NexGard: Uses, Benefits, And Side Effects Explained

Hey guys! Ever wondered what NexGard is all about? You're not alone! This chewable tablet is a game-changer when it comes to protecting our furry friends from fleas and ticks. In this article, we're diving deep into what NexGard is, what it's used for, its benefits, and even some potential side effects. So, buckle up and let's get started!

What is NexGard?

NexGard is a popular oral medication designed to protect dogs from fleas and ticks. The active ingredient in NexGard is afoxolaner, which belongs to the isoxazoline class of parasiticides. This means it's specifically formulated to kill external parasites, making it a lifesaver for our canine companions. Administered as a chewable tablet, NexGard is incredibly convenient for pet owners. Unlike topical treatments, there's no need to worry about messy applications or the product being washed off during baths or swimming. The chewable form is palatable, making it easy to give to even the pickiest of dogs. NexGard works by disrupting the nervous system of fleas and ticks, leading to their paralysis and death. Once ingested, afoxolaner is absorbed into the dog's bloodstream, providing systemic protection. When fleas and ticks bite a treated dog, they are exposed to the drug and quickly eliminated. This systemic action is crucial for preventing infestations and controlling existing ones. NexGard is effective against several common species of fleas and ticks, including the American dog tick, the black-legged tick (deer tick), the brown dog tick, and the lone star tick. This broad-spectrum protection ensures that dogs are shielded from a variety of tick-borne diseases, such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis. The medication is available in different dosages, tailored to the weight of the dog, ensuring accurate and safe administration. It is important to follow the veterinarian's instructions regarding dosage to avoid potential adverse effects. NexGard is generally administered monthly, providing continuous protection against fleas and ticks throughout the year. Consistent use is essential to maintain its effectiveness, especially in regions where these parasites are prevalent year-round. The safety and efficacy of NexGard have been extensively studied, making it a trusted option for veterinarians and pet owners alike. Its ease of use, broad-spectrum protection, and systemic action make it a standout choice in the realm of flea and tick prevention.

What is NexGard Used For?

So, what exactly does NexGard do? Primarily, it's used for flea and tick control in dogs. This means it both prevents infestations and treats existing ones. Here's a more detailed look:

• Flea Infestations: NexGard is highly effective at killing adult fleas. It works quickly, often eliminating fleas within 24 hours of administration. This rapid action helps to alleviate the itching and discomfort associated with flea bites, improving the dog's quality of life. Furthermore, by killing fleas, NexGard helps to prevent flea allergy dermatitis (FAD), a common skin condition in dogs caused by an allergic reaction to flea saliva. Consistent use of NexGard can significantly reduce the risk of FAD and the associated symptoms, such as intense itching, redness, and hair loss. Additionally, controlling flea populations is crucial for preventing the transmission of tapeworms. Fleas can carry tapeworm larvae, and when a dog ingests an infected flea (usually during grooming), it can become infected with tapeworms. By eliminating fleas, NexGard helps to break this cycle and protect dogs from tapeworm infestations.
• Tick Infestations: NexGard is also effective against several types of ticks, including the American dog tick, black-legged tick (deer tick), brown dog tick, and lone star tick. These ticks can transmit various diseases to dogs, such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis. By killing these ticks, NexGard helps to prevent the transmission of these diseases, protecting dogs from serious health complications. The black-legged tick, for example, is a primary carrier of Lyme disease, while the lone star tick can transmit ehrlichiosis. Consistent use of NexGard is particularly important in regions where these ticks are prevalent, providing continuous protection against tick-borne diseases. The medication's ability to kill ticks quickly also reduces the likelihood of disease transmission. Ticks typically need to be attached to a host for several hours to transmit pathogens, so the rapid action of NexGard is crucial for preventing infection.
• Prevention of Tick-Borne Diseases: As mentioned, NexGard aids in preventing diseases like Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis. These diseases can have serious and long-lasting effects on a dog's health, including joint pain, fever, and organ damage. Using NexGard as a preventative measure is a proactive way to safeguard your dog's well-being. Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, can lead to chronic arthritis and kidney problems if left untreated. Ehrlichiosis, transmitted by the brown dog tick and lone star tick, can cause fever, lethargy, and anemia. Anaplasmosis, also transmitted by ticks, can result in similar symptoms. By preventing tick infestations, NexGard reduces the risk of exposure to these pathogens, helping to keep dogs healthy and active. Regular veterinary check-ups and tick prevention strategies are essential components of responsible pet ownership, and NexGard plays a vital role in this comprehensive approach.

Benefits of Using NexGard

Why should you choose NexGard for your furry friend? Here are some key benefits:

• Easy to Administer: NexGard comes in a chewable tablet form, making it super easy to give to your dog. Most dogs readily accept it as a treat, eliminating the struggle often associated with other medications. This ease of administration is a significant advantage for pet owners who have difficulty giving pills or applying topical treatments. The palatable flavor of the chewable tablet encourages dogs to consume it willingly, ensuring they receive the full dose. This is particularly beneficial for dogs that are resistant to taking medication, as it reduces stress for both the pet and the owner. Additionally, the chewable form eliminates the risk of the medication being rubbed off or washed away, as can happen with topical treatments. This ensures consistent and reliable protection against fleas and ticks throughout the month.
• Monthly Dosage: Just one dose a month keeps fleas and ticks at bay. This convenient dosing schedule makes it easy to remember and maintain consistent protection for your dog. Monthly dosing simplifies the flea and tick prevention routine, allowing pet owners to easily incorporate it into their pet care schedule. This consistent protection is crucial for preventing infestations and the transmission of tick-borne diseases. By administering NexGard on a regular basis, pet owners can ensure their dogs are continuously protected from fleas and ticks, regardless of the season. This is particularly important in regions where these parasites are prevalent year-round. The convenience of monthly dosing also reduces the risk of missed doses, which can compromise the effectiveness of the treatment. Consistent use of NexGard provides peace of mind, knowing that your dog is protected from the discomfort and health risks associated with flea and tick infestations.
• Systemic Protection: Unlike topical treatments, NexGard works from the inside out. The active ingredient, afoxolaner, is absorbed into the bloodstream, providing protection throughout the entire body. This systemic action ensures that fleas and ticks are killed when they bite the dog, regardless of where they are on the body. This is a significant advantage over topical treatments, which may only provide localized protection. Systemic protection also eliminates the risk of the medication being washed off during bathing or swimming, ensuring consistent effectiveness. The even distribution of afoxolaner throughout the body ensures that fleas and ticks are exposed to the drug, leading to their rapid elimination. This comprehensive protection is particularly important for dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors or in areas where fleas and ticks are prevalent. By working from the inside out, NexGard provides reliable and consistent protection, safeguarding your dog's health and well-being.
• Broad-Spectrum Efficacy: NexGard is effective against multiple species of fleas and ticks, providing comprehensive protection against a wide range of parasites. This broad-spectrum efficacy simplifies the flea and tick prevention strategy, as it eliminates the need for multiple products. The medication's ability to kill various species of fleas and ticks ensures that dogs are protected from a variety of parasites and the diseases they transmit. This is particularly important in regions where different species of fleas and ticks are prevalent. By providing broad-spectrum protection, NexGard offers peace of mind, knowing that your dog is protected from a wide range of potential threats. This comprehensive approach to flea and tick prevention simplifies pet care and reduces the risk of infestation and disease.

Potential Side Effects

Like all medications, NexGard can have potential side effects. While most dogs tolerate it well, it's important to be aware of the possibilities. Common side effects can include:

• Vomiting: Some dogs may experience vomiting after taking NexGard. This is usually mild and resolves on its own, but if it persists or is severe, consult your veterinarian. Vomiting can occur as a result of the dog's digestive system reacting to the medication. It is important to monitor your dog after administering NexGard and to report any persistent vomiting to your veterinarian. In some cases, the veterinarian may recommend administering NexGard with food to help reduce the likelihood of vomiting. It is also important to ensure that the dog is properly hydrated if vomiting occurs. If vomiting is accompanied by other symptoms, such as lethargy or loss of appetite, it is crucial to seek veterinary attention promptly.
• Dry or Flaky Skin: Afoxolaner can sometimes cause mild skin irritation in certain animals, leading to dry skin. Ensure to apply a skin moisturizer designed for pets to prevent any discomfort. While dry or flaky skin is not a common side effect, it can occur in sensitive individuals. Regularly grooming your dog and using a pet-safe shampoo can help to maintain healthy skin and coat. If the skin irritation persists or worsens, consult your veterinarian for further evaluation and treatment. They may recommend a specific type of shampoo or topical treatment to alleviate the symptoms.
• Lethargy: A few dogs might seem tired or less active after taking NexGard. If lethargy persists for more than 24 hours, it's best to check with your vet. Lethargy can be a sign that the dog is experiencing an adverse reaction to the medication. It is important to monitor your dog's activity level after administering NexGard and to report any prolonged lethargy to your veterinarian. In some cases, lethargy may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as loss of appetite or fever, which can indicate a more serious underlying issue. Your veterinarian can perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of the lethargy and recommend appropriate treatment.
• Loss of Appetite: Some dogs may experience a temporary decrease in appetite after taking NexGard. Encourage your dog to eat by offering their favorite food or a small amount of wet food. If the loss of appetite persists for more than 24 hours, consult your veterinarian. A decrease in appetite can be a sign that the dog is experiencing nausea or discomfort. It is important to ensure that the dog is still drinking water to prevent dehydration. If the loss of appetite is accompanied by other symptoms, such as vomiting or diarrhea, it is crucial to seek veterinary attention promptly.

Important Note: In rare cases, neurologic signs such as seizures have been reported in dogs receiving NexGard. If your dog has a history of seizures, discuss this with your veterinarian before starting NexGard. It's always best to err on the side of caution. While neurologic signs are rare, they can be a serious concern. If your dog experiences seizures or any other neurologic symptoms after taking NexGard, seek veterinary attention immediately. Your veterinarian can perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of the symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment. It is also important to report any adverse reactions to the manufacturer of NexGard and to the regulatory authorities.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! NexGard is a powerful tool in the fight against fleas and ticks. Its ease of use, broad-spectrum protection, and systemic action make it a popular choice for dog owners. However, it's essential to be aware of potential side effects and consult with your veterinarian to ensure it's the right choice for your furry friend. After all, keeping our pets healthy and happy is always the top priority! If you have any concerns or questions, don't hesitate to reach out to your vet. They can provide personalized advice and guidance based on your dog's specific needs. Thanks for reading, and here’s to happy, healthy, and pest-free pups!