FDA warns of potential neurological problems associated with Isoxazoline flea and tick products

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an alert to pet owners and veterinarians warning of potential neurological problems associated with Isoxazoline flea and tick products.

The approved drugs involved are Bravecto, Credelio, Nexgard and Simparica. The warning was issued on the chance animals may experience adverse reactions, including muscle tremors, ataxia, and seizures (which may occur in an animal with no prior history).

While most animals do fine when the product is properly applied, the FDA wants pet owners and their veterinarians to discuss all options available to provide safe but effective flea and tick control.

According to a PDF by the FDA Animal Veterinary Resources

What should I do if my pet has an adverse drug event while using an isoxazoline product?

• If your dog or cat experiences any adverse event while using an isoxazoline product, first consult your veterinarian.
• The FDA continues to monitor adverse drug event reports for these products and encourages pet owners and veterinarians to report adverse drug events. You can do this by reporting to the drugs’ manufacturers, who are required to report this information to the FDA, or by submitting a report directly to the FDA.
• To report suspected adverse drug events for these products and/or obtain a copy of the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) or for technical assistance, contact the appropriate manufacturers at the following phone numbers:
  • Merck Animal Health (Bravecto): 800-224-5318
  • Elanco Animal Health (Credelio): 888-545-5973
  • Merial (Nexgard): 888-637-4251
  • Zoetis (Simparica): 888-963-8471
• If you prefer to report directly to the FDA or want additional information about adverse drug experience reporting for animal drugs, see How to Report Animal Drug Side Effects and Product Problems.
• Pet owners and veterinarians who have additional questions can contact AskCVM@fda.hhs.gov or call 240-402-7002.

Please share this information with friends who use flea and tick control on their pets. It’s also a good idea to study up on any medication for anything before you use it on your pet. If there are warnings, it’s best to have that information to aid in making an informed decision.

This information began making the rounds in September 2018 but is timely now as well as people gear up to start flea and tick prevention before the pesty little critters get a head start when the weather warms up.

Most of the Isoxazoline products are listed for use on dogs. It’s important to remember not to use dog products on cats unless you’re dealing with the exact same medication percentages and know how to dose it down for use on cats. Some can be deadly even after one application.

I haven’t seen any cat flea and tick products with the drug. If any of the readers know of a cat product containing Isoxazoline, please give the brand in the comment section below. If you absolutely love a flea and tick product for cats, be sure to share than information as well.