How Long Do Bravecto Side Effects Last?

Fleas and ticks are a serious threat to our canine companions.

Not only are they irritating when crawling across their skin, but their presence can lead to medical complications down the line.

When exploring the best flea and tick prevention for your pup, you will likely come across Bravecto.

So what is this medication, and is it safe for our canine friends?

In this article we will go into the details of Bravecto side effects in dogs, and help you better understand this popular flea and tick preventative.

What Is Bravecto Used For?

Bravecto is a chewable flea and tick medication for our canine and feline companions.

Bravecto offers protection against crawling critters for 12 weeks using the ectoparasiticide named fluralaner.

Bravecto can kill current flea and tick infestations, prevent future fleas and ticks from making a home on your dog, and can even treat skin mite infections as well.

The main use of Bravecto is for preventative measures, but it is now becoming a first line of defense for dogs with Demodectic mange as well.

Bravecto also comes in topical form, but uses the same active ingredients to target fleas and ticks.

The liquid seeps into your dog’s skin as soon as it is applied, and quickly mixes with the fluid within their tissue.

How Long Does Bravecto Last?

Once you give your dog one dose of Bravecto, they will be protected against fleas and ticks for 12 weeks.

This is why many dog owners have turned to Bravecto for adequate protection, as it eliminates the need to offer medication each month.

Bravecto chewable tablets also eliminate most user error, as some topical medications can be washed away with baths or improper application.

Because Bravecto is a one time treat, this makes for easy administration.

How Long Does It Take For Bravecto To Work?

Bravecto starts killing fleas within 2 hours, and kills ticks within 12 hours.

Once your pup eats their Bravecto treat or removes their topical gel, the ingredients immediately make their way to the fluid within your dog’s tissue.

Once the active ingredients are present in the tissue, this kills all fleas and ticks that bite your dog.

Because Bravecto reaches the fluid in the tissue, this means it not only prevents future flea and tick infestations, but also current ones.

Once the crawling critters bite your pup’s skin, they will soon be killed by the ingredients they consume with each bite.

What Are The Possible Side Effects Of Bravecto?

While Bravecto is extremely safe, there are a few side effects to be aware of.

The side effects vary based on which Bravecto method you choose, so let’s discuss each route of administration in detail.

Oral Bravecto Side Effects

• Vomiting
• Diminished appetite
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Seizures (though incredibly rare)

Topical Bravecto Side Effects

• Vomiting
• Alopecia (balding)
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Diminished appetite
• Seizures (though incredibly rare)

These potential side effects are based on a study published by Merck, where they compared the results of dogs offered Bravecto against dogs that did not have the medication.

It’s important to note that many of these side effects were exhibited in the dogs that were not offered the medication as well, meaning some of the side effects may not be tied to Bravecto itself.

Bravecto has also been rigorously studied and tested in high doses to ensure that there is a wide safety margin.

It is so trusted that it is approved in dogs and cats 6 months and older, as well as in pregnant and lactating dogs.

Do All Dogs Experience Side Effects With Bravecto?

Potential side effects of a medication should always be discussed, but it does not mean your pup will experience them.

Most dogs will tolerate Bravecto without any complications whatsoever, no matter which administration method you choose.

However, if you think your dog is experiencing side effects from Bravecto, it’s best to contact your vet immediately.

This is especially important if they vomit in the first 3 hours of giving the oral dose, as your vet will need to instruct you on the best time to re-dose them.

How Long Should Side Effects With Bravecto Last?

If your dog does happen to experience side effects after taking Bravecto, most side effects typically last anywhere from 2-6 hours.

This information is based on studies that have been performed on Bravecto use, as well as my personal experience in practice.

The most common side effects that I have noticed in previous patients is vomiting and diarrhea, both of which usually resolve within a few hours.

It also seems like most dogs that vomit after taking Bravecto had not eaten before taking the medication, so it is very possible that a full stomach helps to prevent any complications.

The Bravecto label states that your dog should take the oral chew with food, so this is likely the most effective tip in preventing possible GI upset.

Final Thoughts

Bravecto is a wonderful flea and tick preventative with minimal side effects.

Be sure to review the information that we discussed above, and you can better determine if this medication is right for your pup.

Amber LaRock

My name is Amber. I am a dedicated animal lover that turned my passion into my career. I am a Licensed Vet Tech with 12 years of experience in veterinary medicine, but I recently took my career online to help spread accurate information on animal care. With how vast the online world is, I have a strong desire to ensure that the reader always walks away with helpful pet advice. With the experience I’ve gained from my time in this field, I have been able to travel the world, offering my services to as many animal rescues as I can find. If I am not at my laptop, or back home visiting family, you can find me somewhere in the world, cuddling every furry friend that I can find! More About Us