Afoxolaner is an antiparasitic agent used primarily in veterinary medicine to prevent and control flea and tick infestations in dogs. It is one of the newer class of ectoparasiticides known as isoxazolines, which are known for their efficacy in controlling external parasites that can infest pets.
1.Uses of Afoxolaner in Animals:
Flea Control: Afoxolaner is highly effective in killing adult fleas before they lay eggs, thus preventing flea infestations. It starts killing fleas within hours of administration and has a lasting effect that helps break the flea life cycle.
Tick Control: It is also effective against various species of ticks, helping to reduce the risk of tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease, Ehrlichiosis, and Anaplasmosis. Afoxolaner kills ticks on dogs, providing a month-long protection after a single dose.
Sarcoptic Mange: In some cases, afoxolaner is used to treat and control sarcoptic mange, which is caused by mites infesting the skin of dogs.
2.Mechanism of Action：
Neurotoxin for Parasites: Afoxolaner works by interfering with the nervous system of insects and acarines through its action on gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) gated chloride channels. It increases the influx of chloride ions into the nerve cells, leading to hyperexcitation of the parasitic nervous system, paralysis, and death.
3.Administration and Dosage：
Oral Administration: Afoxolaner is available in the form of chewable tablets, which are palatable to most dogs, making administration easy and stress-free. It's typically given once a month to maintain effective control of fleas and ticks.
Dosage: The dosage of afoxolaner depends on the weight of the dog. It's important that dogs are weighed before treatment to ensure they receive the correct dosage for their weight class to maximize efficacy and minimize the risk of side effects.
4.Safety and Side Effects：
Well-Tolerated: Afoxolaner is generally well-tolerated by most dogs. However, like all medications, it can have side effects. The most commonly reported side effects are mild and include symptoms such as vomiting, itching, diarrhea, lethargy, and lack of appetite.
Not for Use in Cats: It's important to note that afoxolaner is currently approved only for use in dogs and should not be used in cats.
5.Precautions：
Age Limit: Afoxolaner is approved for use in puppies 8 weeks of age and older, weighing at least 4 pounds.
Medical History Consideration: Dogs with a history of seizure disorders should be given afoxolaner under the guidance of a veterinarian, as the isoxazoline class has been associated with neurologic adverse effects, including tremors, ataxia, and seizures.
Afoxolaner provides a convenient and effective way to protect dogs from parasites that can cause a host of health problems. Its once-a-month dosing schedule helps simplify pet care, ensuring continuous protection against fleas and ticks. Always consult a veterinarian for the most appropriate parasite control measures for your pets.