One of the recent additions to the host of medicines used to address flea infestations in dogs is spinosad. This drug is classified as a spinosyns drug, which acts to kill adult fleas living on your dog's body. By eliminating the adult fleas, spinosad can dramatically reduce your pet's flea infestation. With repeated treatments using spinosad, you can ultimately eliminate the infestation entirely. This medicine is approved exclusively for use in dogs.
Spinosad Overview
Spinosad is known more commonly by the name of the brand name label drug called Comfortis. Comfortis is a unique medicine in the group of drugs that are designed for use against fleas. The primary reason that this medicine stands out in comparison with the alternatives of its type is that it is the first medicine to be approved by the FDA which is provided as a chewable, beef flavored tablet. If your pet suffers from fleas but is reluctant to ingest other types of flea medicines, or if you have a problem that precludes you from using other types of flea medicine and flea control as well.
This medicine is fast acting and can begin killing fleas within about half an hour of the time that your pet ingests it. Each dosage of spinosad is good for approximately one month as well, meaning that you won't have to bother with frequent administrations. As an added bonus of eliminating fleas, this medicine can also help to treat dermatitis caused by these parasites.
Using Spinosad for Your Pet
Spinosad comes in a variety of chewable tablet types. These tablets are split up according to size and are to be given depending upon your pet's total weight. Speak with your vet about which type of tablet will be best for your pet. These tablets are designed to be provided to your pet about once per month; most vets recommend selecting a particular day each month to give your pet the medicine, as this helps to keep the schedule for administration as regular as possible.
Spinosad is effective at eliminating fleas that are already on your pet's body, and it can also be used as a preventative control measure as well. By giving your pet a dose of this medicine about one month before the flea season begins, you can help to address his problem before it starts.
Side Effects and Risks of Spinosad
The most commonly noted side effects of spinosad include the following:
- Excessive salivation
- Changes in appetite
- Vomiting
- Redness of the skin
- Hyperactive behavior
- Lethargy
It's also possible that spinosad will react negatively with other medicines in your pet's body. Be sure to inform your vet of all other medical conditions that your pet suffers from, as well as any other medicines that may be in his system when you begin the treatment. Take your pet to the vet if you notice these side effects or any other signs that appear to indicate a negative reaction.