Nexgard Recall
Nexgard, a widely prescribed chewable tablet that combats fleas and ticks in dogs, has become a household name for many pet owners. But as with many medications, concerns have arisen about its safety, leading to the surfacing of the term “Nexgard recall”.
What is Nexgard?
Manufactured by Merial, now part of Boehringer Ingelheim, Nexgard is an oral treatment that targets fleas and ticks, ensuring they are eliminated within 24 hours of ingestion. Its active ingredient, afoxolaner, works by interfering with the nervous system of these pests.
Has there been an official Nexgard Recall?
There has been no official recall of Nexgard by regulatory agencies. Often, terms like “Nexgard recall” seen on platforms such as Reddit arise from individual anecdotal experiences rather than widespread systematic issues.
Is Nexgard Safe for Dogs?
According to vets and clinical studies:
- Benefits: Nexgard not only kills adult fleas and prevents flea infestations, but it also treats and prevents the Black-legged tick, the American Dog tick, the Lone Star tick, and the Brown dog tick infestations.
- Common Side Effects: Vomiting, itching, diarrhea, lethargy, and lack of appetite.
- Rarer Side Effects: Seizures have been reported but are considered rare.
However, as the top comment on Reddit aptly put it, “There are no medications with zero risk of side effects.” It’s essential for pet owners to discuss any concerns with their vet.
Addressing Concerns About Seizures
While some Reddit users shared experiences of their dogs having seizures after consuming Nexgard, it’s vital to understand that correlation does not imply causation. Various factors can induce seizures in dogs, including underlying health conditions. While it’s crucial to take such incidents seriously, it’s equally essential to approach them with a critical mind.
So, Should You Use Nexgard?
Every dog is unique. What works for one might not work for another. While many dogs have used Nexgard without issue, some might experience side effects. Always:
- Consult with your vet before starting any new medication.
- Monitor your dog for any adverse reactions after administration.
- Report any severe side effects to the manufacturer or the FDA.
Conclusion
While the term “Nexgard recall” might cause alarm, it’s essential to base decisions on verified information and professional advice rather than hearsay. Nexgard remains a popular choice for many, but always prioritize your pet’s health by staying informed and consulting with professionals.
FAQs: Nexgard and Its Implications
Q: What’s the active ingredient in Nexgard?
A: The active component of Nexgard is afoxolaner. This compound disrupts the nervous system of pests, effectively eliminating ticks and fleas upon ingestion.
Q: How often should Nexgard be administered to dogs?
A: Nexgard is typically given once a month. It’s crucial to adhere to this schedule to maintain its efficacy in preventing flea and tick infestations.
Q: Can I use Nexgard for my cat?
A: No, Nexgard is specifically formulated for dogs. If you’re searching for flea and tick prevention for your cat, consult your vet for suitable alternatives.
Q: Are there any age or weight restrictions for using Nexgard?
A: Yes, Nexgard is recommended for dogs 8 weeks of age or older, with a minimum weight of 4 pounds.
Q: Does Nexgard also protect against heartworms?
A: No, Nexgard specifically targets fleas and ticks. If you’re concerned about heartworms, discuss with your veterinarian about adding a heartworm preventive to your dog’s regimen.
Q: My dog has food allergies. Can he still take Nexgard?
A: Nexgard is a beef-flavored chewable, so if your dog has beef allergies, this could be a concern. However, it’s essential to discuss specifics with your veterinarian, as they’ll provide guidance tailored to your pet’s needs.
Q: Can I give Nexgard to my pregnant or lactating dog?
A: The safety of Nexgard in pregnant, breeding, or lactating dogs has not been evaluated. It’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian before giving any medication to such dogs.
Q: How does Nexgard compare to other flea and tick preventatives?
A: Several factors distinguish Nexgard from other preventatives, including its chewable form, speed of efficacy, and the specific pests it targets. However, the best choice varies based on a dog’s health, environment, and potential exposure risks. Always consider professional advice before making a choice.
Q: Are there any interactions between Nexgard and other medications?
A: While Nexgard doesn’t have widely recognized adverse interactions with other medications, it’s always a wise choice to inform your vet of all medications and supplements your dog is taking before introducing a new one.
Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?
A: If you forget a dose, administer Nexgard as soon as you remember. Then, set a monthly schedule from that date. Keeping a consistent routine helps maintain its protective benefits.
Q: Are there reported side effects associated with Nexgard?
A: Yes, some dogs might experience side effects. Commonly reported ones include vomiting, itching, diarrhea, lethargy, and lack of appetite. However, most dogs tolerate it well.
Q: Has there been a recall associated with Nexgard?
A: There has been no widespread recall of Nexgard. However, always check the manufacturer’s website or the FDA’s pet food recall list for the latest information.
Q: How long does it take for Nexgard to start working?
A: After ingestion, Nexgard starts killing fleas within four hours and ticks within 12 hours.
Q: If my dog is on another flea/tick treatment, can I switch to Nexgard immediately?
A: Generally, you can transition from one treatment to Nexgard. Still, it’s recommended to wait until the end of the current treatment’s cycle before introducing a new one. Discuss transitions with your veterinarian.
Q: Are there any breeds particularly sensitive to Nexgard?
A: There’s no conclusive evidence that specific breeds are more sensitive. However, each dog, irrespective of breed, can react differently. Monitoring any new medication’s effects is crucial.
Q: What if my dog spits out the Nexgard chew?
A: If your dog spits out the chewable soon after you’ve given it, you can offer another one. To avoid wastage, consider pairing it with a treat or disguising it within their meal.
Q: How is Nexgard stored?
A: Store Nexgard in its original packaging at room temperature and away from direct sunlight. Ensure it’s out of children’s reach.
Q: Can I bathe my dog after administering Nexgard?
A: Yes, bathing or swimming won’t affect Nexgard’s efficacy, as it’s taken orally and not a topical treatment.
Q: Does Nexgard also repel fleas and ticks, or just kill them?
A: Nexgard primarily acts by killing fleas and ticks after they bite your dog. It doesn’t repel them, but its rapid action reduces the chance of disease transmission.
Q: Are there any known counterfeit versions of Nexgard on the market?
A: Like many popular products, counterfeit pet medications can surface. It’s crucial to purchase Nexgard from reputable sources, preferably directly from your vet or authorized dealers.
Q: Is Nexgard safe for puppies?
A: Nexgard is generally approved for puppies 8 weeks of age and older, weighing 4 pounds or more. However, for puppies younger or smaller, consulting a veterinarian is essential.
Q: How does Nexgard interact with other medications?
A: No specific drug interactions have been documented. Yet, if your dog is on other medications, particularly other flea and tick treatments, it’s paramount to discuss with your vet.
Q: Does Nexgard protect against all types of ticks?
A: Nexgard is effective against several tick species, including the Black-legged tick, Lone star tick, and American dog tick, among others. However, no treatment guarantees protection against all tick types.
Q: Can I give Nexgard to my pregnant or lactating dog?
A: The safety of Nexgard in pregnant, breeding, or lactating dogs hasn’t been evaluated. Always rely on veterinary advice in such circumstances.
Q: If my dog has a history of seizures, is Nexgard safe?
A: While Nexgard is generally safe, there have been reports of seizures in dogs after taking it. If your dog has a seizure history, you must consult with your veterinarian before administration.
Q: How does Nexgard differ from other oral flea and tick preventatives?
A: The primary differentiation is the active ingredient. Nexgard contains afoxolaner, while others might contain fluralaner or sarolaner. These ingredients have varied durations of action and different spectrums of pest coverage.
Q: Is there a specific season I should administer Nexgard to my dog?
A: While fleas and ticks are prevalent in warmer months, they can appear year-round in certain regions. Many veterinarians recommend continuous, year-round protection to ensure consistent defense against these pests.
Q: How often should I check my dog for ticks if they’re on Nexgard?
A: Despite Nexgard’s efficacy, routine tick checks, especially after outdoor activities in wooded or grassy areas, are still advised. This ensures early detection and removal, further reducing disease risk.
Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of Nexgard?
A: If you miss giving a dose, administer Nexgard as soon as you remember. Then, continue on the regular monthly schedule. Maintaining consistency is key for optimum protection.
Q: Can I administer Nexgard if my dog is on a special diet?
A: Since Nexgard is an oral medication independent of daily food intake, it generally doesn’t interfere with special diets. However, discussing any dietary concerns with your veterinarian is always wise.