Simparica vs Frontline Plus
Pet parents seem to have an endless array of choices to make for their pups. An important decision is which flea and tick treatment to use for your dog. Two excellent options are Simparica Tablets and Frontline Plus. While the choices might be overwhelming, there are some similarities and differences to consider when selecting one of these medications. We’ve put together a table and some additional information to help you with your decision.
What are the differences between Simparica and Frontline Plus?
Although both of these treatments are great options, they are also very different from one another. Firstly, Simparica is a once-monthly, oral flea and tick treatment containing Saroloner as an active ingredient. Frontline Plus is a once-monthly, topical flea and tick treatment that combines Fipronil and (S)-Methoprene. Simparica kills both fleas and ticks, while Frontline Plus is effective against fleas, ticks, flea eggs and larvae and lice. Simparica kills fleas within 3 hours and kills ticks within 8 hours. Frontline Plus kills fleas within 12 hours and ticks within 48.
Another notable difference between these two medications is that Simparica is formulated for use in dogs ages 6 months and up, and weighing at least 2.8 pounds. Frontline Plus is safe for use in dogs as young as 8 weeks. Simparica is not approved for use in lactating, pregnant, or breeding dogs, while Frontline Plus is safe for use in these dogs. Finally, Simparica is available only with a prescription from your veterinarian. Frontline Plus may be purchased without a prescription.
What should I consider when choosing Simparica or Frontline Plus for my dog?
Because there are several differences between these two treatments, a number of factors come into play:
- Do you prefer an orally-administered treatment like Simparica, or would a topical treatment like Frontline Plus be best for your dog?
- Does your dog require treatment for lice, flea eggs, and flea larvae, or do they just need to be treated for adult fleas and ticks? Frontline Plus offers added protection for those dogs who need it, but your dog may only require the flea and tick treatment provided by Simparica.
- How old is your dog? If your dog is over 6 months old, you can choose either of these wonderful options. However, if you have a puppy between the ages of 8 weeks and 6 months, Frontline Plus is a better fit until your dog is old enough to try Simparica.
- Is your dog pregnant, breeding, or lactating? If so, you will need to opt for Frontline Plus until your dog no longer falls under any of these categories.
- Do you need an over-the-counter, more affordable option, or would you prefer the approval and monitoring that come with a prescription from your veterinarian? Frontline Plus is available without a prescription and is the more affordable option, and Simparica requires a prescription.
No matter which treatment you choose, you should always consult your veterinarian before starting your dog on any new medication. If you have any concerns or questions, feel free to reach out to the GiantEaglePetRx pharmacists. They are available and ready to answer all the questions pet parents might have about flea and tick treatments!
Feature | Simparica | Frontline Plus |
---|---|---|
Kills Fleas | Yes | Yes |
Repels Fleas | No | No |
Kills Flea Eggs and Larvae | No | Yes |
Kills Ticks | Yes | Yes |
Repels Ticks | No | No |
Repels Mosquitoes | No | No |
Prevents Heartworm | No | No |
Other Parasites | No | Treats lice |
Waterproof | Yes since taken orally | Yes |
How Long to work | Kills fleas within 3 hours and ticks within 8 hours. | 12 hours to kill fleas and 48 hours to kill ticks |
Taste | Liver | N/A |
Active Ingredient | Sarolaner | Fipronil and (S)-Methoprene |
RX Required | Yes | No |
Application Type | Chewable Tablet | Topical |
Dosing | 1 tablet per month | 1 topical application per month |
Age | Dogs 6 months and older weighing at least 2.8 pounds | Dogs 8 weeks and older |
Manufacturer | Zoetis | Boehringer Ingelheim |
Safety | Not approved for breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs. | Breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs may use. |
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