Spinosad

Spinosad In Dogs & Cats: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

• Activation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors.

Uses of Spinosad

• Treatment and prevention of flea infestations.

Dose of Spinosad in Dogs and Cats

Dogs:

• Fleas: 45–70 mg/kg p.o. q28d with or immediately after food.

Cats:

• Fleas: 50–75 mg/kg p.o. q28d with or immediately after food.

Side Effects of Spinosad in Dogs and Cats

• Vomiting occurs occasionally.
• Rare side effects include lethargy, diarrhoea, anorexia, ataxia and seizures.

Contraindications of Spinosad in Dogs and Cats

• Avoid in dogs and cats weighing <1.2 kg or <14 weeks of age as accurate dosing not possible.
• The safety of spinosad/milbemycin in dogs with an MDR1 mutation has not been
  demonstrated and these dogs may be at increased risk of adverse effects.

Some Notes:

• This is a P-glycoprotein substrate, therefore, use with caution if combined with other substrate drugs (e.g. digoxin, doxorubicin).
• Do not use it with macrocyclic lactones (e.g. the avermectins).
• It acts on both larvae and adult fleas, causing a short lag phase after administration due to the emergence of adult fleas from pupae in the environment.
• If used for flea allergy dermatitis treatment, it is recommended to combine with an insect growth regulator.
• Administration with food is advised.
• Caution: Avoid administering spinosad/milbemycin (Trifexis) for more than 6 consecutive months in a year.
• Use with caution in epileptic animals.
• Safety during pregnancy, lactation, and breeding is unknown.