Description
Frontline Plus is a topical medicine used to help control flea and tick infestations in dogs and cats. It contains two active ingredientsāfipronil and (S)-methopreneāthat work together to kill adult fleas and ticks while disrupting the growth of flea eggs and larvae. Frontline Plus is a spot-on treatment that is applied directly to the skin, usually at the base of the pet's neck, providing protection for up to 30 days per dose. Dogs and cats over 8 weeks old may receive this treatment to prevent and manage infestations caused by fleas, ticks, and chewing lice.
Directions
Frontline Plus is applied once per month. First, remove a single applicator from the packaging, snap off the tip, and part the animalās fur between the shoulders until the skin is visible. Place the applicator tip directly onto the skin and squeeze out all the medication in one spot. Do not rub in the solution. Avoid contact with the animalās eyes and mouth. For most dogs and cats, the standard dosage is 1 applicator per month, dosed according to weight. After applying it, keep the pet dry for 48 hours.
Ingredients
The active ingredients in Frontline Plus are fipronil and (S)-methoprene.
Contraindications
Avoid giving this medication if any of the following apply:
- The pet is less than 8 weeks old
- The pet weighs less than 2 kg (for dogs)
- The pet weighs less than 1 kg (for cats)
- The pet is sick, for example with a systemic disease or a fever
- The pet is recovering from illness (convalescent)
- There are known allergies to fipronil or (S)-methoprene
Cautions
- Before giving this medication, consult a veterinarian about the following:
- Any existing health conditions
- Any allergies
- A list of all medications being taken
- After applying Frontline Plus, avoid bathing your pet or letting them swim for at least 2 days. Frequent baths, especially with moisturizing shampoos, can shorten how long the flea protection lasts.
- Dogs should not swim in lakes, rivers, or other water sources for 2 days after treatment. While the product helps protect against ticks, it doesnāt guarantee full prevention of tick-borne diseases.
- Fleas often hide in your petās bed, carpets, and furniture. Vacuum regularly and treat these areas with a flea spray, especially during heavy infestations or at the start of treatment.
- All pets in the household should be treated at the same time with appropriate products to fully control fleas and ticks.
- Avoid getting the product in your petās eyes. Apply it in a place they canāt lick, and make sure other pets donāt lick each other after treatment.
- Weigh your pet before applying the correct dose. Keep the pipettes in their original packaging until youāre ready to use them.
- This product can irritate skin, eyes, or the mouth. If it gets on your skin or in your eyes, wash with water right away. Wash hands thoroughly after use.
- If swallowed, seek medical attention and show the product label. Anyone allergic to insecticides or alcohol should avoid handling the medication.
- Donāt touch your pet until the application site is dry. Treated pets should not sleep with peopleāespecially childrenāon the day of application.
- Itās best to apply Frontline Plus in the early evening. Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking during application.
Side Effects
Frontline Plus is considered safe for most dogs, but like any medication, it can sometimes cause side effects. Some dogs may have mild skin reactions where the product is applied, such as redness, itching, hair loss, or changes in skin color. Occasionally, dogs might scratch or lose hair in other areas as well. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own.
Rarely, dogs may drool, vomit, or show signs like being unusually tired or overly sensitive to touch. This usually happens if the dog licks the product. To prevent this, apply Frontline Plus in a spot your dog canāt reach and keep pets apart until the area is dry.
References:
- Frontline Plus Spot-On Dog Product Monograph. Berkshire, UK: Merial Animal Health Ltd; 2018.
- Frontline Plus Product Monograph. Toulouse, France: Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health France SCS; 2021.
About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)
Dr. Sison graduated with honors from the University of Florida. He began his career in pharmacy counseling patients in a community setting and later served in hospitals and clinics. He has also worked in medication therapy management services. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 15278