How Bravecto Works
Bravecto (fluralaner) is a systemic ectoparasiticide that works by blocking insect and arachnid nerve receptors (GABA-gated chloride channels and glutamate-gated chloride channels). After the chewable tablet is ingested, fluralaner is distributed through the bloodstream and reaches the skin tissue where it kills fleas and ticks on contact. A single dose provides 12 weeks of protection against fleas and most tick species.
Weight Bands and Pack Selection
Bravecto is sold in 5 fixed-weight-band packs. Always select the pack that covers your dog's current weight. Do not use a lower-weight pack for cost saving, as underdosing reduces effectiveness against ticks.
- 2 to 4.5 kg: 112.5 mg
- 4.5 to 10 kg: 250 mg
- 10 to 20 kg: 500 mg
- 20 to 40 kg: 1,000 mg
- 40 to 56 kg: 1,400 mg
- Over 56 kg: Combine two packs as needed to cover the dog's weight
Dosing Interval
Administer Bravecto once every 12 weeks (approximately 3 months). Year-round dosing is recommended for continuous flea and tick protection. Note: protection against Lone Star ticks (Amblyomma americanum) lasts only 8 weeks per dose, so owners in Lone Star tick regions should dose every 8 weeks if Lone Star tick exposure is a concern.
Species and Age Restrictions
Bravecto is approved for dogs 6 months of age and older and weighing at least 2 kg. It is not approved for puppies under 6 months. A separate Bravecto formulation exists for cats; dog formulations must not be used on cats. There is also a Bravecto topical spot-on formulation for dogs that cannot be given oral medications.
Safety Profile
Bravecto is generally well tolerated. The most commonly reported side effects in clinical trials were vomiting and decreased appetite, which were mild and transient. Neurological adverse events (tremors, ataxia, seizures) have been reported in rare cases. The FDA issued a warning in 2018 requiring a label update to note this rare risk. Use with caution and with veterinary guidance in dogs with a known seizure history.
Efficacy Against Tick Species
- Black-legged tick (deer tick, Ixodes scapularis): 12-week protection
- American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis): 12-week protection
- Brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus): 12-week protection
- Lone Star tick (Amblyomma americanum): 8-week protection