Simparica for Dogs: Simparica is a monthly oral flea and tick medication for dogs. It comes in chewable beef-flavored tablets that you give your dog once a month to kill fleas, flea larvae, and ticks like the black-legged tick.
Simparica contains sarolaner, an isoxazoline class pesticide that works by paralyzing and killing parasites. Within 24 hours of taking the tablet, the active ingredient is absorbed into your dog’s bloodstream where it remains for a full month. Any fleas or ticks that bite your dog during this time will die.
This fast-acting, long-lasting medication provides continuous protection for your pup against annoying and disease-carrying pests. By preventing flea infestations, Simparica also helps reduce the risk of flea allergy dermatitis. It’s safe for dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds and can be used year-round without interruption.
Simparica requires a prescription from your vet and is available as a one-month, three-month, or six-month supply. The exact dosage depends on your dog’s weight. It should be given with food for maximum effectiveness.
While Simparica is generally very safe, the most common side effects may include vomiting, decreased appetite, diarrhea, lethargy, and itching. Be sure to talk to your vet about any concerns you may have before starting your dog on Simparica.
With convenient monthly dosing, Simparica helps keep your faithful friend pest-free and protected. Ask your vet if this oral flea and tick medication is right for your dog.
READ ALSO: The Benefits of Doxycycline for Dogs
How Does Simparica Work to Kill Fleas And Ticks?
Simparica contains sarolaner, an isoxazoline class antiparasitic that works by disrupting important neurotransmitters fleas and ticks need to function properly.
Once ingested, sarolaner is rapidly absorbed into your dog’s bloodstream, then distributed to tissues in the body, including the skin. Within just 8 to 12 hours after administration, Simparica reaches levels in the blood and tissues that kill fleas fast and keep on killing fleas before they can lay eggs for 35 days.
- For fleas, sarolaner works by blocking neurotransmitters involved in muscle function, paralysis and feeding behaviors. This results in rapid death of fleas, usually within 24 hours.
Ticks are also affected in a similar way:
- Sarolaner disrupts tick neurotransmitters needed for mobility, feeding, and reproduction. Paralysis and death of ticks generally occurs within 24-48 hours after exposure.
- The antiparasitic effect persists for a full month in tissues and continues to kill new fleas and ticks that come into contact with your dog. This sustained action helps eliminate existing infestations and prevents reinfestation by killing newly acquired parasites before they can establish a population.
By stopping the flea lifecycle and killing ticks before they transmit disease, Simparica provides comprehensive protection for your furry friend. The once-a-month, chewable tablet can give you assurance your dog will stay pest-free and protected from the inside out. Talk to your vet about whether Simparica is right for your four-legged family member.
Simparica Side Effects
Simparica is generally a safe medication for dogs, but some side effects are possible. As with any medication, be on the lookout for adverse reactions in your dog after giving Simparica.
1. Gastrointestinal Issues
The most common side effects are mild gastrointestinal upset like diarrhea, vomiting, and decreased appetite. These effects usually only last a day or two. If your dog experiences severe or persistent gastrointestinal problems after taking Simparica, contact your vet.
2. Lethargy or Hyperactivity
Some dogs may become lethargic or seem overly hyperactive for a day or two after treatment. These behavioral changes should resolve on their own, but call your vet if your dog’s activity level does not return to normal within a few days.
3. Skin Irritation
Rarely, dogs may experience skin irritation, redness, or rash at the site of application. Washing the area with water should relieve irritation. Seek vet care for severe or worsening rash.
4. Neurological Issues
Very rarely, dogs have experienced neurological issues like seizures or muscle tremors after Simparica treatment. These reactions tend to occur within 3 days of application. Contact your vet immediately if your dog shows these or other neurological signs. Your vet may recommend discontinuing Simparica treatment.
While the side effects of Simparica are usually minor, it’s important to monitor your dog for any adverse reactions after giving this medication, especially the first few times. Consult your vet right away if you observe severe, persistent, or worsening side effects. They can determine if Simparica is still appropriate and safe for your dog or if an alternative treatment may be better.
READ ALSO: Meloxicam for Dogs: Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects and More
FAQs
How quickly does Simparica start working?
Simparica starts killing fleas within 3 hours of administration. It’s fast-acting and provides month-long protection against fleas and flea infestations. Most pet owners notice a decrease in scratching and irritation within 24 to 48 hours of the first dose.
Is Simparica safe for dogs of all ages?
Simparica is safe for dogs and puppies 8 weeks of age and older. However, the appropriate dosage is based on your dog’s weight. Be sure to give the correct dosage for your dog’s size as directed.
What if I miss a dose of Simparica?
If you miss a dose of Simparica, give it as soon as possible. However, if it is close to the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to the regular schedule. Do not double up or give extra doses. Just resume the normal monthly schedule.
Does Simparica kill ticks?
Yes, Simparica kills several species of ticks, including those that may transmit Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. It starts working within 24 hours to kill ticks on dogs. Monthly use of Simparica helps prevent tick infestations and reduces the risk of tick-borne diseases in dogs.