FDA warns of the possibility of neurological risks from flea and tick medication

The U.S Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning to all pet owners and veterinarians on the possibility of some brands of flea and tick medication causing adverse reactions in pets. In their press release statement, the regulatory body was quick to issue the alert to the potential of the products having negative neurological effects on dogs and cats treated with the drugs.

According to the FDA, animals receiving isoxazoline class drugs were exhibiting adverse effects such as seizures, muscle tremors, and ataxia at a high level. The brands falling into this category were listed as Bravecto, Nexgard, and Credelio. FDA found the key ingredient in the chews and the pills were containing the pesticide isoxazoline. Simparica, the monthly chewable tablet, was also on mention.

Why now?

Although the announcement comes as alarming to many pet parents, it remains surprising that the FDA had earlier approved the brands despite working with the isoxazoline compound. The release does acknowledge the FDA actions, but also confesses of the regulator carefully reviewing the data and compound study on Credelio, Bravecto, Nexgard, and Simparica prior to their approvals. They further indicate that the products are indeed safe and effective on the majority of the animals. Therefore, this ascertains that there is certainly little cause for concern.

However, the FDA is still on the lookout for any reports of possible adverse effects received from the veterinarians and the public. The agency pays close attention to adverse event reports, plus laboratory studies and requires the brands to report the events within 15 days of the happening. Already the brands are required to submit to the agency their vitro studies and clinical trials on a bi-annual basis for the initial two years from the approval and annually from there.

What next

Despite the low risks associated with the isoxazoline class drugs, FDA promises to continue monitoring any adverse drug event report associated with this brand of products.

“The FDA is working with the manufacturers of isoxazoline products to include new label information to that highlight neurologic events because these events were seen consistently across the isoxazoline class of products.”

Pet parents are also encouraged not to take into consideration that the benefits of these tick and flea products definitely outweigh the possibility of neurologic risks. Any concerns on the products should be addressed to your local vet for guidance on whether it’s appropriate for the pet.  

SOURCES: FDA, SIMPARICA , Credelio, Brave CTO, Parasite Pedia