Side Effects of Frontline Plus for Dogs
Frontline Plus for Dogs is a topical medication that works against tick and flea infestations. Its active ingredients, S-methoprene, and fipronil act to not only kill all existing ticks and fleas but also work on flea eggs and larvae to make sure that they do not mature into adults. This medication is known to have 100% efficacy within the first 48 hours of application.
Apart from this, Frontline Plus is also preferred by many due to its long-lasting effect. Once applied, this medication can be effective for a whole month, even if you bathe your dog or take it for a swim. This is because fipronil accumulates in the animal’s sebaceous glands, from where it is consistently released onto the skin and coat.
Frontline Plus for Dogs is a safe medication to use and can be used on puppies and kittens as early as two days after birth. Although side effects to this medication are not common, they do at times occur and are mostly related to the alcohol that is used as a solvent.
Frontline Plus for Dogs: Side Effects to Look For
If side effects occur following the use of Frontline Plus for dogs, they would generally be related to effects on the skin. There are also side effects that have at times been seen to be neurological or mental.
Skin-Related Side Effects
An immediate reaction your dog could have following the application of the medication is skin irritation. Itching and hair loss at the site of application have also been reported in some dogs. Skin irritation usually manifests in the form of redness or skin discoloration and itching. Most often, the side effect is temporary and subsides in a few days. However, if the irritation does not subside or appears to be more severe than before, you should immediately consult your veterinarian.
When skin irritation occurs, your dog will try to scratch the area. This will aggravate the condition. So, keep an eye on your pet and prevent any scratching because scratching will lead to the medication spreading to their paws and other areas of their body, which they can lick. Scratching could also make the area bleed, which in turn would lead to the medication entering the bloodstream.
Neurologic Side Effects
Some of the neurologic side effects could include:
- Increased drooling
- Over-sensitivity to noise, light, or touch
- Becoming quiet and appearing depressed
- Aggression and anxiety
- Rapid heart rate
- Breathing or respiratory effects
- Panting and vomiting have also been seen in some dogs, although it passes quickly
If you see any of these symptoms persisting in your pet, consult your veterinarian immediately.
Frontline Plus for Dogs: Effects on Human and Other Species
Side effects on humans are rare. The most commonly reported effects are skin, mouth, and eye irritation. If this occurs, immediately wash the affected area with lots of clean water. The best way to avoid this effect is to apply Frontline Plus for dogs just before bedtime and allow the medication to completely dry overnight before cuddling the dog.
Do not allow your dog to sleep in your bed after application of the medication. Although severe reactions are extremely rare, a human being could experience vomiting, agitation, and seizures. If such effects occur, you should immediately consult your physician.
About its effects on other species, the first thing to remember is to not apply Frontline Plus for dogs on cats. This medication is available specifically for cats. This medication could prove to be lethal for rabbits and aquatic species, so take adequate care to prevent such species from coming in contact with the medication.
