Nexgard Spectra for dogs

Those looking for a treatment for blood-sucking parasites and helminths should consider Nexgard Spectra for dogs. Online reviews are not yet widespread, as the product only appeared on the Russian market in late 2016. Responsible pet owners approach new products with extreme caution. However, animals can develop resistance to older medications, especially if the same product has been used for many years. If the usual treatments stop working, the animal is in mortal danger. Nexgard Spectra can be an excellent alternative for treating helminths, fleas, and ticks.

Release form and mechanism of action

Nexgard Spectra is an antiparasitic chewable tablet from the French manufacturer Merial. The drug has been tested by the Russian Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (Rosselkhoznadzor) and is recognized as effective in the treatment and prevention of parasitic diseases.

The tablets work thanks to the active ingredients: afoxolaner and milbecin oxime. Afoxolaner kills fleas and ticks by acting on the parasites' nervous system.

The ingredient begins working within 24 hours of entering the body. The manufacturer promises that the product will kill 100% of fleas thanks to afoxolaner. Milbecine oxime, on the other hand, is a broad-spectrum anthelmintic.

The ingredient opens glutamate-sensitive chloride channels in the bodies of roundworms, nematodes, and heartworms. Ultimately, all nerve impulses are blocked, leading to the death of the parasites. Afoxolaner and milbecin oxime work synergistically, ensuring truly complete elimination of all major types of both external and internal parasites.

Unlike topical drops, the tablet form allows for internal, rather than external, treatment. The active ingredients are absorbed into the bloodstream, providing comprehensive parasite control. Clinical studies and veterinarians' experience with the product also demonstrate that Nexgard is effective in preventing Lyme disease and anaplasmosis. ehrlichiosisThus, the drug can be used year-round, or immediately before traveling to areas with a negative epidemiological situation.

Price

The price of NexGard Spectra for dogs depends on the concentration of active ingredients. Since this product is new and an improved formula of NexGard (milbecin oxime is added), the price is quite high. The packaging indicates not only the concentration of active ingredients but also the animal's weight.

* The price is indicated for one tablet, however, in the original packaging, 3 tablets are sold in one cardboard box.

Instructions for use

Nexgard is approved for use on puppies over 8 weeks old and weighing at least 2 kilograms. Afoxolaner's ability to kill fleas and worms at all stages of their life cycle makes it suitable for preventative use. Experts claim it is also effective against ticks.

Because the chewable tablets have the flavor and aroma of real beef, dogs usually swallow them whole without issue. However, if for any reason your pet refuses the medication, follow the simple instructions.

1. Tear off the foil blister and squeeze out the tablet.
2. Grab the dog's head between your knees.
3. Apply quick and firm pressure to the junction of the jaws.
4. Place the tablet in your mouth (preferably on the root of your tongue).
5. Give the animal sufficient water.

If necessary, during the season of highest parasite activity, the procedure can be repeated monthly.

Advantages

The drug isn't the fastest parasite eradication medication. It takes at least 24 hours for the medication to take effect, and the itching caused by the parasites will subside after 2-3 days. The manufacturer justifies the relatively long wait for results by citing the minimal amount of aggressive ingredients in its formula. An undeniable advantage of Nexgard is that it can be combined with other medications, such as those used to treat heartworms.

Other advantages of Nexgard compared to similar products:

• protects the animal not only from fleas, but also ticks and various types of worms;
• has a meaty taste and aroma, which makes working with the dog easier;
• prolonged action: prevents the appearance of fleas and ticks for a month;
• can be used to treat flea dermatitis;
• You can have free contact with the treated dog.

Although Nexgard can be used in combination with other medications, it is best to administer the drug under the supervision of a veterinarian.

Allergies and side effects

Since Nexgard for dogs is a relatively new drug, responsible owners are trying to find out how safe it is. The instructions indicate that side effects are extremely rare and include:

• vomiting;
• short-term increase in itching;
• diarrhea;
• increased salivation.

The risk of allergic reactions is significantly increased in collies, bobtails, and shelties. Moreover, allergy symptoms can vary significantly, as the formula contains two active ingredients. An animal may be intolerant to just one component, or they may have an adverse reaction to the entire product. It is crucial to monitor your dog's behavior for two days after administration to ensure prompt veterinary attention.

The most common symptoms of overdose and allergy are:

• the appearance of erythema, itchy and flaky areas on the animal’s skin;
• loss of appetite;
• gastrointestinal upset in the form of vomiting and diarrhea;
• constant lethargy.

The drug should not be given in cases where:

• An allergic reaction to drugs containing afoxilaner has been previously observed.
• The animal suffers from skin problems (open wounds, suppuration, lichen), since Nexgard provokes increased itching.
• Problems with the immune system are observed.

But if the animal does develop an allergic reaction, it is necessary to take prompt measures to eliminate the unpleasant symptoms: treat with any external anti-itching agent (hydrocortisone ointment, Fluorocort) and give an antihistamine.

Reviews from veterinarians and pet owners

Anna, the owner dachshunds:

"I used to always treat my dachshund with special drops. However, after my baby was born, I thought about changing the formulation. A growing toddler can easily pet the dog immediately after treatment and then put his hands, with the remaining product, in his mouth. I decided to buy Nexgard Spectra. The tablet smelled pleasant, so my pet ate it without a problem. However, within 24 hours, the dog started itching like crazy. I had to rush to the vet. The vet said the itching was normal and indicated the drug was working (but still prescribed zinc ointment). The dachshund's itching and fleas disappeared within 24 hours, but I wouldn't risk giving Nexgard to my pet again."

Olga Davydenko, veterinarian:

"I'm still hesitant to recommend Nexgard to my clients. It's new and under-researched. There are many proven tablets on the market with similar, comprehensive effects. It's also concerning that many dogs given Nexgard Spectra without prior consultation develop severe itching. Overall, these tablets aren't yet the first-choice treatment."

Valentina, owner of a terrier:

"I live in the taiga, and every summer I pick dozens of ticks out of my dog's fur. Collars, sprays, and drops had no noticeable effect. At the veterinarian's, they suggested I try Nexgard Spectra tablets. I was apprehensive about taking a new medication, but I decided to give my dog ​​one tablet to try it. I was amazed by the results: my dog's fur has been free of fleas and ticks for a month now! I'll be buying more."

Read also:

• Frontline for dogs
• Tablets, drops, and tick remedies for dogs
• How to remove a tick from a dog at home