Binds to insect nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, causing continuous nerve stimulation, paralysis, and death of fleas and lice; minimal mammalian receptor affinity
At a glance
Class
Neonicotinoid insecticide
Storage
Store below 25°C, protect from heat sources
Dosing
Flea treatment and prevention
Duration: Monthly as needed; year-round in endemic areas
Flea treatment and prevention
Duration: Monthly as needed
Safety
Absolute contraindications — do not use
Kittens under 8 weeks
Use with caution
Adverse effects
Common
Transient skin irritation at application site
Temporary hair loss at site
Serious
Neurological signs if ingested orally (tremors, salivation)
Allergic dermatitis (rare)
Flea burden assessmentSkin at application site
Interactions
No documented interactions.
Brands
India
Fiprofort Plus (with fipronil)
Cipla
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Imidacloprid?
Imidacloprid is a neonicotinoid insecticide used in pets. Binds to insect nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, causing continuous nerve stimulation, paralysis, and death of fleas and lice; minimal mammalian receptor affinity
›What is Imidacloprid used for in pets?
Imidacloprid is used in veterinary medicine for: Flea treatment and prevention.
›What is the Imidacloprid dose for dogs?
For dogs, Imidacloprid is typically dosed as follows — Flea treatment and prevention: 10–25 mg/kg Topical Monthly. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Imidacloprid dose for cats?
For cats, Imidacloprid is typically dosed as follows — Flea treatment and prevention: 10–20 mg/kg Topical Monthly. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Imidacloprid?
Common: Transient skin irritation at application site, Temporary hair loss at site. Serious (call your vet immediately): Neurological signs if ingested orally (tremors, salivation), Allergic dermatitis (rare).
›Does Imidacloprid need a prescription?
Imidacloprid is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
›When should Imidacloprid not be used?
Do not use Imidacloprid if: Oral ingestion (topical product only).
References
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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