NexGard, a widely recognized brand in flea and tick control for dogs, owes its effectiveness to its active ingredient, afoxolaner. This article delves into the properties, efficacy, and safety profile of afoxolaner, drawing upon reputable sources such as the official NexGard website, DailyMed, and research studies.
Key Facts
- Afoxolaner is part of the isoxazoline family of chemicals.
- NexGard is a chewable tablet that contains afoxolaner as its active ingredient.
- Afoxolaner is used for the treatment and prevention of flea infestations in dogs.
- It is effective in killing fleas within hours of administration and provides long-lasting protection.
- Adverse reactions to afoxolaner are rare but may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, itching, and very rarely, seizures.
- In laboratory studies, NexGard has demonstrated high effectiveness against adult fleas, preventing them from laying eggs and preventing subsequent infestations.
- NexGard has also shown effectiveness against ticks such as Dermacentor variabilis, Ixodes scapularis, Rhipicephalus sanguineus, and Amblyomma americanum.
- It has been found to be effective in preventing Borrelia burgdorferi infections transmitted by lxodes scapularis ticks.
- In a 90-day field study, NexGard showed high effectiveness against fleas in households with existing infestations.
Afoxolaner: A Closer Look
Afoxolaner belongs to the isoxazoline family of chemicals, known for their insecticidal and acaricidal properties. It is formulated as a chewable tablet, making it easy to administer to dogs.
Mechanism of Action
Afoxolaner exerts its action by binding to specific ligand-gated chloride channels in the nervous system of insects and acarines, particularly those gated by the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This binding disrupts the normal transfer of chloride ions across cell membranes, leading to uncontrolled activity in the central nervous system and ultimately causing the death of the parasites.
Efficacy against Fleas
NexGard has demonstrated remarkable efficacy against fleas. Studies have shown that it begins to kill fleas within hours of administration and provides long-lasting protection for up to 35 days. By killing fleas before they can lay eggs, NexGard effectively prevents subsequent infestations.
Effectiveness against Ticks
NexGard has also proven effective against various tick species, including Dermacentor variabilis, Ixodes scapularis, Rhipicephalus sanguineus, and Amblyomma americanum. It provides protection against these ticks for up to 30 days, reducing the risk of tick-borne diseases.
Prevention of Borrelia burgdorferi Infections
In addition to its efficacy against fleas and ticks, NexGard has been found to be effective in preventing Borrelia burgdorferi infections, the causative agent of Lyme disease. By killing Ixodes scapularis ticks, which are known vectors of Borrelia burgdorferi, NexGard reduces the risk of Lyme disease transmission.
Safety Profile
Afoxolaner has a favorable safety profile. Adverse reactions are generally mild and transient, with vomiting being the most commonly reported side effect. Serious adverse reactions, such as seizures, are rare.
Conclusion
Afoxolaner, the active ingredient in NexGard, is a safe and effective treatment for flea and tick infestations in dogs. Its rapid onset of action, long-lasting protection, and broad spectrum of activity make it a valuable tool in parasite control.
References
- NexGard FAQs | NexGard® Range (https://nexgard.com.au/frequently-asked-questions)
- NEXGARD- afoxolaner tablet, chewable (https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=a668d223-47a3-46b7-b642-f2de0dca6ab5)
- DailyMed – Search Results for Afoxolaner (https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/search.cfm?labeltype=all&query=Afoxolaner)
FAQs
What is the active ingredient in NexGard?
Afoxolaner is the active ingredient in NexGard.
What type of chemical is afoxolaner?
Afoxolaner belongs to the isoxazoline family of chemicals.
How does afoxolaner work?
Afoxolaner works by binding to specific receptors in the nervous system of fleas and ticks, causing uncontrolled activity and ultimately leading to their death.
What parasites does NexGard protect against?
NexGard protects dogs against fleas, ticks, and mites.
How long does NexGard last?
NexGard provides protection against fleas and ticks for up to 35 days.
Can NexGard prevent Lyme disease?
Yes, NexGard can help prevent Lyme disease by killing Ixodes scapularis ticks, which are known to transmit the bacteria that causes Lyme disease.
Is NexGard safe for dogs?
Yes, NexGard is safe for dogs when used according to the label directions.
What are the potential side effects of NexGard?
The most common side effect of NexGard is vomiting. Other potential side effects include diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, itching, and very rarely, seizures.