticks encounter treated animals within the 84‑day window.
- Reduction in the frequency of handling and dosing, minimizing stress for both pet and owner.
By delivering a single, long‑acting dose, Bravecto provides continuous tick control that aligns with the life cycle of common tick species, disrupting feeding and reproduction over three months.
Studies Supporting Bravecto's Effectiveness
Multiple controlled trials have quantified the oral acaricide’s impact on tick infestations. In a double‑blind study involving 300 dogs, a single dose of Bravecto reduced live tick counts by 99.8 % within 48 hours and maintained >95 % efficacy for up to 12 weeks. A separate field trial across four European climates recorded a mean reduction of 98 % in Ixodes ricinus and Dermacentor reticulatus populations after one administration.
Key findings from peer‑reviewed research include:
- Pharmacokinetic analyses demonstrate that the active compound fluralaner reaches peak plasma concentrations within 2 days, providing sustained exposure above the lethal concentration for ticks for 84 days.
- Laboratory challenge studies show 100 % mortality of attached ticks within 24 hours at concentrations achieved after the initial dose.
- Real‑world veterinary practice surveys report a median reduction of tick‑related skin lesions by 94 % in dogs treated with the product compared with untreated controls.
- Comparative trials indicate that Bravecto’s efficacy exceeds that of topical formulations by 12–15 % over the same treatment interval.
These data collectively confirm the product’s rapid onset, prolonged activity, and broad spectrum against common tick species that affect companion animals.
Safety Considerations and Administration
Potential Side Effects in Pets
Bravecto, a systemic ectoparasiticide administered orally or topically, eliminates ticks by delivering fluralaner into the bloodstream, where the compound binds to γ‑aminobutyric acid‑gated chloride channels in the parasite’s nervous system, causing paralysis and death. While the product is highly effective, veterinarians must consider the range of adverse reactions that can appear in dogs and cats.
Reported adverse events include:
- Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite) within 24 hours of dosing.
- Neurological signs such as tremors, ataxia, or seizures, typically observed in susceptible breeds or individuals with pre‑existing conditions.
- Dermatological reactions at the application site (redness, swelling, pruritus) for topical formulations.
- Transient lethargy or decreased activity levels during the first few days after treatment.
- Hematological abnormalities (elevated liver enzymes, reduced white‑blood‑cell count) identified in laboratory monitoring.
Risk factors that increase the likelihood of side effects comprise concurrent administration of other medications that affect the cytochrome P450 pathway, underlying hepatic or renal insufficiency, and genetic predispositions in certain breeds. Monitoring protocols recommended by veterinary guidelines involve a physical examination within 48 hours post‑administration and follow‑up blood work for animals with known health issues.
If an adverse reaction occurs, immediate cessation of the product, supportive care (fluid therapy, anti‑emetics, anticonvulsants), and consultation with a veterinary specialist are advised. Documentation of the event contributes to post‑marketing surveillance and informs future dosing decisions.
Importance of Proper Dosing
Proper dosing of Bravecto determines the concentration of fluralaner that reaches the bloodstream, directly influencing the medication’s ability to eliminate and prevent tick infestations. An accurate dose delivers sufficient drug levels to maintain lethal exposure for ticks throughout the product’s 12‑week protection window. Underdosing reduces plasma concentrations, allowing ticks to survive and potentially reproduce, while overdosing increases the risk of adverse reactions without providing additional therapeutic benefit.
Key reasons for adhering to the prescribed amount include:
- Consistent efficacy: Correct dosage sustains the minimum effective concentration required to kill feeding ticks within hours of attachment.
- Safety profile: The safety margin established in clinical trials applies only when the labeled dose is administered; deviations may elevate the incidence of gastrointestinal upset or neurologic signs.
- Resistance mitigation: Sub‑therapeutic exposure can promote selection of tolerant tick populations, jeopardizing long‑term control.
- Cost efficiency: Using the exact amount prevents waste of medication and reduces the need for repeat treatments.
Veterinarians calculate the dose based on the animal’s weight, using the product label as the definitive guide. Owners should verify the weight before administration and avoid splitting tablets or altering the formulation, as these practices compromise dose accuracy. Regular monitoring of the pet’s weight ensures ongoing compliance with dosing recommendations throughout the treatment period.
Consultation with a Veterinarian
A veterinarian provides the expertise needed to ensure Bravecto is used safely and effectively against tick infestations. The professional evaluates the animal’s health status, identifies any contraindications, and determines the appropriate dosage based on weight and species. This assessment prevents adverse reactions and maximizes the drug’s ability to interrupt the tick’s nervous system, leading to rapid paralysis and death of the parasite.
During the consultation, the veterinarian:
- Reviews the pet’s medical history, including previous treatments and underlying conditions.
- Confirms the correct formulation (chewable tablet or topical) for the specific animal.
- Advises on the timing of administration to align with peak tick activity periods.
- Provides instructions for monitoring the animal after dosing, noting signs of effectiveness or potential side effects.
- Offers guidance on complementary tick control measures, such as environmental management and regular grooming.
By following veterinary guidance, owners ensure that Bravecto’s active ingredient, fluralaner, reaches therapeutic levels in the bloodstream, maintaining protection for up to 12 weeks. This targeted approach reduces the risk of tick-borne diseases and supports overall animal welfare.