First long-acting flea and tick treatment is FDA-approved for dogs

The FDA has approved fluralaner for extended-release injectable suspension (Bravecto Quantum; Merck Animal Health), for protection against fleas and ticks in dogs. The drug is indicated for canines ages 6 months and older, and is the first long-lasting product approved by the agency for flea and tick protection in dogs aged 8 to 12 months.1

Fluralaner is an isoxazoline antiparasitic drug. Several products containing isoxazolines are approved for the treatment and control of fleas and certain ticks in dogs and cats, according to the FDA. However, these products generally provide protection against fleas and ticks for 1 month.1 Fluralaner for extended-release injectable suspension is also FDA-approved for the treatment and control of lone star tick infestations for 8 months in canines ages 6 months and older.2

The product is approved in more than 50 other countries. It was first approved in Australia and New Zealand in 2023 and in the European Union the following year.3

Christine Royal, DVM, vice president, companion animal and equine business unit, Merck Animal Health, said the company takes pride in its leadership with long-acting preventive parasiticides. “[We] are excited to offer a convenient option that gives dogs year-round1 comprehensive protection from fleas and ticks in one easy injection they can receive from their veterinarian,” Royal said in a news release.3 “The approval of Bravetco Quantum sets a new standard in pet care by providing veterinarians and pet parents with a safe and effective option when it comes to flea and tick protection for dogs.”

Pet owners are encouraged to consult with a veterinarian to determine whether a product in the isoxazoline class is appropriate for their pet. Veterinarians should review a patient’s medical history before deciding on a drug therapy. 1,2

Isoxazoline products have been associated with neurologic adverse reactions, including muscle tremors, ataxia, and seizures in some dogs and cats, according to the FDA. Other adverse reactions observed in dogs and cats include lethargy, decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, elevated liver enzymes, pruritus, lumps or swelling at the injection site, and a hypersensitivity reaction. However, these products are commonly used, and the agency has determined they are safe for most dogs and cats.1,2

Veterinary teams should also advise dog owners about using fluralaner for extended-release injectable suspension in breeding dogs and define the appropriate treatment interval (8 vs 12 months) based on the species of ticks the dog is likely to encounter.1

“Though people often think of flea and tick season during the summer months, studies have shown that while fleas and ticks are most active from early spring through the fall, they can be a threat year-round, especially knowing it only takes a few warm days for ticks to become active,” Frank Guerino, PhD, associate vice president of global pharmaceutical development, Merck Animal Health, said in a news release.3 “With Bravetco Quantum, a single dose provides year-long, continuous protection, simplifying care for both pet owners and veterinarians, and promoting compliance.”

Fluralaner for extended-release injectable suspension is available by prescription from a licensed veterinarian, who then administers the drug.1 Merck Animal Health expects the therapy to become available on the veterinary market by August 2025, through clinics and hospitals.3

References

1. FDA approves first long-acting flea and tick treatment for dogs. FDA. July 10, 2025. Accessed July 10, 2025. https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/cvm-updates/fda-approves-first-long-acting-flea-and-tick-treatment-dogs?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
2. Freedom of Information Summary: New Animal Drug Application. FDA. July 10, 2025.
3. FDA approves Bravetco Quantum (fluralaner for extended-release injectable suspension) from Merck Animal Health. News release. Merck Animal Health. July 10, 2025. Accessed July 11, 2025.