NexGard Spectra FAQs
Is NexGard Spectra available in the US?
NexGard Spectra is still pending approval from FDA but it has been approved by the European Medicines Agency and the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) in 2014.
What is NexGard Spectra?
NexGard Spectra is a monthly chew that protects your dog from fleas, ticks, mites, heartworm and intestinal worms in dogs.
Does NexGard Spectra cover mites?
Yes, it protects against dog follicle mites, itch mites and ear mites.
Does NexGard Spectra cover lungworm?
Yes, it does.
How long does NexGard Spectra last?
Each chew lasts a month.
How is NexGard Spectra different from NexGard?
NexGard Spectra contains an additional active ingredient, Milbemycin Oxime, which provides protection against heartworm and other intestinal parasites. The original NexGard controls fleas and ticks only.
How do I administer NexGard Spectra to my dog?
The beef flavored chew can be easily offered as a treat or added intact to food. Monitor your dog to ensure all pieces of the tablet have been swallowed. If part of the dose is rejected or lost, treat again with another full dose. NexGard Spectra does not need to be administered with food.
Can I administer more than one dose per month?
NexGard Spectra provides month-long protection against parasites, so it is not necessary or recommended to administer the chews more frequently. For continuous coverage, make sure you dose your dog on the same day each month.
Why do I see more fleas on my dog after dosing?
NexGard Spectra works by overstimulating a flea’s nervous system. During this process they become more active and rise to the top of your dog’s coat, where they can be seen more easily.
Is NexGard Spectra effective for heavy flea infestations?
NexGard Spectra helps to control flea infestations by killing fleas on your dog before they can lay eggs, breaking the breeding cycle. If your home is heavily infested, you may see pre-existing eggs and larvae hatch and develop in the weeks following the first dose, but these will be killed with subsequent doses.
Can I use NexGard Spectra with puppies?
NexGard Spectra is safe for use on puppies from 8 weeks of age, provided they have a minimum weight of 2 kg (4.4 lbs).
Can I use NexGard Spectra with pregnant dogs?
The safe use of NexGard Spectra has not been evaluated on pregnant or nursing dogs. For alternative parasite control, speak to your veterinarian.
My dog weighs more than 60 kg (135 lbs), how many tablets do they need?
For dogs over this size, use the appropriate combination of chewables. For example, a dog weighing 65 kg should be given one chew for 30.1-60 kg dogs, plus one chew for 3.6-7.5 kg dogs.
Can I divide NexGard Spectra tabs to give to more than one dog?
NexGard Spectra chews have been carefully formulated to provide the correct amount of active ingredients for your dog’s weight. In order to receive parasite protection, they must consume the entire chew. Do not give small dogs chews intended for larger dogs.
How soon can my dog swim or bathe after taking NexGard Spectra?
Unlike topical solutions, oral applications are not affected by bathing or swimming. Your dog is free to get wet immediately after dosing.
Can I give NexGard Spectra to my cat?
NexGard Spectra is designed specifically for canine use and should not be given to cats, other animals or humans.
Is this safe for dogs with food allergies?
NexGard Spectra contains no gluten and no animal proteins. It does contain soy and maize, so should be used with caution in dogs with sensitivity to these ingredients.
Can I use NexGard Spectra with other medications?
Extensive research has not been carried out on the interactions of NexGard Spectra with other drugs. However, the product label contains no specific warnings about contraindications with other products. If you have any concerns about your dog’s medications, speak to your veterinarian before dosing.
Can NexGard Spectra be given to heartworm-positive dogs?
No, this product has not been evaluated for safe use with heartworm positive dogs. Speak to your vet about getting your dog tested for heartworm before administering NexGard Spectra.
My NexGard Spectra is out of date, can I still use it?
No, it is not recommended that you administer NexGard Spectra after the expiry date.
Who makes NexGard Spectra?
NexGard Spectra is manufactured by Merial, which forms part of Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health.