Fipronil

Common brand names

Single Ingredient

• Frontline for Dogs and Cats
• PetArmor for Dogs and Cats

Combined Ingredients

• Frontline Plus (with (S)-methoprene)
• PetArmor Plus (with (S)-methoprene)

Uses of Fipronil

Fipronil is a wide-spectrum ectoparasiticide used to treat fleas, lice, and ticks in cats and dogs. Ticks treatment will vary from region to region. 

For Cats: It is used to prevent and treat flea infections and control fleas allergy dermatitis, biting lice. 

For Dogs: It is used to prevent and treat flea infections, control ticks, and control flea allergy dermatitis, mites, sarcoptic mange, and biting lice.

When Fipronil is combined with (S)-methoprene, it can stop the development of fleas and ticks at the egg larvae and pupae stages.

Method of application

Fipronil is administered externally as a spot-on/topical solution or spray.

Dosage and administration

The dosage and administration of Fipronil-based products for pets depend on the specific product used and the pet's weight. Therefore, it's important to follow the instructions on the label and consult with a veterinarian before administering any flea and tick treatment to your pet.

For spot-on treatments, the product is typically applied to the back of the neck or at the base of the animal's skull. The dosage is determined by the weight of the pet and the concentration of Fipronil in the product. For example, a product containing 9.8% Fipronil may require a dosage of 0.29 ml for a 4 lb (1.8 kg) dog and 0.44 ml for a 10 lb (4.5 kg) dog.

For sprays and collars, the application method and dosage will vary depending on the product.

It's important to note that Fipronil-based products for pets should not be used on animals under eight weeks of age or that are sick or debilitated. Also, pets should be kept away from the treated area until dry.

It's also important to be aware of any potential side effects or allergic reactions in your pet after administering a Fipronil-based product and to contact a veterinarian immediately if any problems occur.

Possible side effects

Fipronil, like all pesticides, can cause side effects if not used properly. The most common side effects of fipronil-based products in pets include skin irritation at the application site, such as redness, itching, and hair loss. However, these side effects are usually mild and temporary.

Other possible side effects of Fipronil include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Seizures
• Tremors
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite

In rare cases, pets may have an allergic reaction to Fipronil, which can cause more severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, hives, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If your pet experiences any of these symptoms, contact a veterinarian immediately.

It's important to use fipronil-based products exactly as directed on the label and to avoid overdose or overuse, which can increase the risk of side effects. Also, you should avoid direct contact with the product and wash your hands thoroughly after handling it.

In case of accidental ingestion, immediately contact a veterinarian or a poison control center.

It is important to have a veterinarian check your pet if any of these symptoms occur and to consult your vet before using any flea and tick treatment on your pet, especially if your pet has any pre-existing health conditions or is taking any other medications.

Precautions

There are several precautions to consider when using Fipronil-based products for pets. These include:

• Always follow the instructions on the label. It is important to use the product exactly as directed and to avoid overdose or overuse, which can increase the risk of side effects.
• Keep the product out of reach of children and pets. Fipronil-based products can be toxic if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin, so it is important to store them safely and avoid direct contact with the product.
• Keep pets away from treated areas until the product is dry.
• Avoid using Fipronil-based products on animals under eight weeks of age or that are sick or debilitated.
• Consult your veterinarian before using any flea and tick treatment on your pet, especially if your pet has any pre-existing health conditions or is taking any other medications.
• Be aware of any potential side effects or allergic reactions in your pet after administering a Fipronil-based product, and contact a veterinarian immediately if any problems occur.
• Be careful when using Fipronil-based products around bees and other beneficial insects, as it can harm them.
• Do not use on pets that are intended for consumption.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the product.
• In case of accidental ingestion, immediately contact a veterinarian or a poison control center.

By following these precautions, you can help ensure the safe and effective use of Fipronil-based products for your pets.

Signs of toxicity

Signs of toxicity from Fipronil can vary depending on the amount and duration of exposure and the individual pet's sensitivity to the chemical. In general, signs of toxicity from Fipronil can include:

• Skin irritation at the application site, such as redness, itching, and hair loss.
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Seizures
• Tremors
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Neurological symptoms such as muscle tremors, convulsions, and agitation.
• Respiratory distress such as difficulty breathing, coughing, and nasal discharge.
• Changes in behavior such as depression, restlessness, or agitation.
• Loss of coordination and muscle control.

If you suspect your pet has been exposed to excessive Fipronil or is showing signs of toxicity, seek veterinary care immediately. The veterinarian may induce vomiting, administer activated charcoal, give fluids to prevent dehydration, or give medication to control seizures.

It's important to keep in mind that the symptoms of toxicity can vary depending on the animal and the amount of Fipronil consumed; thus, it's important to contact a veterinarian as soon as possible if you suspect your pet has been exposed to Fipronil.

Storage

Always store at room temperature (below 30°C/86°F.). Store in a dry place and the original package.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for general reference only and is not intended to replace the packaging label or veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian to ensure the supplied information applies to your pet. In addition, this page may not include all side effects, uses, brand names, or applications.