Flea and tick tablet for dogs: how does it work? - briefly
Oral tablets contain an insecticide that is absorbed into the bloodstream, kills parasites that bite the animal, and spreads through the skin via the oil glands to protect the entire coat. The active ingredient remains effective for a set period, eliminating fleas and ticks before they can reproduce.
Flea and tick tablet for dogs: how does it work? - in detail
Oral flea‑and‑tick medication for dogs works through systemic distribution of insecticidal and acaricidal compounds after ingestion. The active ingredient is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, enters the bloodstream, and reaches peripheral tissues where parasites feed. When a flea or tick bites the treated animal, it ingests the compound and experiences rapid neurological disruption, leading to paralysis and death.
Key mechanisms include:
- Neuroreceptor antagonism – compounds such as spinosad bind to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, causing continuous stimulation of nerve cells and eventual exhaustion.
- GABA‑mediated inhibition – ingredients like afoxolaner and fluralaner block gamma‑aminobutyric acid‑gated chloride channels, preventing inhibitory signals and resulting in uncontrolled neuronal firing.
- Metabolic interference – some agents disrupt mitochondrial function, depriving parasites of energy.
The pharmacokinetic profile determines the duration of protection. After oral administration, peak plasma concentrations are reached within 2–4 hours. Lipophilic molecules distribute into skin and hair follicles, maintaining effective levels for 30 days or longer, depending on the formulation. Excretion occurs primarily via feces and urine, with a half‑life ranging from several days to weeks.
Dosage recommendations are weight‑based to ensure therapeutic plasma concentrations while minimizing toxicity. Safety margins are established through extensive toxicology testing; adverse effects are rare and typically limited to mild gastrointestinal upset.
Resistance management relies on rotating products with different modes of action and adhering to label‑specified treatment intervals. Combining oral tablets with environmental control measures—such as regular vacuuming and treatment of the home environment—enhances overall efficacy.
In summary, oral flea and tick tablets deliver active agents systemically, exploit the parasites’ blood‑feeding behavior, and induce rapid neurotoxic effects that eliminate infestations while providing sustained protection through controlled pharmacokinetics.