Credelio (Tick & Flea Treatment)

Credelio is an oral medication used for the treatment and prevention of flea and tick infestations in dogs and cats. Here’s what you should know about Credelio:

Active Ingredient

• Lotilaner: The active ingredient in Credelio is lotilaner, which is a type of isoxazoline. It works by inhibiting the nervous system of fleas and ticks, leading to their death.

Usage

• Fleas: Credelio kills adult fleas before they can lay eggs, effectively controlling flea infestations.
• Ticks: It is also effective against various types of ticks, including the black-legged tick (deer tick), the American dog tick, the lone star tick, and the brown dog tick.

Administration

• Form: Credelio comes in a flavored chewable tablet form, making it easier to administer to pets.
• Frequency: It is usually given once a month, and the dose is based on the weight of the animal. For cats, it’s important to ensure you are using the product specifically formulated for them, as there is a version for dogs as well.

Safety

• Side Effects: Credelio is generally well-tolerated, but some pets may experience side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. If your pet shows any signs of an adverse reaction, it’s important to contact your veterinarian.
• Precautions: It’s recommended for use in pets that are at least 8 weeks old and weigh at least 2.0 pounds (for cats).

Effectiveness

• Speed: Credelio starts working within hours of administration and is highly effective at killing fleas and ticks before they can transmit diseases.
• Duration: Its protective effects last for a full month.

Veterinary Prescription

• Prescription Required: Credelio is a prescription medication, meaning you will need a vet’s approval to purchase it.

Important Notes

• Combination with Other Medications: Always consult with a veterinarian before combining Credelio with other medications to avoid potential interactions.
• Suitability: Credelio is not suitable for all pets, particularly those with a history of seizures or certain health conditions.

If you’re considering Credelio for your pet, it’s best to discuss it with your veterinarian to ensure it’s the right choice for their specific needs.

---

Why Credelio (Isoxazolines) Has Specific Concerns:

1. Isoxazoline Class of Drugs: Credelio belongs to the isoxazoline class of drugs, which includes other medications like Bravecto, NexGard, and Simparica. These medications are effective because they interfere with the nervous system of parasites. However, because they also interact with the nervous system of pets, there is a potential risk for neurological side effects, including seizures, especially in pets with a history of seizures or other neurological conditions.
2. Neurological Side Effects: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued alerts for the isoxazoline class of drugs, warning that they can potentially cause adverse neurological reactions, including muscle tremors, ataxia, and seizures. This risk is why Credelio and other isoxazoline drugs carry specific warnings for use in pets with a history of seizures.

How Other Flea and Tick Medications Differ:

1. Topical Treatments: Some topical flea and tick preventatives, such as Frontline (fipronil) or Advantage (imidacloprid), are less likely to cause systemic neurological side effects because they are applied to the skin and work by spreading across the skin’s surface rather than being absorbed into the bloodstream. These treatments are generally considered safer for pets with a history of seizures.
2. Oral Medications in Different Classes: Other oral medications, like Capstar (nitenpyram), which works as a short-acting flea treatment, may have a different mechanism of action and are not part of the isoxazoline class. These alternatives might pose a lower risk to pets with neurological issues, though it’s still important to consult a veterinarian.
3. Natural and Non-Chemical Options: For pets with a history of seizures, some pet owners explore natural or non-chemical flea and tick control methods. These might include flea combs, regular grooming, and environmental control measures like frequent vacuuming and washing of pet bedding. However, these methods may be less effective than chemical preventatives.

Conclusion:

The concern about seizures primarily applies to the isoxazoline class of medications, including Credelio. While other flea and tick treatments might be safer for pets with a history of seizures, it’s crucial to discuss any treatment plan with a veterinarian, who can recommend the best and safest option based on the pet’s specific health needs.