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Recent Flea/Tick Product News

Flea and Tick PreventionYou may have seen the recent FDA alert regarding certain flea and tick preventative products, including some we prescribe here at Packerland on a regular basis.  Products containing Isoxazoline including Bravecto, Nexgard and Simparica are the topic of the alert, but the information the alert contains is nothing new and is mainly in regards to more consistent labeling of neurologic precautions across all the brands in this class.  With over 80 million doses sold worldwide, the reported signs, which can include seizures, remain very rare - less than 1 per 10,000 doses.  The recommendation has always been to use these products with caution in dogs with a known history of seizures, which is typically where these neurologic-based adverse events occur.  We have always required regular examinations by our veterinarians with these (and any) prescription products to ensure that we are making the best individualized recommendations possible for each patient.

As the FDA indicated in their alert, they consider these products to be safe and effective for pets.  Additionally, fleas and ticks are more than just a nuisance.  They transmit disease and pose a serious health threat to both animals and humans alike.  It is critical to protect our pets from these diseases and we are confident in the safety profile and efficacy these medications provide.

Nothing is more important to us than the safety and wellbeing of our patients.  While medicine is always changing, we make it a priority to stay on top of any new and updated information on products we recommend.  While there are always potential side-effects to any medication, we are very comfortable with the use of these products and will continue to recommend and prescribe them to our patients, as appropriate.  If you have any questions or concerns about what preventative products your pet uses, please do not hesitate to contact us.