Binds to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in insect nervous system with much higher affinity than mammalian receptors (selective toxicity). Causes sustained depolarization, paralysis, and death of fleas and lice within hours of contact.
At a glance
Class
Neonicotinoid Insecticide
Storage
Store at room temperature below 30°C
Dosing
Applied to skin between shoulder blades
Safety
Flea burden assessmentApplication site for irritation
Interactions
No documented interactions.
Brands
Other markets
Advantage Multi (with moxidectin)
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Imidacloprid (Systemic)?
Imidacloprid (Systemic) is a neonicotinoid insecticide used in pets. Binds to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in insect nervous system with much higher affinity than mammalian receptors (selective toxicity). Causes sustained depolarization, paralysis, and death of fleas and lice within hours of contact.
›What is Imidacloprid (Systemic) used for in pets?
Imidacloprid (Systemic) is used in veterinary medicine for: Applied to skin between shoulder blades; Same application as dogs.
›What is the Imidacloprid (Systemic) dose for dogs?
For dogs, Imidacloprid (Systemic) is typically dosed as follows — Applied to skin between shoulder blades: 10 mg/kg Topical (spot-on) Monthly. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Imidacloprid (Systemic) dose for cats?
For cats, Imidacloprid (Systemic) is typically dosed as follows — Same application as dogs: 10 mg/kg Topical Monthly. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Imidacloprid (Systemic) need a prescription?
Yes. Imidacloprid (Systemic) is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
CDSCO approvals (India) — 3
Imidacloprid cutaneous solution
M/s Bayer India Limited · Approved 23.03.2001
prevention and treatment of flee infestation on dogs.
Imidacloprid 10% + Moxidectin 1.0% & 2.5% Topical solution vet
M/s Bayer polychem ltd thane · Approved 03.10.2009
For the treatment and prevention of flea infestations prevention of heartworm disease and treatment of infections with g
Imidacloprid+ Moxidectin spot on solution
M/s Bayer Pharma · Approved 05.04.2011
For the treatment and preivention of flea infestation treatment of ear mite infestation, prevention of heartworm disease
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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