How does Bravecto flea and tick tablet work for dogs? - briefly
Bravecto flea and tick tablets contain fluralaner, an active ingredient that targets the nervous system of parasites. When ingested by a dog, the medication is absorbed into the bloodstream, where it effectively kills both adult fleas and ticks as well as preventing their larvae from developing for up to 12 weeks.
How does Bravecto flea and tick tablet work for dogs? - in detail
Bravecto flea and tick tablets for dogs are a revolutionary approach to parasite control, offering long-lasting protection against both fleas and ticks. The active ingredient in Bravecto is fluralaner, a potent insecticide and acaricide that belongs to the isoxazoline class of compounds. Here's how it works in detail:
Once ingested by the dog, fluralaner is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream through the gastrointestinal tract. It then distributes throughout the body, reaching high concentrations in the skin and fat tissues, which are favored habitats for fleas and ticks. The mechanism of action of fluralaner involves binding to specific receptors in the nervous system of the parasites, namely GABA-gated chloride channels and glutamate-gated chloride channels. This binding leads to an influx of chloride ions into the neurons, causing them to become hyperpolarized and unable to transmit signals. As a result, the parasites experience uncontrollable muscle spasms, leading to paralysis and subsequent death.
The unique feature of Bravecto is its prolonged activity. Fluralaner has a high affinity for these receptors, ensuring that it remains bound to them for an extended period. This long-lasting action provides continuous protection against fleas and ticks for up to 12 weeks after a single administration. During this time, any new flea or tick attempting to feed on the treated dog will be exposed to a lethal dose of fluralaner, effectively preventing infestations from establishing.
In addition to its direct action on parasites, Bravecto also disrupts the life cycle of fleas by killing flea larvae and eggs present in the environment. This added benefit helps to reduce the overall flea population and prevent re-infestation.
Bravecto's mode of action is highly selective, targeting the nervous system of parasites while having minimal impact on the dog's own nervous system. This specificity contributes to its excellent safety profile, making it a reliable choice for pet owners seeking effective and long-lasting protection against fleas and ticks.