What is NexGard Spectra? Broad-Spectrum Protection Against Internal and External Parasites in Dogs

1. What is NexGard Spectra?

NexGard Spectra is a modern antiparasitic product in chewable tablet form that protects dogs against both internal and external parasites . Its active ingredients are Afoxolaner and Milbemycin Oxime . These two ingredients combine to provide comprehensive protection against fleas , ticks , heartworms, intestinal worms, and mites.

Unlike traditional drop formulations, NexGard Spectra is administered orally . The tablet is meat-flavored for dogs to enjoy. This prevents stress or resistance during administration.

Afoxolaner , a compound belonging to the isoxazoline class, kills fleas and ticks by acting on their nervous systems. It blocks GABA and glutamate chloride channels in the parasite's nerve cells, leading to uncontrolled neuronal activity and paralysis.

Milbemycin Oxime , on the other hand, is from the macrocyclic lactone group and is effective against internal parasites (e.g., Toxocara canis , Ancylostoma caninum , Trichuris vulpis , Dirofilaria immitis ). It disrupts the neuromuscular communication of the parasites, causing their death.

The key advantage of NexGard Spectra is that it protects against all major parasite types with a single dose, eliminating the need to administer separate medications for both flea and tick infections and intestinal parasites.

It begins killing fleas within 24 hours of application, reaches maximum effect on ticks within 48 hours, and provides protection for one month. It also actively acts in the systemic circulation against internal parasites.

Therefore, NexGard Spectra is considered one of the essential components of a year-round protection protocol for dogs .

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2. NexGard Spectra Active Ingredient and Mechanism of Action

The pharmacological power of NexGard Spectra comes from the complementary effects of two active ingredients:

Afoxolaner (2.7 mg/kg dose)

• It is an isoxazoline derivative compound and is effective on ectoparasites (fleas, ticks, scabies mites).

• It inhibits GABA-dependent and glutamate-dependent chloride channels in the nervous system of parasites.

• This effect causes the parasite to lose motor control and die within a few hours.

• Afoxolaner reaches maximum plasma concentrations within 24–48 hours after absorption into the bloodstream.

• It provides continuous protection for up to 30 days by being stored in subcutaneous fat tissues.

Milbemycin Oxime (0.5 mg/kg dose)

• It is effective on endoparasites (intestinal worms and heartworms).

• It disrupts the neuromuscular transmission of the parasite and causes neuromuscular blockade.

• It is effective against species such as Toxocara canis , Ancylostoma caninum , Trichuris vulpis and Dirofilaria immitis .

• It also has a preventive effect on microfilariae (larval stage of heartworm).

The combination of these two substances simultaneously breaks the life cycle of both external and internal parasites. Afoxolaner kills fleas and ticks, while Milbemycin eliminates internal parasites and prevents reinfestation.

From a pharmacodynamic perspective, this combination in dogs:

• Prevention of flea allergy dermatitis (FAD),

• Reducing the risk of transmission of tick-borne diseases (e.g. Ehrlichia canis , Babesia canis ),

• Preventing heartworm infection,

• It provides versatile protection such as controlling intestinal worms.

Pharmacokinetic Properties:

• Afoxolaner: Bioavailability after oral administration is over 70%.

• Milbemycin: Absorption rate is around 80%, plasma half-life is about 3 days.

• Both substances are metabolized in the liver and excreted through urine and feces.

In conclusion, NexGard Spectra is one of the most effective oral antiparasitics developed for dogs, providing broad-spectrum protection in a single dose with its modern isoxazoline + macrocyclic lactone combination.

3. NexGard Spectra Usage Areas (Indications)

NexGard Spectra is a full-spectrum antiparasitic medication effective against both ectoparasites (fleas, ticks, and mites) and endoparasites (intestinal worms and heartworm larvae) in dogs. It is indicated for use in the following conditions:

a) Treatment and Prevention of Flea and Tick Infestations

• It targets tick species such as Ctenocephalides felis (fleas) and Rhipicephalus sanguineus , Ixodes ricinus , killing them within 24–48 hours.

• It completely breaks the life cycle of flea eggs and larvae by preventing their development.

• Significantly reduces the possibility of transmitting tick-borne infections (Ehrlichiosis, Babesiosis, Lyme disease).

b) Intestinal Worms and Internal Parasite Control

• It is effective against Toxocara canis (pinworm), Ancylostoma caninum (hookworm), Trichuris vulpis (whipworm) and Dirofilaria immitis (heartworm) larvae.

• Milbemycin Oxime disrupts the neuromuscular activity of parasites, causing their death and preventing reinfection.

• It is important in preventing symptoms such as diarrhea, weight loss and abdominal distension caused by internal parasites in puppies.

c) Scabies and Mites Infestations

• Thanks to its active ingredient Afoxolaner, it is effective against skin mites such as Sarcoptes scabiei and Demodex canis .

• In the treatment of demodicosis, as a result of regular monthly use, the parasite load can be reduced and the lesions can heal completely.

d) Heartworm Prophylaxis

• It prevents the disease from occurring by killing heartworm ( Dirofilaria immitis ) larvae (L3 and L4 stages).

• Thanks to this feature, it is indispensable especially in mosquito-intensive regions such as the Mediterranean and Aegean regions.

e) Mixed Parasite Infestations

When multiple parasites are present simultaneously (a combination of nematodes and ectoparasites), NexGard Spectra addresses the entire problem with a single product. This feature increases owner compliance and reduces treatment costs.

Conclusion: NexGard Spectra is defined as a “complete protection standard drug” because it is effective against all parasite species in dogs with a single dose and minimizes the risk of clinical infection with regular use.

4. NexGard Spectra Interference Cycle or Usage Requirement

Parasites exist not only in visible forms but also in the dog's body and the environment as invisible eggs, larvae, and microscopic stages. Therefore, prevention doesn't end with simply killing existing parasites; it's essential to completely interrupt their life cycle .

a) Flea Life Cycle

• Only 5% of fleas are on the dog; the remaining 95% are found in the form of eggs and larvae in the house, on carpets and furniture.

• Afoxolaner kills fleas in the blood-sucking stage and eliminates their ability to lay eggs.

• Regular monthly use eliminates all developmental stages of fleas.

b) Tick Life Cycle

• Ticks consist of four stages: egg, larva, nymph and adult.

• In nature, the larva hatches from the egg and attaches itself to the dog walking on the grass and sucks blood.

• NexGard Spectra kills ticks before they can suck blood after attaching to a dog, thus preventing the risk of disease transmission.

c) Internal Parasite Cycle

• Nematodes such as pinworms and hookworms are spread throughout the environment in egg or larval form.

• In puppies, transmission occurs through the placenta or milk.

• Milbemycin Oxime inactivates both adult and developing larvae.

• It has a prophylactic effect against heartworm larvae (L3–L4), preventing the disease in its early stages.

d) Necessity of Use

• Parasitic infestations can affect a dog's skin, coat, intestines, blood, and nervous system.

• In chronic cases, it causes permanent problems such as anemia, protein loss, dermatitis, diarrhea and weight loss.

• Some parasites are zoonotic (e.g. Toxocara canis ), meaning they can be transmitted to humans.

• Monthly use of NexGard Spectra protects the health of both the dog and family members.

Regular use is essential year-round, especially in parasite-prone climates like Turkey. Preventive and continuous use , rather than a single treatment, is the most effective approach.

5. NexGard Spectra Application Method (Step by Step)

NexGard Spectra is an antiparasitic medication administered orally in chewable tablet form. The administration process is relatively simple; however, improper administration may reduce effectiveness or delay plasma absorption of the medication. The following steps should be followed for proper administration:

Step 1 – Dose Selection

• NexGard Spectra is produced in different tablet sizes according to the dog's body weight :

  • 2–3.5 kg, 3.6–7.5 kg, 7.6–15 kg, 15.1–30 kg and 30.1–60 kg.

• For each dog, only the tablet appropriate for its weight range should be selected.

• Incorrect dosing (especially in underweight dogs) may cause toxicity; therefore, weight verification is essential.

Step 2 – Application Time and Frequency

• The tablet should be given once a month , preferably on the same day (e.g. 1st of each month).

• It can be applied all year round, depending on the density of fleas and ticks.

• In regions with a high risk of heartworms (Mediterranean, Aegean, Southeastern), regular protection is required regardless of the season .

Step 3 – How to Give

• Because the tablet is meat-flavored, it is eaten voluntarily by most dogs.

• If the dog has difficulty eating the tablet, the tablet can be given with the meal or mixed into the food.

• Even if the drug is swallowed without chewing, its effectiveness does not change because the active substance is easily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.

Step 4 – Post-Swallow Observation

• After administration, care should be taken to ensure that the dog swallows the entire tablet within 1–2 hours.

• If vomiting or regurgitation occurs, a new dose may be repeated within 12 hours.

• There is no need to give extra water or food to digest the medicine.

Step 5 – Regular Follow-up

• The protective effect of NexGard Spectra lasts for 30 days.

• Regular monthly use breaks the biological cycle of parasites and prevents re-infestation.

• Your veterinarian can tailor a seasonal schedule based on your dog's lifestyle and geographic location.

6. Preparation Before NexGard Spectra Application

Preparations made before administration increase both the effectiveness and safety of the medication. The following checks must be performed before administration:

a) General Health Check

• If the dog has symptoms such as fever, weakness, vomiting or diarrhea, medication should not be given.

• NexGard Spectra should only be administered to completely healthy dogs .

• A veterinary examination is recommended before the first dose, especially for puppies.

b) Weight Verification

• Since the tablet dose is calculated per kilogram, the dog should be weighed again if more than 1 month has passed since the last weight measurement.

• In rapidly growing puppies, changes in weight may cause dose differences in a short time.

c) Application on an empty stomach or on a full stomach

• NexGard Spectra is more absorbed when administered on a full stomach .

• The tablet can be given with a small amount of food or immediately after a meal.

• If administered on an empty stomach, the absorption rate may decrease, but it does not pose a safety risk.

d) Interaction Control with Other Drugs

• Milbemycin Oxime may exhibit pharmacokinetic interactions with some macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin).

• If another antiparasitic drug (e.g. ivermectin injection) is to be administered at the same time, veterinary approval must be obtained.

• Possible metabolic interactions should be considered in dogs receiving corticosteroids, antiepileptics or NSAIDs.

e) Allergy and Past Reaction Evaluation

• Caution should be exercised in dogs with a history of hypersensitivity (skin rash, tremors) to isoxazoline group drugs.

• In doubtful cases, the veterinarian may recommend a test dose or alternative product.

f) Determination of Internal Parasite Density

• Internal parasite load should be measured by performing a fecal examination, especially in puppies and dogs living outdoors.

• If excessive density is detected, re-evaluation can be made within 2 weeks after the first application.

g) Preparation for the Dog Owner

• After application, the dog should be observed for 1–2 hours.

• A spare tablet should be kept ready in case the dog spits out or vomits the tablet.

• Half or a quarter of the tablet should never be given to other animals.

These preparatory steps ensure the safe use and maximum bioavailability of NexGard Spectra. When applied under the right conditions, complete parasite removal is possible for both the dog and its environment.

7. NexGard Spectra Application Frequency and Protection Duration

The protective effect of NexGard Spectra lasts approximately 30 days with a single dose. Therefore, it should be administered regularly once a month, depending on the dog's parasite density and living environment.

a) Standard Protection Period

• One tablet should be given every 30 days.

• The application schedule should be kept fixed (e.g. 1st of each month) and should not be disrupted.

• In areas where the risk of heartworm is high, uninterrupted use throughout the year is mandatory.

b) Scope of Protection and Duration of Effect

Parasite Type	Event Duration	Mechanism of Action
Flea (Ctenocephalides felis)	30 days	It kills the parasite while sucking blood and prevents it from laying eggs.
Tick (Rhipicephalus, Ixodes)	30 days	It kills by contact and prevents contamination before blood sucking.
Heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis)	30 days	Kills L3–L4 larval stages, preventing disease.
Intestinal Worms (Nematodes, Cestodes)	30 days	It creates a nerve-muscle blockade, causing death and excretion.
Mites (Demodex, Sarcoptes)	30–45 days	It creates a paralyzing effect on the nervous system.

c) Difference Between Treatment and Prophylaxis

• Therapeutic use: In existing parasitic infestations, the second tablet should be given 30 days after the first dose.

• Preventive use: One dose per month is sufficient, regardless of seasonal density differences.

d) Application in Puppies and Old Dogs

• For puppies: It can be used safely in any dog over 8 weeks old and weighing over 2 kg.

• In older dogs : If liver and kidney functions are normal, standard doses can be applied.

e) Missed Dose Status

If a dose is missed, a new tablet should be given as soon as possible and the schedule should be set back to 30 days later. Irregular administration may cause the parasite cycle to start again.

8. NexGard Spectra Difference from Other Similar Products

NexGard Spectra distinguishes itself from other antiparasitic tablets on the market with its active ingredient combination, area of effect and formulation quality. The table below shows its comparison with its main competitors, Simparica Trio and Credelio Plus:

Criterion	NexGard Spectra	Simparica Trio	Credelio Plus
Active Ingredients	Afoxolaner + Milbemycin Oxime	Sarolaner + Moxidectin + Pyrantel	Lotilaner + Milbemycin Oxime
Area of Influence	Fleas, ticks, heartworms, intestinal worms, mites	Fleas, ticks, heartworms, intestinal worms	Fleas, ticks, heartworms, intestinal worms
Formula	Meat flavored chewable tablet	Meat flavored tablet	Meat flavored tablet
Tick Killing Rate	24–48 hours	24 hours	36 hours
Flea Activity	Complete death effect in 24 hours	12–24 hours	24 hours
Internal Parasite Coverage	All nematode and heartworm stages	Nematodes and heartworms	Nematodes and hookworms
Mite Effect	Yes (Demodex and Sarcoptes)**	Partially effective	Weak
Age of Use	8 weeks + (≥ 2 kg)	8 weeks + (≥ 1.25 kg)	8 weeks + (≥ 2 kg)
Effect Duration	30 days	30 days	30 days
Margin of Safety	Wide – high dose tolerance	Wide	Middle
Extra Advantage	Effective against scabies mites	Focused on heartworm prevention	Affordable alternative

General Evaluation

NexGard Spectra distinguishes itself from its peers by being the only oral formula specifically effective against mites. It is also considered the "gold standard" in veterinary clinics because it provides full-spectrum protection against fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal parasites in a single tablet.

9. Things to Consider When Using NexGard Spectra (Security)

NexGard Spectra has a wide safety margin in dogs; however, like any antiparasitic medication, it can pose risks if used inappropriately. The following safety guidelines are important both to maintain the effectiveness of the medication and to prevent potential side effects.

a) Type and Age Compatibility

• NexGard Spectra should only be used in dogs .

• It is never used in cats or other species.

• It should not be applied to puppies under 8 weeks of age or weighing less than 2 kg.

b) Caution Against Overdose Risk

• Each dog should be given a single tablet .

• Dividing the same tablet to different dogs or giving more than one tablet to a dog can lead to serious overdose.

• Afoxolaner overdose may cause seizures (convulsions), while Milbemycin may cause muscle twitching and increased salivation.

c) Caution in Dogs with Neurological Problems

• Isoxazoline class compounds (Afoxolaner) may lower the seizure threshold in dogs with an occasional seizure history.

• It should not be used in dogs with a history of epilepsy without veterinary advice.

• In such patients, the veterinarian can create an alternative treatment plan by making a risk-benefit assessment.

d) History of Allergic Reaction

• Caution should be exercised in dogs that have previously exhibited allergic reactions to isoxazoline or macrocyclic lactone group drugs (e.g. ivermectin, selamectin).

• If early signs such as itching, skin rash, tremors or excessive drooling are observed, the medication should be discontinued immediately and a veterinarian should be contacted.

e) Use in Pregnant or Nursing Dogs

• According to manufacturer tests, it is safe for pregnant and lactating dogs, but use during the first trimester should only be done with veterinary approval.

• In breastfeeding mothers, the active ingredients may pass into milk at low levels, so newborn babies should be observed.

f) Drug Interactions

• NexGard Spectra is metabolized via the CYP450 enzyme system .

• Therefore, it may interact with some drugs that pass through the liver (e.g., ketoconazole, cyclosporine, phenobarbital).

• If these drugs are used during the same period, the veterinarian should be informed.

g) Human Security

• It should not be consumed by humans.

• Hands should be washed after application and kept out of reach of children.

• If the person who splits the tablets comes into contact with them with bare hands, they should wash their hands with soap and water.

h) Environmental Safety

• Unused or expired tablets should not be thrown away; they should be delivered to pharmacy or clinic waste bins.

• Since the active ingredients are toxic to aquatic life, they should not be disposed of in the sewer.

10. NexGard Spectra Side Effects and Possible Reactions

NexGard Spectra has been proven to have a high safety profile in clinical studies. However, some dogs may experience transient and mild side effects after administration. These effects generally disappear spontaneously within 12–48 hours.

a) Most Common Mild Side Effects

• Temporary loss of appetite: Short-term refusal to eat may occur after taking the tablet.

• Mild vomiting or increased salivation: May be observed in dogs with digestive system sensitivities.

• Drowsiness or weakness: This may last for 1–2 days, especially after the first dose.

• Itching or hair loss : These are rare local reactions.

These symptoms are usually mild and do not require intervention. The dog's general condition usually returns to normal.

b) Rare Reactions

• Tremors or muscle twitching: This may be observed especially in dogs with a history of epilepsy.

• In case of overdose or hypersensitivity, transient neurological effects may occur.

• Vomiting and diarrhea: Usually occur as a result of incorrect dosage or administration on an empty stomach.

c) Hypersensitivity (Allergic) Reactions

• If symptoms such as facial swelling, redness around the eyes, difficulty breathing or excessive itching are observed, immediate veterinary attention is required.

• Symptoms can be quickly controlled with antihistamine or corticosteroid treatment.

d) Safety in Long-Term Use

• No toxic accumulation has been reported with regular use for 6 months or more.

• Afoxolaner and Milbemycin are completely metabolized in the body and do not accumulate.

• No significant increase in liver enzyme values was observed.

e) Steps to Follow in Case of Side Effects

1. The dog should be kept under veterinary supervision.

2. If symptoms are mild, supportive care (water, rest) is sufficient.

3. In severe reactions, intravenous fluids and symptomatic treatment may be administered by the veterinarian.

4. Re-administration of the same medication should only be done with the decision of the veterinarian.

f) Reporting of Side Effects

Veterinary clinics and owners should report any serious adverse reactions observed to the Boehringer Ingelheim pharmacovigilance unit or the local competent authority. These reports contribute to the continuous improvement of the global safety profile of the drug.

Conclusion: NexGard Spectra is highly safe for dogs and has few side effects when used at recommended doses. Mild reactions are transient, and serious reactions are extremely rare.

11. NexGard Spectra Use in Young, Pregnant and Lactating Animals

NexGard Spectra has been shown to have a high safety profile in puppies, pregnant, and lactating dogs based on safety testing and field studies. However, due to pharmacokinetic changes and metabolic rate differences during these physiological periods, administration should always be undertaken with caution.

a) Use in Puppies

• NexGard Spectra can be used safely in puppies over 8 weeks of age and weighing over 2 kg .

• Since the digestive system and liver metabolism are not yet fully developed in puppies, the dose must be determined according to weight.

• During this period, parasite load is usually high; infestations of Toxocara canis and Ancylostoma caninum, which are transmitted through milk, are particularly common.

• NexGard Spectra effectively eliminates these parasites and also prevents flea-related re-infestation.

• Puppies may experience decreased energy or a slight loss of appetite after administration; this usually resolves spontaneously within 12–24 hours.

Regular monthly use in puppies is extremely important in supporting the immune system during the development period.

b) Use in Pregnant Dogs

• Studies conducted by the manufacturer, Boehringer Ingelheim, have shown that NexGard Spectra is safe during pregnancy .

• No adverse effects on fetal development, birth rate, or puppies' health have been reported in pregnant dogs.

• However, veterinary approval must be obtained before performing the procedure in the first 3 weeks of pregnancy (implantation period) .

• In areas with high parasite pressure (e.g., rural areas with high tick density), discontinuation of the drug may result in a decrease in maternal hemoglobin level and parasite-induced anemia.

• Therefore, it should be applied under veterinary supervision, after a risk-benefit assessment.

c) Use in Nursing Dogs

• The active ingredients of NexGard Spectra (Afoxolaner and Milbemycin Oxime) pass into milk at very low rates.

• Clinical tests did not show toxicity or developmental disorders in nursing mothers or offspring.

• However, if newborn puppies are less than 2 weeks old, medication should be administered 1-2 hours apart, not immediately after breastfeeding .

• Mother's parasite control during the nursing process reduces the risk of puppies contracting fleas or intestinal parasites.

Conclusion: NexGard Spectra is generally considered safe for use in puppies, pregnant and lactating dogs; however, veterinary clinical judgment is essential in all cases.

12. Situations Requiring Veterinary Approval for NexGard Spectra

NexGard Spectra is generally available by prescription, but veterinary approval is required for certain specific clinical and physiological situations. These are detailed below:

a) Dogs with Neurological Problems

• Caution should be exercised in dogs with a history of epilepsy, tremors, seizures, or nervous system damage.

• Isoxazoline compounds (Afoxolaner) may lower the seizure threshold; therefore, dosage evaluation should be carried out under veterinary supervision.

b) Liver or Kidney Failure

• NexGard Spectra is metabolized via the liver enzyme system (CYP450).

• If these organs are dysfunctional, the risk of drug accumulation and toxicity may increase.

• In dogs with elevated AST, ALT and creatinine levels, blood tests should be performed before administration.

c) Extremely Weak or Chronically Ill Dogs

• Deworming should be postponed in dogs with suppressed immune systems, chronic diarrhea, or protein wasting syndrome.

• In such patients, the priority is to support general health; antiparasitic drugs should be given after recovery.

d) Dogs at Risk of Drug Interaction

• Veterinary supervision is required when used with cardiac or neurological drugs (e.g., phenobarbital, ivermectin, cyclosporine).

• These drugs may affect the plasma levels of NexGard Spectra.

e) Allergy or Previous Side Effect History

• Dogs that have previously shown hypersensitivity to antiparasitic drugs (e.g., itching, facial swelling, excessive salivation) should receive a test dose under veterinary supervision.

• Mild reactions are usually temporary, but in severe allergic cases, an alternative product should be preferred.

f) Dogs with High Parasite Burden

• Parasite loads can be very high, especially in dogs that come from shelters or have not been treated for a long time.

• In these cases, a fecal examination , blood test , and, if necessary, deworming protocol should be applied before NexGard Spectra application.

• Veterinary supervision is mandatory, as sudden parasite death can result in toxin release.

g) Use in Older Dogs

• In older dogs, absorption and excretion times may be longer because the metabolic rate decreases.

• In dogs over 8 years of age, the veterinarian should evaluate the dosage interval and, if necessary, may extend the protection period to 5 weeks.

h) Dogs with Heart Disease

• Milbemycin Oxime is effective for heartworm prophylaxis but should be used with caution in cases of advanced heart failure.

• In such cases, the veterinarian may refer to alternative macrocyclic lactone-free products if necessary.

In conclusion: While NexGard Spectra is safe for most dogs, the above conditions require veterinary approval. Clinical history, blood parameters, and concomitant medication use should be reviewed. Veterinary monitoring prevents potential complications and ensures maximum protection.

13. NexGard Spectra Post-Application Care and Effectiveness Control

After NexGard Spectra application, regular care and monitoring should be provided, taking into account the dog's general condition and environmental conditions. This will maximize the protective effect of the medication and minimize the risk of re-infestation.

a) First 24 Hours After Application

• Make sure that the tablet is swallowed whole.

• If vomiting or spitting occurs, a new dose may need to be given within 12 hours.

• The dog can continue its normal activity during this time; no special restrictions are required.

• Water and food consumption should be monitored, and loss of appetite or lethargy should be checked, especially in small breeds.

b) Behavioral and Physical Observation

• Since the effect of NexGard Spectra is systemic, the dog's general behavior should be observed during the first 48 hours after administration.

• If symptoms such as excessive scratching, hair loss, increased drooling or lethargy are observed, a veterinarian should be contacted.

• Under normal circumstances, these symptoms are mild and temporary.

c) Environmental Hygiene and Parasite Control

Parasites continue their life cycle not only on the dog but also in the environment. Therefore:

• The dog's bed, blanket, and toys should be washed in hot water.

• Carpets, sofas and floors should be vacuumed regularly, and egg accumulation should be prevented, especially in the edge areas.

• Other pets should also be protected simultaneously with appropriate antiparasitic products.

d) Evaluation of the Activity

• The protective effect of NexGard Spectra lasts approximately 30 days .

• If fleas or ticks reappear after this period, the environmental source of contamination should be investigated.

• Skin scraping , blood test (microfilaria control) and fecal examination performed in veterinary clinics are the most accurate methods to monitor the effectiveness of the product.

e) Long-Term Protection Program

• The protection plan should be determined according to the dog's lifestyle (indoor, outdoor, rural life).

• In areas where flea and tick activity is seen throughout the year , 12 months of uninterrupted application is recommended.

• In areas where there is a risk of heartworm, the prevention program should be maintained on a permanent, rather than seasonal, basis .

• In multi-dog households, treating all dogs on the same day breaks the infestation chain.

f) Post-Application Clinical Control

Your veterinarian will usually recommend a thorough checkup once a year to verify the effectiveness of the medication:

• Heartworm test (antigen test),

• Fecal parasite analysis,

• General blood test and liver and kidney function tests.

These controls support the safe long-term use of NexGard Spectra and enable early detection of potential complications.

g) Owner Awareness Raising

Dog owners should be informed about parasite transmission routes, zoonotic risks and protection periods. The veterinarian should set a reminder date for the dog's next dose after each administration.

In conclusion: Regular monitoring, environmental cleaning, and annual veterinary checkups following NexGard Spectra application ensure the dog's long-term health. The product's success is maximized not only with a single dose, but also with systematic and conscientious use.

Nexgard Spectra FAQ

What is NexGard Spectra and what does it do in dogs?

NexGard Spectra is a meat-flavored chewable tablet that provides complete 30-day protection against fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal parasites in dogs with a single dose. It simultaneously controls both internal and external parasites.

What are the active ingredients of NexGard Spectra?

It contains two active ingredients: Afoxolaner (kills fleas, ticks and mites) and Milbemycin Oxime (kills intestinal worms and heartworm larvae).

How does NexGard Spectra work?

Afoxolaner blocks the parasites' nervous system, causing paralysis. Milbemycin Oxime, on the other hand, kills internal parasites by interrupting neuromuscular transmission. Thus, a single dose breaks the parasite cycle.

How long does it take for NexGard Spectra to take effect?

Effectiveness is seen on fleas within 24 hours and on ticks within 48 hours. Effectiveness on heartworms and intestinal parasites begins the same day.

How often should NexGard Spectra be used?

It should be given monthly, every 30 days. Regular use provides lasting protection and prevents parasite re-proliferation.

Which dogs can it be used safely on?

It can be used safely in dogs over 8 weeks of age and weighing more than 2 kg. It should be used with veterinary approval in pregnant, nursing, or elderly dogs.

Can it be used on puppies?

Yes. It can be used safely on puppies aged 8 weeks and weighing at least 2 kg. Regular monthly protection prevents rapid parasite transmission in puppies.

What parasites is NexGard Spectra effective against?

It is effective against fleas ( Ctenocephalides felis ), ticks ( Ixodes ricinus , Rhipicephalus sanguineus ), heartworms ( Dirofilaria immitis ) and intestinal parasites (hookworm, whipworm, pinworm).

Can it be used on cats?

No. NexGard Spectra is for dogs only. The appropriate formula for cats is NexGard Combo .

Does it prevent heartworm disease?

Yes. Milbemycin Oxime prevents the disease by killing heartworm larvae, which are transmitted by mosquitoes.

How should NexGard Spectra be given?

Your dog usually enjoys eating the meat-flavored tablet. If they don't, you can mix it into their food. Giving it on a full stomach increases absorption.

Can it be used with other medications?

It is generally safe, but veterinary approval should be sought before using it with medications such as cortisone, antibiotics, or ivermectin.

What should I do if my dog vomits after taking the medicine?

If the child vomits within the first two hours, absorption of the medication may have decreased. Consult your veterinarian to determine if a re-dose is necessary.

Can I take a bath after the application?

Yes. Since it is in tablet form, bathing or contact with water does not affect its effectiveness.

What are the side effects?

Mild vomiting, loss of appetite, or drowsiness may occur. In rare cases, tremors may occur in dogs with a low seizure threshold.

Is it safe for dogs with epilepsy?

It should be used with caution. Your veterinarian may recommend a dose adjustment or an alternative product based on a risk-benefit analysis.

Is it effective for flea allergy dermatitis (FAD)?

Yes. It prevents fleas from sucking blood, thus reducing allergic reactions and skin irritation.

Does it prevent tick-borne diseases?

Yes. It kills ticks within 48 hours, reducing the risk of transmission such as Ehrlichiosis , Babesiosis and Lyme disease .

How long does the protective effect last?

A single tablet provides 30 days of full protection. Regular monthly use completely breaks the parasite cycle.

Does resistance develop with long-term use?

The risk of resistance is low. However, irregular application and neglect of environmental hygiene may increase resistance.

Can it be used in pregnant and lactating dogs?

Yes, it is safe according to manufacturer testing. However, it is recommended to consult your veterinarian before use.

Can it be used on allergic dogs?

Generally safe. Caution should be exercised in dogs that have previously reacted to antiparasitic medications.

Is it necessary to give additional internal parasite tablets?

No. NexGard Spectra protects against both internal and external interference. No additional tablet is necessary.

Is environmental cleaning necessary?

Yes. The medication kills the parasites, but it doesn't kill the eggs in the environment. Cleaning your bedding and carpets will increase the effectiveness of the medication.

In which seasons should it be used?

It should be used year-round in warm and temperate regions. In Turkey, regular use for 12 months is recommended.

14. Sources

• Boehringer Ingelheim – NexGard Spectra Product Monograph (2024)

• European Medicines Agency (EMA) – Assessment Report for Afoxolaner + Milbemycin Oxime

• Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) Guidelines – Antiparasitic Protocols for Dogs , 2024

• American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) – Parasite Prevention Recommendations for Companion Animals