Fluralaner

What is fluralaner?

Fluralaner (brand name Bravecto®) is used to treat and prevent flea and tick infestations in dogs and cats. After being administered to a pet, fluralaner is distributed throughout the body. When fleas or ticks bite the pet, they are exposed to the drug and killed.

Sometimes, fluralaner is used to treat sarcoptic mange, demodectic mange, or ear mites in dogs and cats. It is also sometimes used for skin and ear mites in rabbits and hedgehogs. When fluralaner is prescribed for these treatments, it is considered off label (extra label). Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How quickly does it kill fleas and ticks?

Most fleas will be killed within hours of biting a fluralaner-treated pet. However, you will likely continue to see fleas on a treated pet for some time, especially if you have a flea infestation in your home. Fleas continue to hatch and climb onto your pet in search of a blood meal. The fleas’ death prevents reproduction and prevents new eggs from being laid in the home. The more fleas that climb onto your pet and are killed, the faster the infestation will be eliminated.

How do I give fluralaner to my pet?

Oral form (dogs):

• Fluralaner is given by mouth as a chewable tablet. Give the tablet as directed by your veterinarian.
• Give this medication with a meal.
• Be sure your dog consumes the entire dose.
• If your dog vomits within three hours of receiving the chewable tablet, consult your veterinarian before you give another dose. If four or more hours pass before the dog vomits, the medication has likely been absorbed, and the dog is protected.
• There are two oral forms of fluralaner, each with a different dosing schedule. Your veterinarian will indicate when the next dose should be given to your pet.

Topical form (dogs or cats):

• Fluralaner is applied directly to the skin in one or more spots, starting between your pet’s shoulder blades and continuing along the back.
• Topical fluralaner should be applied every 12 weeks unless otherwise directed by your veterinarian.

It takes at least 12 hours for fluralaner to start to kill ticks; improvement in clinical signs should follow.

Can I bathe my pet after applying topical fluralaner?

It is advised to wait at least three days after applying topical fluralaner before bathing your pet.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then start a new dosing schedule. For example, if you forgot to give your pet their dose on June 1 and remember on June 18, give the dose on June 18 and schedule the next dose for July 18 or September 18, depending on your veterinarian's instructions. Do not give your pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects?

Most pets have very few side effects from fluralaner, provided it is given according to label recommendations and at the prescribed interval (or according to your veterinarian’s directions).

Fluralaner may cause the following side effects:

• Vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite
• Flaky skin

Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving fluralaner and contact your veterinarian immediately:

• Muscle tremors
• Seizures
• Incoordination
• Severe upset stomach

Drug sensitivities can develop over time, with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.  

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. At that time, make sure your veterinarian is aware of any other medications or supplements that you are giving to your pet. This long-acting medication should stop working within three months, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE fluralaner in:

• Puppies weighing less than 2 kg (4.4 lb)
• Kittens weighing less than 1.2 kg (2.6 lb)

USE WITH CAUTION in:

• Pets that have a history of seizures
• Pets that are breeding, pregnant, or lactating

DO NOT USE the three-month formulation of fluralaner in:

• Puppies or kittens under six months of age

Are there any drug interactions that I should be aware of?

There are no documented drug interactions for this medication. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
• If fluralaner is used for demodectic mange, your veterinarian will likely monitor skin scrapings.
• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store fluralaner?

• Store fluralaner-based products in the original packaging at room temperature (less than 30°C or 86°F for tablets; less than 25°C or 77°F for topical solution).
• Protect from heat and moisture, sparks, and open flames.

What should I do in case of an emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms.