How does Bravecto for dogs against ticks work? - briefly
Bravecto contains fluralaner, which is absorbed into the dog’s bloodstream after a single oral dose and stays at therapeutic levels for up to 12 weeks, killing ticks that attach. It inhibits the parasite’s GABA‑gated chloride channels, causing uncontrolled nervous system activity and rapid death.
How does Bravecto for dogs against ticks work? - in detail
Bravecto contains the active molecule fluralaner, a member of the isoxazoline class. After oral administration, the compound is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, reaching peak plasma concentrations within 2–4 hours. Its high lipophilicity enables extensive distribution into skin, hair follicles, and sebaceous glands, where ticks attach and feed.
Fluralaner acts as a non‑competitive antagonist of γ‑aminobutyric acid‑gated chloride channels in arthropod nervous systems. By binding to a distinct site on the receptor, it prevents chloride influx, leading to uncontrolled neuronal excitation, paralysis, and death of the parasite. The selective affinity for insect receptors over mammalian ones provides a wide safety margin for the host animal.
Key pharmacokinetic features that support long‑lasting protection:
- Half‑life: Approximately 12 weeks in canine plasma, sustaining effective concentrations throughout the dosing interval.
- Protein binding: > 99 % to plasma proteins, reducing clearance and maintaining steady exposure.
- Metabolism: Minimal hepatic transformation; the parent compound is the primary active entity.
Efficacy data show that a single dose eliminates existing tick infestations within 24 hours and prevents new attachments for up to 12 weeks. The oral tablet is formulated for dogs weighing 4 kg (9 lb) or more; dosage is calculated on a per‑kilogram basis to ensure consistent plasma levels across body sizes.
Safety considerations include:
- Contraindications: Dogs under 8 weeks of age, under 2 kg, or with known hypersensitivity to isoxazolines.
- Adverse events: Rare, typically mild gastrointestinal upset or transient pruritus.
- Drug interactions: No significant interactions with common veterinary medications; however, concurrent use of other ectoparasitic agents is unnecessary and may increase the risk of adverse effects.
Resistance monitoring indicates that the novel mode of action reduces the likelihood of cross‑resistance with older acaricides such as pyrethroids and organophosphates. Nevertheless, proper dosing schedules and adherence to label recommendations are essential to maintain efficacy and mitigate the emergence of resistant tick populations.
In summary, Bravecto provides systemic tick control through rapid absorption, prolonged plasma presence, and targeted disruption of parasite neural transmission, delivering a single oral treatment that safeguards dogs for three months.