How long do tick tablets work? - briefly
Tick tablets provide protection for approximately 30 days following a single dose. Efficacy can differ according to the specific formulation and the animal’s metabolic rate.
How long do tick tablets work? - in detail
Tick tablets contain systemic acaricides that circulate in the bloodstream after oral administration. Once absorbed, the active compound binds to neural receptors of attached arthropods, causing paralysis and death. The period during which the medication remains lethal to ticks depends on the specific product, its pharmacokinetic profile, and the animal’s physiological characteristics.
Typical durations of efficacy for the most widely used oral formulations are:
- Afoxolaner (e.g., NexGard) – protective effect lasts approximately 30 days after a single dose.
- Fluralaner (e.g., Bravecto) – maintains activity for up to 12 weeks (84 days) following administration.
- Sarolaner (e.g., Simparica) – provides coverage for 30 days per dose.
- Lotilaner (e.g., Credelio) – effective for 30 days after ingestion.
Factors influencing the length of protection include:
- Body weight: dose adjustments ensure therapeutic plasma concentrations are achieved.
- Metabolic rate: faster metabolism may reduce plasma levels, shortening the effective window.
- Health status: hepatic or renal impairment can alter drug clearance.
- Tick species and resistance patterns: some populations exhibit reduced susceptibility, potentially diminishing efficacy.
Steady-state concentrations are reached after the first administration; subsequent doses maintain plasma levels within the therapeutic range. For long‑acting products, a single dose supplies sufficient active ingredient to suppress tick attachment throughout the claimed period, provided the animal receives the medication on schedule.
When selecting a product, verify the labeled duration, consider the animal’s size and health, and adhere to the recommended dosing interval to preserve continuous protection against tick infestations.