Frontline Flea Drops for Dogs

Fleas and ticks pose a health problem for dogs. They cause discomfort and itching, and spread diseases and parasites.There are a number of prescription and over-the-counter flea- and tick-control products available to consumers. It can be tough to discern the differences between these products and choose the one that is right for your dog. Frontline flea drops are just one of many options available to pet owners seeking to establish a regular flea-control regimen for their dog or puppy.

  1. Identification

    • Frontline is a brand-name prescription topical flea- and tick-control product manufactured by the Merial company. Frontline contains the active ingredients fipronil and S-methoprene. When applied to the dog's fur, fipronil pools in the dog's natural skin oils and in the hair follicles of the fur. Released from these areas over time, fipronil blocks an insect's central nervous system from excreting or receiving the chemical chlorine, resulting in the flea or tick's neurons misfiring and causing an overload of sensations that lead to the equivalent of a seizure and ultimately, death. S-methoprene is an insect growth regulator (IGR) that prevents flea eggs from hatching.

    Time Frame

    • Frontline's manufacturers claim that it kills 100 percent of fleas within 12 hours of application. Within hours, it renders flea eggs incapable of hatching. Frontline is not effective against flea larvae, but upon reaching adulthood, any larvae are killed before they have the ability to lay new eggs. Frontline kills ticks within minutes. Frontline flea drops are effective against fleas and ticks for a period of up to one month, eliminating the need for weekly flea baths, irritating flea collars or costly repeat applications of weekly flea medications.

    Benefits

    • As of May 2003, Frontline flea drops are approved for use in pregnant and nursing dogs by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Because it is oil based, Frontline is relatively water-proof, meaning you can take your dog swimming or bathe your dog after applying Frontline flea drops. In addition to these benefits, Frontline is shown to help reduce infestations of chewing lice and aid in the treatment of sarcoptic mange. There are no known interactions between Frontline and any other drugs, according to manufacturer Merial.

    Considerations

    • Frontline is not indicated for use in dogs under the age of eight weeks. Dogs younger than this do not have a fully developed immune system or neurological system and may not be able to handle the chemicals in Frontline flea drops. Some dogs are sensitive or allergic to the ingredients included in Frontline and may develop an adverse reaction.

    Warning

    • Excessive salivation is the most common side effect associated with Frontline, and usually resolves on its own within four hours of application. Another common, but mild, side effect is irritation at the application site. Speak to a licensed veterinary care professional if you feel your dog is suffering from an adverse reaction after applying Frontline topical flea drops. Signs of an allergic reaction, overdose or adverse reaction include lethargy; ataxia (lack of muscular coordination); anorexia; swelling of the face, throat or paws; rash; hives; lack of thirst; seizure; coma; and death.