How long does Bravecto tablet work in dogs against ticks? - briefly
A single oral dose of Bravecto protects dogs from ticks for up to 12 weeks, with efficacy beginning within a few hours after administration.
How long does Bravecto tablet work in dogs against ticks? - in detail
Bravecto chewable tablets contain a single dose of fluralaner, a systemic acaricide that circulates in the bloodstream and kills attached ticks within hours. After administration, therapeutic plasma concentrations are maintained for approximately 12 weeks, providing continuous protection against all common tick species that infest dogs.
Key points regarding the protective period:
- Typical interval: One tablet is administered every 12 weeks (84 days). This schedule aligns with the drug’s pharmacokinetic profile and ensures uninterrupted efficacy.
- Onset of action: Tick kill begins within 2–4 hours after the animal ingests the tablet, reaching near‑complete elimination by 24 hours.
- Species coverage: Effective against Ixodes ricinus, Dermacentor variabilis, Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Amblyomma americanum, and other prevalent ticks.
- Influencing factors: Body weight, health status, and concurrent medications can slightly modify plasma levels, but the 12‑week window remains valid for dogs weighing 4.4 lb (2 kg) to 88 lb (40 kg) as specified by the label.
- Safety considerations: The product is approved for use in dogs older than 8 weeks and is well‑tolerated; adverse events are rare and usually mild (e.g., transient gastrointestinal upset).
If a dog misses a scheduled dose, the protective window shortens proportionally, and re‑dosing should occur as soon as possible to restore full coverage. For high‑risk environments, such as areas with heavy tick populations, maintaining the strict 12‑week regimen is the most reliable method to prevent tick‑borne diseases.