What Is Nexgard?
Nexgard is a chewable, oral tablet designed primarily for dogs to treat and safeguard against fleas and specific ticks. It is effective against pests like the American dog, black-legged, lone star, and brown dog ticks.
Additionally, Nexgard has seen off-label applications. "Off-label" implies the drug's usage in a manner or for creatures not explicitly stated on its packaging. This includes treatments for dogs' demodectic mange, sarcoptic mange, and ear mites. Veterinarians often utilize medications in off-label manners, but always consult with your vet to determine if Nexgard is the optimal choice for your pet.
Nexgard Manufacturer
Boehringer Ingelheim, a global pharmaceutical company, manufactures Nexgard. Always obtain pet medications from reputable sources and consult your veterinarian for any questions or concerns about the product.
Nexgard Chews Active Ingredient
Nexgard's active ingredient is Afoxolaner. It's this compound that helps in the treatment and prevention of flea and tick infestations in dogs. Always consult with a veterinarian for proper dosage and administration.
Nexgard Overview
Adhere to the guidelines on the medication label or as your vet recommends. This treatment is administered orally once a month to dogs that weigh at least 4 pounds and are eight weeks old or more mature. Nexgard can be provided with food or on its own. Provide another complete chew if your dog regurgitates the tablet within two hours after consumption.
How Nexgard Chews Works
Nexgard contains the principal component, afoxolaner, a member of the modern isoxazoline group aimed at flea and tick control. The mechanism of isoxazolines disrupts the nervous system of these pests, leading to their paralysis and subsequent demise.
Soon after giving Nexgard, it starts its action, targeting fleas on your furry friend. The dosage is determined by a dog's weight, underscoring the need for accurate product sizing. Regularly monitoring your dog's weight helps guarantee that you're providing the appropriate dosage size.
Nexgard Dosage For Dogs
Puppies under eight weeks should not take Nexgard because it isn't safe for them yet. After eight weeks and a consultation with your vet, you can start your dog on Nexgard.
Nexgard creates specific chewables for dogs according to their weights:
- Nexgard chews for very small dogs 4 - 10 lbs
- Nexgard chews for small dogs 10 - 24 lbs
- Nexgard chews for medium dogs 24 - 60 lbs
- Nexgard chews for large dogs 66 and 121 lbs
Larger dogs will require a combination of tablets for flea and tick prevention.
Side Effects Of Nexgard Chews
Most animals handle this medication smoothly, but some potential side effects are:
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Diarrhea
- Allergic reactions: hives or facial swelling
- Dry or itchy skin
- Vomiting
Some pets have exhibited neurologic issues related to this category of medications. If your dog has previously had seizures or other neurological conditions, keep your veterinarian informed. Neurological symptoms might encompass:
- Lack of coordination
- Muscle tremors
- Seizures
Missed A Dose?
Should you miss administering a Nexgard dose, provide it as soon as it comes to mind and then continue with the monthly regimen. Avoid giving additional or two-fold dosages. If there's been a significant gap since the previous dose, you might observe a fleeting presence of fleas during that interval.
The Bottom Line
"Bottom line" typically refers to the main or most important point in a discussion, argument, or writing. It's the essential conclusion or the key takeaway. If you're referring to the Nexgard discussion, the bottom line might be: "Nexgard, produced by Boehringer Ingelheim, is a trusted medication for flea and tick prevention in dogs. Always consult with a veterinarian for its proper use."