How long does Bravecto work against ticks? - briefly
Bravecto delivers up to twelve weeks of continuous protection against tick infestations after a single oral administration. Efficacy remains consistent throughout this period, preventing new attachments until the next dose.
How long does Bravecto work against ticks? - in detail
Bravecto, an oral medication containing the active ingredient fluralaner, provides systemic tick control for dogs and cats. After a single dose, the compound distributes into the bloodstream and reaches concentrations sufficient to kill attached ticks and prevent new infestations.
Pharmacokinetic studies indicate that therapeutic plasma levels persist for approximately twelve weeks. Within this interval, the product maintains ≥ 90 % efficacy against common tick species such as Ixodes ricinus, Dermacentor variabilis, and Rhipicephalus sanguineus. Efficacy data show:
- Day 1–3: ≥ 95 % of ticks killed after attachment.
- Day 7–14: ≥ 92 % kill rate, preventing further feeding.
- Week 4–8: ≥ 90 % efficacy maintained, despite regular exposure.
- Week 9–12: efficacy gradually declines, falling below 80 % toward the end of the period.
Clinical trials confirm that a single dose protects dogs for up to three months, with no need for additional administration until the end of this window. Cats receive a similar protection period when formulated for felines.
Factors influencing the duration of action include animal weight, health status, and metabolic rate. Overweight or severely ill animals may exhibit slightly reduced plasma concentrations, potentially shortening the effective window. Seasonal variations in tick activity do not alter the pharmacological lifespan of the product but affect the likelihood of encountering ticks during the protection period.
Re‑treatment is recommended at the twelve‑week mark to sustain continuous coverage. Failure to administer the next dose before plasma levels fall below the therapeutic threshold can result in diminished protection and increased risk of tick‑borne diseases.