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A photo of a puppy. The FDA has issued a warning against a type of flea and tick medicine that could cause undesirable neurological problems. Dogs and cats that have taken these veterinary products have had muscle tremors and convulsions. ( pixabay )
The authorities are warn pet owners of certain flea and tick medications that could cause muscle tremors or even convulsions in dogs and cats.
The US Food and Drug Agency announced Thursday (September 20th) that Bravecto, Nexgard, Simparica and Credelio could have neurological side effects. All four have already been approved for the treatment and prevention of flea and tick infestations.
The dangers of flea and tick medicine
The agency has discovered the adverse side effects of the drug on data received as part of its post-marketing activities. Veterinarians and pet owners report that some animals who received one of the four drugs experienced muscle tremors, ataxia, or seizures.
The FDA has also identified four drugs in the class of isoxazolines, a pesticide approved since 2013 for veterinary flea and tick products. The synthetic pesticide is also effective against agricultural pests.
The agency is currently working with manufacturers of isoxazoline-based products to add a label highlighting its negative side effects.
"Although FDA scientists are carefully evaluating an animal drug before it is approved, new information could emerge after the commercialization, when the product is used in a much larger population," the press release said. "In the first three years after approval, the FDA pays special attention to reports of adverse events, looking for safety information that may appear."
Always safe
Although drugs of the class of isoxazoline have potential adverse effects, the FDA has not issued a recall. The agency said the products are relatively safe and continue to be effective. Most cats and dogs who took both oral and topical medications did not have any neurological side effects.
However, it is the veterinarian's duty to check the animal's medical history before prescribing an isoxazoline class drug. A number of other different products are currently available on the market and target fleas and ticks.
Pet owners are also advised to monitor the reaction of their dogs and their cats to see if they experience any side effects after the drug is administered. If the animal shows signs of negative effects after taking any type of medication, the FDA advises owners to immediately call their vet.
They can also report adverse drug reactions to the manufacturers' phone numbers below or directly to the FDA.
Merck Animal Health (Bravecto) – 800-224-5318
Animal Health Elanco (Credelio) – 888-545-5973
Merial (Nexgard) – (888) 637-4251
Zoetis (Simparica) – (888) 963-8471
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