What is the name of a flea medication for dogs? - briefly
Bravecto (fluralaner) is a widely used oral and topical flea treatment for dogs. Other FDA‑approved options include NexGard (afoxolaner) and Simparica (sarolaner).
What is the name of a flea medication for dogs? - in detail
Flea control products for canines are identified by their active ingredients and commercial brands. The most widely recognized options include:
- Nitenpyram (Capstar) – oral tablet that begins killing adult fleas within 30 minutes; effective for one‑day protection.
- Spinosad (Comfortis) – oral chewable tablet providing 30 days of activity; kills adult fleas rapidly and reduces egg production.
- Imidacloprid + Pyriproxyfen (Advantage II, K9 Advantix II) – topical solution applied to the neck; kills adult fleas within hours and interrupts the life cycle for a month.
- S-methoprene (Sentry) – topical spray that prevents flea eggs from hatching; used in conjunction with an adulticide for comprehensive control.
- Selamectin (Revolution) – monthly spot‑on that eliminates adult fleas, larvae, and eggs; also protects against heartworm, ear mites, and certain ticks.
- Fluralaner (Bravecto) – chewable tablet or topical formulation offering up to 12 weeks of protection; kills fleas and ticks after a single dose.
- Afoxolaner (NexGard) – monthly chewable tablet that destroys adult fleas and several tick species within hours of administration.
Key considerations when selecting a product:
- Spectrum of activity – some formulations target only fleas, while others also address ticks, heartworm, or mites.
- Administration route – oral tablets provide rapid systemic action; spot‑on treatments spread across the skin and coat.
- Duration of effect – options range from daily to quarterly dosing schedules.
- Safety profile – most agents are safe for adult dogs over a specific weight threshold; puppies, pregnant or lactating dogs may require alternative choices.
- Resistance management – rotating active ingredients annually helps prevent flea populations from developing tolerance.
Veterinarians typically recommend a regimen that combines an adulticide with an insect growth regulator to break the flea life cycle and sustain long‑term control. Proper dosing according to the animal’s weight and adherence to the product’s label are essential for efficacy and safety.