Trifexis vs Simparica Trio
If you’re a pet parent, one of your top priorities is to keep your furry friend safe from parasites. Heartworms, fleas, ticks, and various types of worms can pose a serious threat to your dog’s health. Fortunately, there are many medications on the market that offer excellent protection. Two such products are Trifexis and Simparica Trio. In this article, we’ll explore the similarities and differences between these two medications so that you can make an informed decision.
Similarities Between Trifexis and Simparica Trio
Both Trifexis and Simparica Trio are chewable tablets that are administered to dogs once a month. They require a prescription from your veterinarian, and they are both safe for use in puppies over 8 weeks old. Additionally, they both protect against heartworms, roundworms, hookworms, and fleas. These medications are also both very convenient to use and come in a tasty beef flavor that dogs love.
Differences Between Trifexis and Simparica Trio
While Trifexis and Simparica Trio are similar in many ways, there are some key differences that you should be aware of. For example, Simparica Trio contains three active ingredients: Sarolaner, Moxidectin, and Pyrantel. In addition to protecting against heartworms, roundworms, and hookworms, Simparica Trio also kills fleas and ticks. It even kills flea larvae and eggs, which can help prevent flea infestations in your home.
On the other hand, Trifexis contains two active ingredients: Spinosad and Milbemycin Oxime. Like Simparica Trio, Trifexis protects against heartworms, roundworms, and hookworms, as well as fleas. However, it does not protect against ticks. Trifexis also offers added protection against whipworms, which Simparica Trio does not treat.
Another notable difference between Trifexis and Simparica Trio is how quickly they start working against fleas. Trifexis begins killing biting fleas within 30 minutes of administration, while Simparica Trio starts killing fleas within 4 hours.
Choosing Between Trifexis and Simparica Trio
When it comes to choosing between Trifexis and Simparica Trio, there are a few factors to consider. If your dog is over 8 weeks old and weighs between 2.8 and 5 pounds, Simparica Trio is the only safe option. However, if your dog is over 5 pounds, both medications are safe to use.
One factor that may sway your decision is the added protection each medication offers. If you live in an area where ticks are prevalent, Simparica Trio may be the better option since it protects against both fleas and ticks. However, if whipworms are a concern for your dog, Trifexis may be the better choice.
FAQs about Simparica Trio vs Trifexis
We’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about these two products to help you make an informed decision.
What’s the difference between Trifexis and Simparica Trio?
The main difference between Trifexis and Simparica Trio is their approach to parasite control. While both medications protect against heartworms, fleas, roundworms, and hookworms, Simparica Trio also provides protection against flea larvae, eggs, and ticks. Trifexis, on the other hand, provides additional protection against whipworms and has a faster-acting formula that kills fleas within 30 minutes.
Which medication should I choose?
The medication you choose will depend on your puppy’s weight and the specific parasites you want to protect them from. If your puppy is over 8 weeks old and weighs between 2.8 and 5 pounds, Simparica Trio is the safest option. If your puppy is over 5 pounds and 8 weeks old, either option is safe. Speak to your veterinarian to determine which medication is best for your pet.
Are there any side effects of Trifexis or Simparica Trio?
As with any medication, there is a risk of side effects. Some common side effects of Trifexis include vomiting, lethargy, decreased appetite, and diarrhea. Simparica Trio may cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite. If you notice any unusual symptoms in your pet, contact your veterinarian.
Can Trifexis or Simparica Trio be used in pregnant or lactating dogs?
Neither Trifexis nor Simparica Trio has been evaluated for safety in pregnant, lactating, or breeding dogs. Speak to your veterinarian if your dog is pregnant or lactating to determine the best course of action.
How often should Trifexis or Simparica Trio be given?
Both Trifexis and Simparica Trio should be given once a month. It’s important to give the medication at the same time every month to ensure maximum effectiveness.
Do I need a prescription for Trifexis or Simparica Trio?
Yes, both Trifexis and Simparica Trio require a prescription from a veterinarian.
Can Trifexis or Simparica Trio be given to cats?
No, Trifexis and Simparica Trio are specifically designed for use in dogs and should not be given to cats.
Do Trifexis or Simparica Trio protect against ticks?
Both medications provide protection against certain types of ticks, but Simparica Trio provides more comprehensive tick control, including protection against lone star ticks, brown dog ticks, gulf coast ticks, American dog ticks, and black-legged ticks.
Can I give my dog both Trifexis and Simparica Trio?
No, it is not recommended to give your dog multiple parasite prevention medications at the same time. Doing so could cause an overdose and potentially harm your pet.
Which medication is better for my dog – Trifexis or Simparica Trio?
The answer to this question depends on your dog’s individual needs and health status. Both medications are effective at preventing heartworm disease, fleas, and certain types of intestinal parasites. Simparica Trio offers more comprehensive tick control and also kills flea eggs and larvae, while Trifexis provides protection against whipworms. Consult with your veterinarian to determine which medication is best for your dog.
How long does it take for Trifexis or Simparica Trio to start working?
Trifexis starts killing fleas within 30 minutes and provides protection against heartworms, roundworms, hookworms, and fleas for a full month. Simparica Trio starts killing fleas within 4 hours and provides protection against heartworms, roundworms, hookworms, fleas, and certain types of ticks for a full month.
Simparica Trio vs Bravecto: Which is better for my dog?
Both Simparica Trio and Bravecto are effective at preventing flea and tick infestations in dogs. However, there are some differences between the two. Simparica Trio offers additional protection against heartworm disease and intestinal parasites, while Bravecto only protects against fleas and ticks. Bravecto lasts for 12 weeks per dose, while Simparica Trio needs to be administered monthly. Ultimately, the choice between the two medications may come down to personal preference and the specific needs of your dog.
Simparica Trio vs Sentinel: What’s the difference?
While both Simparica Trio and Sentinel protect against heartworms, roundworms, and hookworms, they differ in their approach to flea and tick prevention. Simparica Trio uses a combination of three active ingredients to kill fleas, ticks, and their larvae and eggs, while Sentinel uses lufenuron to prevent flea eggs from hatching. Sentinel does not kill adult fleas or ticks, so if your dog is at risk for flea or tick infestations, Simparica Trio may be the better choice.
Simparica Trio vs Nexgard: Which is more effective?
Both Simparica Trio and Nexgard are effective at preventing flea and tick infestations in dogs. Simparica Trio also protects against heartworms, roundworms, and hookworms, while Nexgard does not. Nexgard may be more convenient for some pet parents since it only needs to be administered once a month, while Simparica Trio requires monthly doses. Ultimately, the choice between the two medications may come down to personal preference and the specific needs of your dog.
Is there an alternative to Simparica Trio?
While Simparica Trio is a highly effective medication for protecting dogs against heartworms, fleas, ticks, and intestinal parasites, there are alternative medications available. Some popular alternatives include Bravecto, Nexgard, and Sentinel. However, it is important to consult with your veterinarian to determine which medication is best for your dog’s specific needs.
Why is Simparica Trio so expensive?
Simparica Trio is a highly effective medication that uses a combination of three active ingredients to protect against heartworms, fleas, ticks, and intestinal parasites. The cost of the medication reflects the research and development that went into creating it, as well as the high-quality ingredients used in the formula. Additionally, the medication is only available with a prescription from a veterinarian, which may add to the overall cost.
