Can NexGard make my dog feel sick?

Answered by Douglas Hiatt

NexGard is a flea and tick preventative medication for dogs that contains the active ingredient afoxolaner. It is designed to be safe and effective in protecting dogs from these parasites. While it is generally well-tolerated by dogs, there is a possibility of some dogs experiencing side effects.

In a 90-day field study involving 415 dogs, NexGard was administered and no serious adverse reactions were observed. This is reassuring and suggests that the medication is generally safe for dogs. However, it is important to note that individual dogs may still have different reactions to the medication.

The most common adverse reaction reported with NexGard is vomiting, with 17 dogs in the study experiencing this side effect. While vomiting can be concerning for dog owners, it is important to remember that it is a relatively mild and transient side effect. In most cases, the vomiting resolves on its own without any significant complications.

It is worth noting that vomiting can occur for various reasons in dogs, including factors unrelated to medication. Therefore, it is important to consider other potential causes if your dog experiences vomiting after taking NexGard. If the vomiting persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is recommended to consult with your veterinarian for further evaluation and guidance.

One of the advantages of NexGard is that it has minimal side effects compared to other flea and tick preventatives. This is particularly important for dogs with underlying health conditions or those who are more sensitive to medications. The safety of NexGard has been demonstrated in studies where dogs were administered up to 5 times the recommended dose without any serious adverse effects.

While NexGard is generally safe, it is always important to follow the recommended dosage instructions and consult with your veterinarian before starting any new medication for your dog. Your veterinarian is the best resource to determine if NexGard is appropriate for your dog and can provide guidance on potential side effects and how to monitor for them.

While NexGard can potentially cause vomiting in some dogs, it is generally considered safe and well-tolerated. The risk of serious adverse reactions is low, and the medication has been shown to be safe at higher doses. However, it is important to be aware of any changes in your dog’s health and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.