FDA approves longer-lasting feline preventive

Merck Animal Health announced today that the FDA has approved Bravecto Plus (fluralaner and moxidectin topical solution) for cats 6 months and older, which provides coverage for up to two months.

Available in the next couple of months, the topical solution will be the only product on the market to protect against this combination of parasites for the duration, according to the release. Bravecto Plus prevents heartworm disease caused by Dirofilaria immitis, treats infections with intestinal roundworm and kills 100% of fleas and more than 99.7% of ticks in the first 12 hours after application, according to a release.

Bravecto Plus contains fluralaner (280 mg/ml), an ectoparasiticide with systemic activity against ticks and fleas, as well as moxidectin (14 mg/ml), an endectocide with systemic activity against a range of external and internal parasites.

The most commonly reported adverse reactions for this product include vomiting, hair loss, itching, diarrhea, lethargy, dry skin, elevated ALT and hypersalivation. Neurologic adverse reactions have also been reported in cats receiving isooxazoline class drugs, even in cats without a history of neurologic disorders.

Bravecto (fluralaner topical solution) for dogs and cats has been available since 2016.