What is sarolaner?
Sarolaner (brand name Simparica®) is used to treat and control flea and tick infestations in dogs. The dog ingests sarolaner, and the drug is distributed throughout the dog’s body. When fleas or ticks bite the dog, they are exposed to the drug and killed during their blood meal. Sarolaner is also used in combination products for both dogs and cats.
Sometimes, sarolaner is used to treat sarcoptic mange, demodectic mange, or ear mites. When sarolaner is prescribed for the treatment of mange, it is used off label (extra label). Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine.
“Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
How do I give sarolaner to my dog?
- Sarolaner is given by mouth in the form of a tablet. Give tablets as directed by your veterinarian.
- Give tablets with or without food or water. Make sure your dog consumes the entire dose.
- If your dog vomits after taking the drug on an empty stomach, try giving the next dose with food.
- If your dog vomits within one hour of receiving the dose, re-dose your pet.
- If your dog vomits one to three hours after dosing, it has absorbed some but not all the product. In this case, re-dosing is not recommended; check with your veterinarian for a backup topical medication for the month. Resume regular dosing the following month.
- If your dog vomits three or more hours after dosing, it has likely fully absorbed the medication.
- If you are unsure about re-dosing your dog, contact your veterinarian.
- If vomiting continues, contact your veterinarian.
This medication begins to kill fleas within four to eight hours, and starts to kill ticks in 12 hours. Improvement in clinical signs should follow.
How quickly does sarolaner kill fleas and ticks?
Most fleas will be killed within hours of biting a sarolaner-treated dog. You will likely continue to see fleas on a treated dog for some time, especially if you have a flea infestation in your home, as fleas continue to hatch and climb onto your dog in search of a blood meal. When the fleas die, it prevents reproduction and new eggs being laid in the home. The more fleas that climb onto your dog and are killed, the faster the infestation will be eliminated. To end the infestation more quickly, treat all animals in the home and the environment.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and start a new monthly dosing schedule. For example, if you forgot to give your pet their dose on June 1 and remember on June 18, give the dose on June 18 and start a new monthly schedule. You will give your pet their next dose on July 18. Do not give your dog two doses at once or give extra doses.
Are there any potential side effects?
Most dogs have very few side effects from sarolaner, provided it is given according to label recommendations and at the prescribed interval (or for off-label use, according to the directions given by your veterinarian). Sarolaner may cause the following side effects:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Decreased appetite
- Sleepiness
Serious adverse reactions are rare but may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving sarolaner and contact your veterinarian immediately:
- Lack of coordination
- Difficulty walking
- Trembling
- Shaking
Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This long-acting medication lasts for at least four to six weeks and may last longer in pets with kidney or liver disease.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
DO NOT USE sarolaner in:
- Dogs weighing under 2.8 lb (1.2 kg)
- Dogs less than six months old
DO NOT USE the single-agent sarolaner product in:
- Cats
USE WITH CAUTION in:
- Dogs with a history of seizures or other nervous system disorders
- Dogs that have not tested negative for heartworm disease
- Dogs that are breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs (safety has not been tested)
Are there any drug interactions that I should be aware of?
At this time, there are no known drug interactions reported with sarolaner. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, and herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any treatment.
Is any monitoring needed with this medication?
- Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
- At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.
How do I store sarolaner?
- Store sarolaner-based products in the original prescription packaging, in a cool, dry place, away from heat.
- Store at room temperature, below 86°F (30°C).
- Keep the container out of reach of children and pets.
What should I do in case of an emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms.
