How many months does Bravecto work against ticks? - briefly
Bravecto delivers up to twelve weeks of tick protection after a single oral dose. The efficacy persists for approximately three months.
How many months does Bravecto work against ticks? - in detail
Bravecto is an oral chewable medication containing fluralaner, designed for dogs and cats to control tick infestations. The active ingredient remains in the bloodstream at therapeutic levels for a prolonged period, allowing a single administration to protect the animal without additional treatments.
The protection period extends up to twelve weeks (approximately three months) after a correctly dosed dose. This duration is supported by field studies demonstrating effective tick kill rates throughout the entire interval for the most common species, including Ixodes ricinus, Dermacentor variabilis and Rhipicephalus sanguineus. Some tick species show peak efficacy slightly earlier, but the label guarantees full activity through the twelve‑week window.
Key factors that can influence the length of efficacy:
- Correct dose based on the animal’s weight; under‑dosing reduces plasma concentration and shortens protection.
- Species of the host (dog or cat); both receive the same twelve‑week claim when dosed appropriately.
- Tick species and life stage; adult ticks are killed rapidly, while larvae may require longer exposure.
- Environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity, which affect tick activity but not the drug’s pharmacokinetics.
Re‑administration should occur at the twelve‑week mark to maintain continuous protection. In regions with exceptionally high tick pressure, veterinarians may advise a shorter interval, but the standard schedule aligns with the product’s proven duration.
Safety data indicate a favorable profile, with most adverse events limited to mild gastrointestinal upset. The long‑lasting action reduces handling frequency, decreasing stress for both animal and owner while providing reliable tick control throughout the designated period.