The FDA Warning states that these chewable flea and tick products can cause seizures and other neurological adverse effects in cats and dogs.

The FDA issued a warning about chewable Flea and Tick products that are responsible for Seizures in both dogs and cats.  These are FDA-approved drugs prescribed a veterinarian.  These are four drugs: Simparica, Bravecto, Credelio, and Nexgard. 

What products are included in FDA Warning?

These flea and tick products are known to be the the isoxazoline class. Only products in this class have been associated with the risk of seizures and other neurological affects.  To date the products include:

 Simparica, Bravecto, Credelio, and Nexgard 

Not all pets that have been prescribed these products will experience these serious adverse reactions.  But for most pet owners the risk is not worth the trial.  Veterinarians have not been discussing this risk with pet owners nor are they required to do so.  The number of reports filed with the FDA have forced the agency to issue a warning and require a warning on the product label. Presently the products have not been removed from the market and are still being prescribed.

What are these Adverse Reactions?

Muscle tremors, ataxia (the loss of control of bodily movements), and seizures have been reported,  even in animals with no prior history of these issues, after using these chewable flea products.

Video Chewable Flea Products and Seizures.

April 9, 2019    The owner of this dog in the video reported that:

“Her dog never had seizures until he was given #simparica flea and tick medication by his veterinarian. Her dog is now on two anti-seizure medications twice a day and still has 10 to 11 seizures back to back once a month. The neurologist told her that the pet has developed a seizure focus which means the pet is going to suffer this every month for the rest of his life. This pet owner hopes that you share this and warn other pet owners! The pet owner reports that the medication was prescribed without any warning to the owner. She has reported that her pet had to be hospitalized due to the increased number and frequency of seizures.”

Should you use a Flea and Tick product?

The answer is “yes”.  These parasites can transmit serious illnesses.  Many pet owners choose to treat outside pet areas with granular products that are sprinkled on the lawn and flower beds.  An example would be: Spectracide Triazicide.If you choose to use these products it is important to treat areas in front of your home where fellow neighbor’s pets visit or taken on walks.

The first flea and tick products applied or used on pets was in 2013.  Products not in the class “isoxazoline”  have not been associated with these adverse reactions.  Discuss alternatives with your veterinarian.

Why you should share this with friends and neighbors.

It is important that pet owners let other pet owners know about these FDA warnings.  The manufacturers of these products are only required to put a warning on the label of these products. This warning does not have to be communicated to the pet owner by the veterinarian.  

What to do if pet has an adverse event.

Immediately notify your veterinarian and seek medical help for your pet.

The FDA recommendations for adverse events can be seen by clicking  on this text.