Labels for 2 parasiticide products are expanded

The labels of 2 prescription parasiticides for canines have been expanded to include an emerging tick species. New indications for Credelio Quattro (lotilaner, moxidectin, praziquantel, and pyrantel chewable tablets) and Credelio (lotilaner), both from Elanco, also include the prevention of Lyme disease as a result of killing black-legged ticks.¹

Credelio was previously indicated for killing adult fleas, for the treatment and prevention of flea infestation, and for the treatment and control of infestations of lone star ticks, American dog ticks, black-legged ticks, and brown dog ticks. Credelio Quattro previously had the same indications as Credelio as well as prevention of heartworm disease and treatment of roundworm, tapeworm and hookworm infections.

“Our research and development teams are constantly working to anticipate and address emerging threats, ensuring and demonstrating that Credelio Quattro and Credelio continue to provide leading-edge protection for dogs against a complex and evolving parasitic landscape,” Ellen de Brabander, PhD, executive vice president, innovation and regulatory affairs for Elanco, said in a news release.¹

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Credelio Quattro and Credelio share a common active ingredient: lotilaner. In a study recently published in Parasites and Vectors, lotilaner demonstrated 100% efficacy against the longhorned tick following 48 hours of infestation and throughout the month. As a result, both parasiticides are now indicated for the treatment and control of longhorned tick infestations.¹

“The unique biology of the longhorned tick is what makes it a potential public health challenge,” Casey Locklear, DVM, veterinarian and parasiticide lead for Elanco Animal Health, said in the release.¹ “They can establish populations of thousands from a single female because they have the ability to reproduce without mates.”

Lotilaner has also been found to be highly effective for killing the black-legged tick, a vector for spreading Lyme Disease. The labels of both Credelio Quattro and Credelio now claim prevention of Lyme disease in dogs.¹

The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) reported 530,685 cases of Lyme disease in dogs in 2024 with 1 in 20 dogs testing positive for infection. These cases represented an increase in canine Lyme disease incidence from 2023. The CAPC reported 465,721 cases of dogs Lyme disease in 2023 with 1 in 30 dogs testing positive for infection.^2,3

“This expanded label for Credelio Quattro and Credelio is exciting for pet owners and veterinarians alike,” Bobby Modi, executive vice president, US pet health and digital transformation at Elanco, said in the release.¹ “Our expanded label demonstrates even more comprehensive protection against some of the most concerning ticks, going beyond for both pet owners and veterinarians and helping dogs live healthier, happier, more active lives.”

Year-round parasite protection is widely recommended by veterinarians to prevent infestation and pathogen infection. In an interview with dvm360, Locklear discussed the importance of communicating to clients the capability of parasiticides.⁴

“My general practitioner heart gravitates to preventing the preventable and making a strong medical recommendation so that I can help provide that canine patient with the best health possible, and really support the human animal bond,” Locklear said.⁴ “It's important for the veterinary team to remember and to convey to pet owners that they really are taking a proactive approach by providing that dog with a broad spectrum coverage, including…coverage on a monthly basis.”

References

1. Elanco announces expansion of Credelio Quattro (lotilaner, moxidectin, praziquantel, and pyrantel chewable tablets) and Credelio (lotilaner) labels, offering protection against Lyme disease and emerging tick species. News release. October 27, 2025. Accessed October 28, 2025. https://www.elanco.com/us/newsroom/press-releases/elanco-announces-expansion-credelio-quattro-credelio
2. Parasite prevalence maps. Tick borne disease agents, Lyme disease, dog, 2024. Companion Animal Parasite Council. Accessed October 28, 2025. https://capcvet.org/maps/#/2024/all-year/lyme-disease/dog/united-states
3. Parasite prevalence maps. Tick borne disease agents, Lyme disease, dog, 2023. Companion Animal Parasite Council. Accessed October 28, 2025. https://capcvet.org/maps/#/2023/all-year/lyme-disease/dog/united-states
4. Crossley KC, Locklear C. Communicating with clients about parasite protection. dvm360. March 2, 2025. Accessed October 28, 2025. https://www.dvm360.com/view/communicating-with-clients-about-parasite-protection