Inhibits GABA-gated and glutamate-gated chloride channels in arthropod neurons, causing uncontrolled neuromuscular activity and death of fleas and ticks
At a glance
Class
Isoxazoline ectoparasiticide
Dosing
Flea and tick prevention/treatment
Duration: Year-round or seasonal
Safety
Absolute contraindications — do not use
Adverse effects
Common
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Lethargy
Serious
Seizures (rare)
Ataxia
Muscle tremors
Ectoparasite burdenNeurological signs
Interactions
No documented interactions.
Brands
International
NexGard
Boehringer Ingelheim
India
NexGard
Boehringer Ingelheim India
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Afoxolaner?
Afoxolaner is a isoxazoline ectoparasiticide used in pets. Inhibits GABA-gated and glutamate-gated chloride channels in arthropod neurons, causing uncontrolled neuromuscular activity and death of fleas and ticks
›What is Afoxolaner used for in pets?
Afoxolaner is used in veterinary medicine for: Flea and tick prevention/treatment.
›What is the Afoxolaner dose for dogs?
For dogs, Afoxolaner is typically dosed as follows — Flea and tick prevention/treatment: 2.5–5 mg/kg PO Once monthly. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Afoxolaner?
Common: Vomiting, Diarrhoea, Lethargy. Serious (call your vet immediately): Seizures (rare), Ataxia, Muscle tremors.
›Does Afoxolaner need a prescription?
Yes. Afoxolaner is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
›When should Afoxolaner not be used?
Do not use Afoxolaner if: Cats (not approved for feline use).
References
CDSCO approvals (India) — 1
Afoxolaner 68.0mg and 136.0 mg chewable tablet
M/s Boehringer Ingelheim India Ltd · Approved 07-08.2019
Treatment and prevention of flea infestation in dogs ctenocephalides felis and c canis for at least 1 month the product
Source: CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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