Nexgard Spectra is an advanced parasitic treatment for dogs, combining flea, tick, and worm protection in a single chewable tablet that provides up to 30 days of protection. Safe for puppies as young as 8 weeks old and weighing at least 4 pounds, Nexgard Spectra starts killing fleas within 4 hours and achieves nearly 100% efficacy within 8 hours. It also provides excellent efficacy against several types of ticks, including black-legged ticks, American dog ticks, and lone star ticks, within 24 hours, and protects against heartworm, roundworms, and hookworms. Regular use ensures your dog remains free from harmful parasites.
Nexgard Spectra contains the active ingredients afoxolaner and milbemycin oxime, which inhibit the nervous system of parasites, leading to their rapid death. These ingredients are absorbed quickly, starting to work within hours to provide fast and reliable protection against a broad spectrum of parasites.
Additionally, Nexgard Spectra is safe for breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs, making it a versatile choice for dogs at different life stages. This ensures continuous protection without concern, offering peace of mind for pet owners seeking comprehensive parasite management.
Regular administration of Nexgard Spectra ensures that your dog remains healthy, free from the discomfort and potential diseases caused by fleas, ticks, and worms. Its extended protection period reduces the need for frequent dosing, making it a convenient and effective solution for busy pet owners.
Directions
- Check your dog’s weight before starting treatment to ensure the correct dosage.
- Give the Nexgard Spectra chewable tablet directly to your dog or mix it with their meal.
- Ensure your dog consumes the entire Nexgard Spectra dose.
- The minimum dose starts with 2.5 mg/kg of body weight for dogs.
- Do not split the tablet; administer it whole to maintain the correct dosage.
- Nexgard Spectra can begin at any time during the year to provide year-round protection.
Dosage
Administer Nexgard Spectra according to the following dosage table:
| Dog’s Weight (lbs) | Nexgard Spectra Tablet Strength (mg) | Pack Color |
| 4.0 – 8.0 | 9.4 mg afoxolaner / 1.9 mg milbemycin oxime | Purple |
| 8.1 – 16.0 | 18.8 mg afoxolaner / 3.8 mg milbemycin oxime | Blue |
| 16.1 – 33.0 | 37.5 mg afoxolaner / 7.5 mg milbemycin oxime | Green |
| 33.1 – 66.0 | 75 mg afoxolaner / 15 mg milbemycin oxime | Orange |
| 66.1 – 132.0 | 150 mg afoxolaner / 30 mg milbemycin oxime | Red |
Benefits
- Provides up to 30 days of protection with one chewable.
- Starts killing fleas within 4 hours, achieving nearly 100% efficacy within 8 hours.
- Offers excellent efficacy against several types of ticks within 24 hours.
- Protects against heartworm, roundworms, and hookworms.
- Safe for puppies as young as 8 weeks old and weighing at least 4 pounds.
- Safe for breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs, ensuring continuous protection across different life stages.
Safety
- Nexgard Spectra is strictly recommended for veterinary use only.
- Keep the product away from children.
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke while administering the product.
- After treatment, immediately wash your hands with soap and water.
- Store at a controlled room temperature of 59-86° F (15-30° C).
Warnings
- Before starting the treatment, consult your vet if your dog has a history of epilepsy, seizures, or other neurological disorders.
- If your dog experiences vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or decreased appetite, contact a vet immediately.
FAQs
Can you skip a month of NexGard Spectra?
It is not recommended to skip a month of NexGard Spectra. The product is designed for monthly administration to maintain continuous protection against parasites. If you miss a dose, administer it as soon as you remember and resume the monthly schedule from that date. Skipping doses may leave your dog vulnerable to parasites and reduce the overall effectiveness of the treatment.
Do you give NexGard Spectra before or after food?
NexGard Spectra can be given with or without food. However, administering it with food may help reduce the likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects. The chewable tablet is designed to be palatable, making it easy for most dogs to consume. If your dog is prone to stomach upset, giving NexGard Spectra with a meal might be beneficial.
Can NexGard SPECTRA for Dogs Be Safely Administered to Dogs with Epilepsy?
NexGard SPECTRA can generally be administered to dogs with epilepsy, but with caution. These medications belong to the isoxazoline class, which has been associated with neurologic adverse reactions, including seizures. If your dog has a history of epilepsy or seizures, consult your veterinarian before using these products to ensure it is safe for your dog’s specific condition.
Can I Use NexGard SPECTRA for Dogs if My Dog Is on Other Medications?
While specific studies on the concurrent use of NexGard SPECTRA with other medications have not been conducted, field studies have shown that NexGard SPECTRA is well tolerated by dogs receiving a variety of other medications. These include anesthetics, painkillers, dewormers, antibiotics, cardiac medications, diuretics, anti-inflammatories, sedatives, topical parasiticides, and vaccines. There are no specific warnings or contraindications on the product label regarding the use of NexGard SPECTRA with other medications. However, always consult your veterinarian before starting any new treatment to ensure it is safe for your dog.
Can this product cause itching or fur loss in dogs with sensitivities?
While uncommon, some dogs with sensitivities may experience skin reactions to NexGard Spectra. These reactions can include:
- Dry and flaky skin
- Itching
- Fur loss in rare cases
If your dog has a history of skin sensitivities or allergies, monitor them closely after administering NexGard Spectra. If you notice any signs of skin irritation, itching, or fur loss, consult your veterinarian promptly. They may recommend an alternative parasite prevention method or provide treatment for the skin reaction.