Which tick tablets are best to use? - briefly
For most pets, oral tablets containing afoxolaner («NexGard») or fluralaner («Bravecto») deliver rapid tick kill and up to 30 days of protection. When immediate efficacy is essential, sarolaner tablets («Simparica») provide 24‑hour tick control.
Which tick tablets are best to use? - in detail
When selecting oral acaricides for companion animals, consider the active ingredient, spectrum of activity, pharmacokinetics, and safety profile. The most widely studied compounds include afoxolaner, fluralaner, sarolaner, and isoxazoline‑based formulations. Each provides systemic protection against adult ticks and, in many cases, larval and nymph stages.
Key criteria for evaluation:
- Active ingredient – Isoxazoline class (afoxolaner, fluralaner, sarolaner) demonstrates rapid kill rates (≤ 48 hours) and maintains efficacy for up to 12 weeks, reducing re‑infestation risk.
- Target species – Product labeling must specify canine or feline use; off‑label administration can lead to adverse events.
- Dosage frequency – Monthly tablets (e.g., afoxolaner) require consistent administration; extended‑interval products (e.g., fluralaner) reduce handling frequency.
- Safety margin – Clinical data show low incidence of gastrointestinal upset; however, breed‑specific sensitivities (e.g., Collies with ivermectin‑sensitive MDR1 mutation) necessitate caution with certain formulations.
- Regulatory approval – Products approved by relevant authorities (FDA, EMA) guarantee compliance with quality standards.
Recommended oral tick control tablets, based on peer‑reviewed studies and post‑marketing surveillance:
- Afoxolaner 2.5 mg kg (monthly) – Broad spectrum against Ixodes scapularis, Dermacentor variabilis; rapid onset; proven safety in dogs over 8 weeks of age.
- Fluralaner 56 mg kg (quarterly) – Extended protection up to 12 weeks; effective against Amblyomma americanum; minimal liver enzyme alteration observed.
- Sarolaner 2 mg kg (monthly) – High efficacy against Rhipicephalus sanguineus; favorable palatability; low incidence of transient vomiting.
- Isoxazoline combination (afoxolaner + milbemycin oxime) – Simultaneous control of ticks, fleas, and heartworm; convenient for multi‑parasite management.
For cats, the only isoxazoline tablet currently authorized is fluralaner 40 mg kg (quarterly), providing comparable tick kill times and a safety record comparable to canine products.
When prescribing, verify weight‑based dosing, assess potential drug interactions (e.g., concomitant use of glucocorticoids), and monitor for rare neurologic signs reported in a minority of cases. Adherence to label instructions and regular veterinary evaluation ensure optimal tick control while minimizing adverse outcomes.