How long does it take for Bravecto to act against ticks? - briefly
Bravecto begins killing ticks within 12 hours of administration, and most infestations are eliminated by 24 hours. The drug maintains efficacy for up to 12 weeks after a single dose.
How long does it take for Bravecto to act against ticks? - in detail
Bravecto contains the active ingredient fluralaner, a systemic acaricide absorbed into the bloodstream after oral administration (chewable tablet for dogs) or topical application (spot‑on for cats). Peak plasma concentrations are typically reached within 2–8 hours. Once in circulation, the compound binds to GABA‑ and glutamate‑gated chloride channels in ticks, causing rapid paralysis and death.
- Onset of kill: Most studies report ≥90 % mortality of attached ticks within 8 hours of treatment. Complete eradication (100 %) is observed by 12–24 hours, depending on tick species and life stage.
- Species variation:
• Ixodes scapularis (black‑legged tick) – 90 % kill at 6 hours, full kill by 12 hours.
• Dermacentor variabilis (American dog tick) – 90 % kill at 8 hours, full kill by 24 hours.
• Rhipicephalus sanguineus (brown dog tick) – 90 % kill at 4 hours, full kill by 12 hours. - Life‑stage impact: Adult ticks generally succumb faster than nymphs or larvae because larger blood meals accelerate drug uptake.
- Host factors: Normal hepatic function and body condition support the expected absorption timeline; severe illness or concurrent medications that induce cytochrome P450 enzymes may modestly delay peak levels.
The systemic nature of the product means that ticks are killed after they begin feeding, regardless of where they attach. Consequently, a single dose provides continuous protection for up to 12 weeks, maintaining plasma concentrations above the minimum effective level throughout that interval.