Nexgard vs Credelio: A Comparative Analysis

Navigating the vast world of flea and tick preventatives can be a challenging task for pet owners. Among the top contenders in this space are Nexgard and Credelio, both of which come highly recommended by many veterinarians. In this article, we’ll delve deep into these two products, understanding their unique attributes, how they work, and what sets them apart.

1. Introduction to Nexgard and Credelio

Nexgard

Manufactured by Boehringer Ingelheim, Nexgard is an oral chewable tablet designed to kill adult fleas before they lay eggs. It’s also effective against several types of ticks. The main ingredient in Nexgard is Afoxolaner, which works by interfering with the nervous system of fleas and ticks, leading to their paralysis and subsequent death.

Credelio

Produced by Elanco, Credelio is another oral chewable that targets fleas and ticks. The active ingredient in Credelio is Lotilaner. Like Afoxolaner in Nexgard, Lotilaner acts on the nervous system of the parasites, causing their eventual demise.

2. Efficacy and Duration

Nexgard: Nexgard starts killing fleas within 4 hours of administration and can kill 100% of fleas within 24 hours. For ticks, Nexgard claims to kill certain species within 48 hours post-infestation. Each dose of Nexgard provides protection for a full month.

Credelio: Credelio starts its action against fleas within 4 hours and against ticks within 6 hours. By 24 hours, it achieves nearly 100% efficacy. Like Nexgard, Credelio also offers a month-long protection post-administration.

3. Spectrum of Protection

Nexgard: Nexgard is efficient against multiple tick species such as the Black-legged tick, Lone Star tick, and the American dog tick. It’s also known to be effective against the Brown dog tick and the Culex mosquitoes (potential vectors of heartworm disease).

Credelio: Credelio targets a broad range of ticks including Black-legged tick, American dog tick, Brown dog tick, and Lone Star tick. It is also effective against fleas in all their life stages.

4. Safety and Side Effects

Nexgard: Common side effects, though rare, can include vomiting, itching, diarrhea, lethargy, and lack of appetite. There’s also been mention in forums and studies about potential neurological effects, though the data is not conclusive.

Credelio: Potential side effects of Credelio can be weight loss, elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN), polyuria, and excessive urination. While there’s a discourse around the neurological risks associated with isoxazoline class drugs (which includes both Nexgard and Credelio), it’s crucial to consult with a vet to understand these risks in the context of individual pet health.

5. Administration and Palatability

Both Nexgard and Credelio come in the form of beef-flavored chewables, making it easier for pet owners to administer. The chews are designed to be palatable, and most dogs consume them as treats. However, the acceptance might vary based on individual pet preferences.

6. Price Point

The cost of both medications can vary based on the retailer, geographic location, and the size of the dog (as dosages differ). In general, they are competitively priced, but it’s always good to shop around or discuss with a vet about any available rebates or discounts.

7. Prescription Status

Both Nexgard and Credelio require a veterinarian’s prescription in many countries, emphasizing the importance of a vet’s role in choosing the right flea and tick preventative for individual pets.

In Summary

When choosing between Nexgard and Credelio, the decision often boils down to individual pet needs, the veterinarian’s recommendation, and sometimes, price considerations. Both products have a solid track record in flea and tick prevention, and understanding their nuances can help pet owners make an informed choice. Always consult with a vet before making any changes to a pet’s medication regimen.

FAQs: Credelio vs Nexgard

Q1: Can I give Nexgard or Credelio to my puppy?

Nexgard: Nexgard is approved for puppies as young as 8 weeks old, weighing 4 pounds or more.

Credelio: Credelio is safe for puppies who are 8 weeks of age or older and weigh at least 4.4 pounds.

Q2: How do these treatments fare in water or after a bath?

Nexgard: Being an oral medication, Nexgard’s efficacy isn’t affected by your dog’s bathing schedule or any water exposure.

Credelio: Similarly, Credelio’s effectiveness remains unchanged post-bathing or swimming since it’s ingested orally.

Q3: Can these medications be given alongside other drugs or supplements?

Nexgard: Generally, Nexgard can be administered with other medications. However, interactions might occur, so it’s best to consult with your veterinarian, especially if your dog is on multiple medications.

Credelio: Credelio can usually be combined with other medications, but always ensure to discuss with your vet to rule out potential interactions.

Q4: Are there any breed-specific concerns with Nexgard or Credelio?

Both treatments are designed for dogs of all breeds. However, breeds prone to neurological disorders might be more susceptible to potential side effects. Always seek vet guidance, especially if you own a breed with such predispositions.

Q5: How soon after administration will the medications start working?

Nexgard: Begins killing fleas within 4 hours and ticks within 48 hours.

Credelio: Starts acting against fleas in just 4 hours and ticks within 6 hours post-administration.

Q6: What if I miss or delay a dose?

Nexgard: If a dose is missed, give the tablet immediately and resume the monthly schedule. It’s essential to give the chews for all 12 months of the year.

Credelio: In case of a missed dose, administer Credelio immediately and then continue with the regular monthly dosing schedule.

Q7: Are there any storage precautions for these treatments?

Both medications should be stored at room temperature in their original packaging, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.

Q8: Are there any known resistance issues with fleas or ticks to these products?

While there are instances where some parasites develop resistance to certain treatments, no widespread resistance to Nexgard or Credelio has been documented. If you notice reduced efficacy, it’s a good idea to consult your vet.

Q9: Can I give Nexgard or Credelio to my cat?

Nexgard: Nexgard is specifically formulated for dogs, and its safety and efficacy have not been evaluated in cats.

Credelio: Credelio does have a formulation for cats, but ensure you’re using the correct version and always consult with a veterinarian.

Q10: Do either Nexgard or Credelio protect against heartworms?

Neither Nexgard nor Credelio are designed to protect against heartworms. They are specifically flea and tick preventatives. For heartworm prevention, other medications would be required.

Q11: How do these treatments affect the environment after excretion?

Nexgard: The primary ingredient, afoxolaner, may pass into the environment through feces. The long-term ecological impacts aren’t fully known, but pet owners are advised to dispose of pet waste properly to minimize any potential ecological footprint.

Credelio: Similarly, lotilaner, Credelio’s active ingredient, is excreted in feces. Proper waste disposal is essential to reduce environmental impact, though extensive studies on its full ecological ramifications are pending.

Q12: Are these products safe for pregnant or lactating dogs?

Nexgard: The safety of Nexgard in pregnant, breeding, or lactating dogs hasn’t been explicitly determined. Consultation with a veterinarian is crucial before administration.

Credelio: Clinical studies have not conclusively proven Credelio’s safety in pregnant or nursing dogs. Always seek professional advice before making a decision.

Q13: Can these medications cause allergic reactions?

Nexgard: While rare, some dogs might exhibit allergic reactions to Nexgard, including itching, vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. Immediate vet consultation is recommended if such signs occur.

Credelio: Similarly, allergic reactions to Credelio are infrequent but possible. Signs can include uncoordinated movements, increased salivation, or muscle tremors. Any unusual behavior post-administration warrants a vet visit.

Q14: Can either of these treatments be used in multi-pet households?

Both Nexgard and Credelio are safe for use in households with multiple pets. However, ensure that each pet gets the appropriate dosage based on its weight and species. Additionally, monitor interactions to ensure one pet doesn’t try to consume another’s medication.

Q15: Do Nexgard or Credelio leave any residue that can affect humans?

Since both are oral medications, there’s no risk of topical residue, which means pet owners can maintain their usual interactions with their dogs without concerns about potential residue transfer.

Q16: Are there any known drug interactions with either Nexgard or Credelio?

There are no widely recognized harmful drug interactions for either Nexgard or Credelio. However, given the diversity of potential drug combinations and the unique physiology of each pet, it’s pivotal to discuss all medications your dog is on with your veterinarian.

Q17: How long should I wait between administering Nexgard or Credelio and bathing my dog?

Both Nexgard and Credelio are unaffected by bathing or swimming since they are oral treatments. However, it’s generally good practice to wait a couple of hours post-administration to ensure complete absorption from the stomach.

Q18: Do these treatments offer any protection against other parasites like mites or lice?

Nexgard: In addition to fleas and ticks, Nexgard has demonstrated efficacy against certain mite species.

Credelio: Apart from fleas and ticks, Credelio can also treat infestations caused by specific mites.