How Long Does Trifexis Last?
As responsible pet owners, we want to ensure our furry friends are free from pests and parasites. In this fight against unwanted invaders, Trifexis emerges as a potent ally. But, how long does Trifexis last? Let’s find out.
What is Trifexis?
Before we delve into its duration, let’s take a quick detour to understand what Trifexis is. This monthly, beef-flavored chewable tablet is a veterinary medication designed to ward off three primary threats to your dog’s health: heartworms, fleas, and intestinal parasites like hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms. Trifexis is FDA-approved and recommended for puppies over eight weeks old and dogs weighing at least five pounds.
The Trifexis Timeframe: From Ingestion to Protection
When given monthly, as per the instructions, Trifexis works by killing fleas and preventing flea infestations, protecting against heartworm disease, and treating and controlling adult hookworm, roundworm, and whipworm infections. But how quickly does it act, and how long does it last?
The Start of Action
Trifexis starts to kill fleas approximately 30 minutes after ingestion. In a controlled laboratory study, Trifexis was found to kill 100% of fleas within four hours.
The Duration of Efficacy
The effectiveness of Trifexis in preventing heartworm disease, as well as treating and controlling intestinal parasites, lasts for one month following administration. For flea prevention and treatment, Trifexis also maintains its efficacy for a month. But remember, Trifexis does not kill ticks, so discuss tick prevention options with your veterinarian.
Post-Expiration Potency of Trifexis
Like most medications, Trifexis comes with an expiration date. After this date, its efficacy is not guaranteed. Some may argue that a slightly expired pill may still work, but it’s crucial to remember that the expiration date is the last date at which the manufacturer guarantees the full potency and safety of their product.
While an 8-9 month period post-expiration might not seem much, it’s advisable not to risk your pet’s health with potentially ineffective medicine. Always ensure that you’re providing your pet with in-date medications.
Final Thoughts: Adherence to Trifexis Schedule
To ensure Trifexis performs optimally, it’s crucial to adhere to the monthly dosing schedule. Missing doses or delaying administration can leave your pet exposed to the risks of heartworm disease, intestinal parasites, and flea infestations. While there’s a grace period when administering heartworm preventatives, regular on-time administration is the safest bet.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure, and in the case of heartworm disease, treatment can be costly and hard on your dog. So, keep up with your Trifexis schedule, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re protecting your pet from these common, yet preventable, parasites.
In conclusion, the fight against parasites is a continuous one. But with Trifexis, you can arm your furry friend with a month’s worth of protection against heartworms, fleas, and intestinal parasites. So mark your calendars and ensure your dog stays protected year-round with Trifexis.
FAQs About Trifexis
Q1: Can I give Trifexis to my puppy?
Yes, Trifexis is approved for use in dogs and puppies 8 weeks of age or older and weighing at least 5 pounds. However, always consult your veterinarian before starting any new medication regimen with your pet, especially puppies.
Q2: What happens if I miss a dose of Trifexis?
Missing a dose of Trifexis can leave your pet susceptible to parasites. If you’ve missed a dose, administer the medication as soon as you remember. Following this, continue with the regular monthly dosing schedule. But remember, it’s essential to avoid overdosing your pet by not giving more than one pill in a day.
Q3: Can I split the Trifexis dosage throughout the month?
No, Trifexis is designed to be given once a month, in a single dose. Splitting the tablet and administering it at different times throughout the month may interfere with its efficacy and is not recommended.
Q4: Does Trifexis protect against ticks?
While Trifexis is an effective tool against fleas, heartworms, and several types of intestinal parasites, it does not provide protection against ticks. Speak with your vet about additional tick prevention if you live in an area where ticks are common.
Q5: What should I do if my dog vomits after taking Trifexis?
If your dog vomits within an hour of administration, it’s possible that the full dose was not absorbed. In such cases, it is generally safe to give another full dose. However, it is always best to consult your vet if you’re unsure or if vomiting continues.
Q6: Can Trifexis be used alongside other medications?
Generally, Trifexis can be used concurrently with other medications. However, interactions can occur, so it’s vital to discuss all the medications and supplements your pet is taking with your vet before starting Trifexis.
Q7: How should I store Trifexis?
Trifexis should be stored at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit (20-25 degrees Celsius). It should also be kept out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
Q8: Is an overdose of Trifexis harmful to my dog?
While Trifexis is safe when administered at the recommended dosage, an overdose can cause side effects such as vomiting, decreased appetite, and diarrhea. If you suspect your pet has consumed more than the recommended dosage, consult your vet immediately.
Q9: My dog is pregnant. Can she take Trifexis?
The safety of Trifexis in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs has not been evaluated. It’s recommended to consult your vet to determine the best course of action in such scenarios.
Q10: Does Trifexis have any side effects?
Like any medication, Trifexis can have side effects, although these are generally rare. The most common include vomiting, itching, lethargy, and decreased appetite. If your dog experiences any of these or any other unusual symptoms, consult your vet promptly.
Q11: How does Trifexis work against parasites?
Trifexis works by using two active ingredients, spinosad and milbemycin oxime. Spinosad works by disrupting the nervous system of fleas, causing their demise. Milbemycin oxime interferes with nerve transmission in heartworms and intestinal parasites, leading to their elimination.
Q12: Why does my dog need to take Trifexis with food?
Taking Trifexis with food helps ensure the full absorption of the drug into the pet’s system, providing effective protection against parasites. Additionally, administering the pill with food can reduce the likelihood of stomach upset.
Q13: Can my cat take Trifexis?
No, Trifexis is not approved for use in cats. It’s essential to use only pet medications that are specifically formulated for the species of your pet. Using dog-specific medication for cats can lead to serious health problems.
Q14: Can Trifexis cause seizures in dogs?
While very rare, some dogs might have an adverse reaction to Trifexis, and in exceptional cases, this can include seizures. Dogs with a history of seizures or neurological disorders should only be given Trifexis under close veterinary supervision.
Q15: What is the shelf life of Trifexis?
Trifexis has an expiration date printed on the packaging. It is important to use the product before this date for maximum effectiveness. If you’ve found an expired pack, it’s best to dispose of it properly and obtain a new prescription.
Q16: Can humans take Trifexis for parasites?
No, Trifexis is formulated for veterinary use only and should never be taken by humans. Human consumption can result in severe side effects or poisoning.
Q17: How long does it take for Trifexis to kill fleas?
Trifexis begins to kill fleas within 30 minutes of administration and has been shown to kill 100% of all biting fleas within 4 hours. It’s crucial to administer Trifexis every month to prevent re-infestations.
Q18: How will I know if Trifexis is working?
Signs that Trifexis is working include a reduction or absence of fleas on your pet, no new signs of intestinal parasites (like worms in feces), and your pet remaining heartworm-free at their annual check-up.
Q19: Can Trifexis cause allergies in my dog?
While it’s not common, some dogs might have an allergic reaction to Trifexis. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. If you notice these or any other concerning signs after administering Trifexis, contact your vet immediately.
Q20: What should I do in case of a Trifexis overdose?
In case of an overdose, contact your veterinarian immediately. Symptoms of an overdose might include vomiting, drowsiness, or loss of appetite. It’s crucial to keep Trifexis out of reach of pets to prevent accidental ingestion.