What is the name of a flea medication? - briefly
A widely recognized flea treatment is Frontline, which contains fipronil. Other common options include Advantage (imidacloprid) and Revolution (selamectin).
What is the name of a flea medication? - in detail
Flea control products are formulated to eliminate adult fleas, interrupt their life cycle, and prevent reinfestation. The most widely recognized agents fall into three categories: topical spot‑on treatments, oral tablets, and collar‑based formulations. Each class contains specific active ingredients that target the nervous system of the parasite, leading to rapid death.
Common spot‑on solutions include:
- Fipronil (e.g., Frontline®, Advantage®) – disrupts GABA‑gated chloride channels.
- Imidacloprid (e.g., Advantage® for cats, K9 Advantix® for dogs) – binds to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors.
- Selamectin (Revolution®) – interferes with glutamate‑gated chloride channels.
Oral tablets are administered monthly or quarterly:
- Nitenpyram (Capstar®) – provides fast knock‑down of adult fleas within 30 minutes.
- Spinosad (Comfortis®) – blocks nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, offering up to one month of protection.
- Afoxolaner (NexGard®) and Fluralaner (Bravecto®) – belong to the isoxazoline class, delivering extended coverage for up to 12 weeks.
Collar‑type products deliver continuous low‑dose exposure:
- Imidacloprid + flumethrin (Seresto®) – releases active agents over an eight‑month period.
Selection criteria depend on species, age, weight, health status, and owner preference. Topical agents are suitable for animals with limited oral intake, while oral tablets provide convenient dosing for pets that tolerate pills. Isoxazoline tablets have demonstrated high efficacy against both fleas and ticks, but veterinary assessment is required for animals with a history of seizures. Collars offer a long‑lasting option but may be unsuitable for breeds with thick fur that impedes drug diffusion.
When choosing a product, verify that it is labeled for the specific animal (dog or cat) and that the dosage aligns with the pet’s weight range. Consult a veterinarian to confirm safety, especially for pregnant or nursing animals, and to integrate flea control into a broader parasite‑management program that includes environmental treatment.