What is the name of the tablet for ticks and fleas? - briefly
The oral tablet commonly prescribed for tick and flea control is Bravecto (fluralaner).
What is the name of the tablet for ticks and fleas? - in detail
NexGard is a chewable tablet specifically formulated to eliminate both ticks and fleas in dogs. The product contains afoxolaner, an insecticide and acaricide belonging to the isoxazoline class. After oral administration, afoxolaner is absorbed into the bloodstream and remains active for 30 days, providing continuous protection as ticks and fleas feed on the host.
Key characteristics:
- Active ingredient: Afoxolaner (2.7 mg per 10 lb of body weight).
- Dosage range: 0.5 mg/kg, adjusted according to the dog’s weight; tablets are available in several strength tiers to ensure accurate dosing.
- Mode of action: Binds to GABA‑ and glutamate‑gated chloride channels in arthropod nervous systems, causing uncontrolled neuronal activity and rapid death of parasites.
- Efficacy timeline: Flea kill within 4 hours of ingestion; tick kill within 8 hours, with sustained activity for a full month.
- Administration: Given once a month with food; tablets are flavored to encourage voluntary consumption.
- Safety profile: Tested in dogs over 8 weeks of age and weighing at least 4 lb (2 kg). Mild adverse events may include transient gastrointestinal upset or lethargy; severe reactions are rare.
- Regulatory status: Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for veterinary use.
Alternative oral products with similar indications include Bravecto (fluralaner) and Simparica (sarolaner). Each uses a different isoxazoline compound, offers comparable efficacy, and varies in dosing interval (Bravecto provides up to 12 weeks of protection). Selection depends on the animal’s size, health status, and owner preference.