How do ticks die under the effect of Bravecto? - briefly
Bravecto delivers fluralaner, which blocks GABA‑gated chloride channels, causing rapid neuronal hyperexcitation, paralysis and death of the tick within 24‑48 hours. The parasite stops feeding and is expelled from the host.
How do ticks die under the effect of Bravecto? - in detail
Bravecto, a systemic acaricide containing the active ingredient fluralaner, reaches the bloodstream of treated animals and is ingested by attached ticks during blood feeding. Once inside the tick’s hemolymph, fluralaner binds to γ‑aminobutyric acid (GABA)‑gated chloride channels and glutamate‑gated chloride channels. This binding blocks inhibitory neurotransmission, causing continuous neuronal firing and loss of muscle coordination. The resulting hyperexcitation leads to rapid paralysis and cessation of feeding.
The lethal process proceeds through several observable stages:
- Initial exposure: Tick ingests blood containing fluralaner within minutes of attachment.
- Neurological disruption: GABA and glutamate receptors are blocked, preventing chloride influx that normally hyperpolarizes nerve cells.
- Motor dysfunction: Uncontrolled nerve impulses produce tremors, loss of grip, and inability to move.
- Metabolic collapse: Persistent neuronal activity depletes ATP reserves, impairing cellular homeostasis.
- Death: Irreversible damage to the nervous system culminates in organismal mortality, typically within 24–48 hours post‑exposure.
Pharmacokinetic data indicate that effective concentrations persist in the host’s plasma for up to 12 weeks, ensuring continuous exposure for feeding ticks throughout the treatment interval. The rapid onset of paralysis, combined with sustained systemic levels, eliminates both adult and immature stages of the parasite, preventing disease transmission.