FDA approves chewable flea-tick preventive from Merck

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Bravecto (fluralaner), a chewable flea and tick preventive for dogs from Merck Animal Health, according to a company release. The product kills fleas-along with the black-legged tick, American dog tick and brown dog tick-for 12 weeks with a single dose. It is also effective against the lone star tick for eight weeks.

Fluralaner, the active ingredient, is a new ectoparasiticide that is part of the isoxazoline group. The preventive is administered as a flavored chew that dogs readily accept. Bravecto can also be used as part of treatment for controlling flea allergy dermatitis as it eliminates flea infestations, the release states. It will be available only through licensed veterinarians.

Bravecto is available to veterinarians to order now and will be available to pet owners by the end of June 2014. It has not been shown effective for 12 weeks’ duration in puppies less than 6 months of age. Common side effects in clinical trials included vomiting, decreased appetite, diarrhea, lethargy, polydipsia and flatulence.