Simparica

Simparica is a prescription-only antiparasitic for dogs. The active ingredient is sarolaner – it belongs to the group of isoxazolines, making the preparation a monthly chewable tablet with quite rapid action. One dose provides protection for up to 35 days.

What does Simparica help against?

In short: against fleas and ticks. Both are annoying, neither is harmless.

• Fleas: Simparica kills existing fleas and keeps a new infestation under control for up to 35 days.
• Ticks: The preparation works against several tick species – including the castor bean tick (Ixodes ricinus), the brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus), the American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis) and the lone star tick (Amblyomma americanum). Here too, protection lasts for up to 35 days.

How does sarolaner work?

Sarolaner is both an insecticide and an acaricide. It blocks certain receptors in the nervous system of parasites, which overstimulates their nerves – and this ends fatally for the flea or tick. The special thing: sarolaner acts systemically. After ingestion, it enters the dog’s bloodstream and kills parasites as soon as they suck blood. The dog is, so to speak, its own protective barrier.

Dosage and application

Simparica is available in various strengths, matched to the dog’s body weight. Which strength is correct is determined by the vet – this is not a matter of discretion, but mandatory, as the product is prescription-only.

• Chewable tablets: Administer once every 30 days. The tablets are available in weight classes, so that the dosage fits as precisely as possible.

Possible side effects

Most dogs tolerate it well. However, in rare cases, the following reactions may occur:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Itching
• Skin rash
• Behavioural changes

If you observe unusual or severe reactions, do not wait – call the vet immediately.

What to look out for

A few points that are really important:

• Pregnant and lactating bitches: Sufficient safety data are lacking for this group. In case of doubt, avoid use and consult the vet.
• Puppies under 6 months and under 1.3 kg: Simparica is not suitable for these animals. A clear no.
• History of seizure disorders: If the dog has a history of epileptic seizures or similar conditions, this must definitely be discussed with the vet before administration.

As a general rule: Simparica is a medication, not a dietary supplement. Nothing happens here without a veterinary prescription.

What speaks in favour of Simparica?

• Long-lasting protection: A single tablet is sufficient for up to 35 days – this means significantly less treatment effort over the course of the year compared to products with a shorter duration of action.
• Rapid onset of action: Fleas are killed within 3 hours, ticks within 8 hours. Impressively quick for a monthly product.
• Uncomplicated administration: Chewable tablets have a clear practical advantage over spot-on solutions – no drying time, no parting of the fur, no fuss. Most dogs simply eat the tablet.