How do drops work against ticks? - briefly
Drops contain acaricidal compounds that penetrate the tick’s cuticle, disrupting nervous function and leading to rapid death. Applied to the host’s skin, the formulation spreads through the oil base to reach attached parasites.
How do drops work against ticks? - in detail
Tick‑control drops rely on systemic or contact acaricides that penetrate the skin and distribute through the host’s bloodstream. After application, the active compound spreads via the lipid layer of the skin, entering capillaries and reaching peripheral tissues where feeding ticks attach. The toxin interferes with the tick’s nervous system, typically by blocking gamma‑aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors or inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, resulting in paralysis and death within hours of feeding.
Key mechanisms include:
« Dermal absorption » – the formulation contains solvents that enhance permeation across the stratum corneum, allowing rapid entry into the circulatory system.
« Systemic distribution » – once in the blood, the agent circulates to all body regions, ensuring that any tick that attaches encounters lethal concentrations.
« Neurotoxic action » – most compounds target ion channels or enzymatic pathways essential for tick motor function, disrupting synaptic transmission.
« Residual activity » – certain molecules bind to plasma proteins, extending efficacy for several weeks and providing protection against repeated infestations.
Formulations differ by active ingredient:
• Fipronil – blocks GABA‑gated chloride channels; high potency, long residual effect.
• Imidacloprid – agonist of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors; rapid onset, moderate duration.
• Selamectin – opens glutamate‑gated chloride channels; broad‑spectrum activity, effective against larvae and adults.
• Fluralaner – inhibits GABA and glutamate receptors; prolonged protection up to 12 weeks.
Application guidelines emphasize uniform coverage of the dorsal surface, avoiding contact with eyes or mucous membranes. Dosage is calculated per kilogram of body weight, ensuring therapeutic plasma concentrations without exceeding toxicity thresholds. Safety data indicate low dermal irritation in mammals, but strict adherence to withdrawal periods is required for food‑producing animals.
Resistance management recommends rotating active ingredients annually and integrating environmental control measures, such as pasture rotation and regular grooming, to reduce tick populations and delay the emergence of resistant strains.