Trifexis for Dogs
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PetMD’s medications content is written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer common questions about how medications work, their side effects, and what species they are prescribed for. This content should not replace advice from your veterinarian.
Key Takeaways
- Trifexis is used in dogs to prevent and treat flea infestations, adult hookworm, adult roundworm, and adult whipworm, and to prevent heartworm disease.
- Trifexis is FDA-approved for use in dogs.
- This medication targets the nervous systems of fleas and parasites, eventually killing them and ridding your dog of the infestation.
- It is given with food once a month.
What Is Trifexis Used for in Dogs?
Trifexis is a chewable prescription medication used to prevent and treat:
It is also used to prevent heartworm disease.
Is Trifexis FDA-Approved for Dogs?
Trifexis is FDA-approved for use in dogs.
Speak with your veterinarian about whether Trifexis is right for your pet.
Trifexis Considerations for Dogs
Dogs should be tested for existing heartworm infection before taking Trifexis.
Trifexis is for dogs 8 weeks or older and weighing at least 5 pounds.
How Does Trifexis Work in Dogs?
Trifexis has two active ingredients:
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Spinosad: Spinosad works by targeting the flea’s nervous system. It begins to kill fleas in about 30 minutes and kills up to 100% of fleas on dogs within four hours.
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Milbemycin oxime: Milbemycin targets the nervous system of heartworms, roundworms, and hookworms. It affects the electrical activity within their nervous system, causing muscle paralysis and death.
How Do You Give Trifexis to Dogs?
Follow the directions on the drug label or as provided by your veterinarian.
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Trifexis is a chewable tablet and is administered once a month with food.
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For heartworm prevention, the medication should be given once monthly for at least three months after exposure to mosquitoes.
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If your dog vomits within an hour of taking the drug, another full dose is recommended.
What Happens If You Miss a Dose of Trifexis?
Speak with your veterinarian about what to do if a dose is missed.
Generally, your vet will advise you to administer a dose with food as soon as you remember and then continue a monthly schedule from that date.
In most cases, you should not give extra or double doses.
What Are the Side Effects of Trifexis in Dogs?
Vomiting is the most common side effect seen with Trifexis. Giving the medication with food can help the body better absorb it and curb any vomiting.
Other side effects include:
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Red ears or skin
Human Side Effects
Humans should never take medication prescribed for pets, and pets should not be given medication prescribed for humans. Dosages often differ significantly.
If you accidentally ingest a pet medication, seek medical attention or call Poison Control at 800-222-1222.
Monitoring Your Pet
Before giving your dog Trifexis, make sure they are tested for existing heartworm infection.
No specific monitoring is required for this medication, but your veterinarian may recommend routine testing depending on your dog’s individual needs, other medications that may be prescribed, and/or the issue that initially caused your dog to be placed on this medication.
When Should You Call Your Veterinarian?
Call your veterinarian if you see any of the following, or if you have additional questions or concerns about the use of canine Trifexis:
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Severe side effects occur
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Your pet’s condition worsens or does not improve
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You suspect an overdose
What Happens If a Pet Overdoses on Trifexis?
An overdose of Trifexis typically causes symptoms similar to the listed side effects including vomiting, drooling, and tremors. Your dog may also experience coughing.
If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency veterinary care or contact an animal poison control center (consultation fees may apply):
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Pet Poison Helpline: 855-764-7661
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ASPCA Animal Poison Control: 888-426-4435
How Should Trifexis Be Stored for Dogs?
Keep the following storage tips in mind for this medication:
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Trifexis should be stored at controlled room temperatures between 68–77 F (20–25 C). Brief exposure to temperatures 59–86 F (15–30 C) is acceptable.
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Keep the medication in the provided blister packs until ready for use to protect the chews from moisture and light.
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Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Trifexis for Dogs FAQs
Is NexGard the same as Trifexis?
No, NexGard is not the same as Trifexis.
Trifexis contains the active ingredients spinosad and milbemycin oxime. It treats and prevents flea infestations, adult hookworm, adult roundworm, and adult whipworm infections. It can also be used to prevent heartworm infections.
NexGard contains the active ingredient afoxolaner, which treats and prevents infestations from fleas and certain tick species.
Can you get Trifexis without a prescription?
No, you cannot get Trifexis without a prescription. Your dog must be evaluated by a veterinarian, who can then prescribe Trifexis for your dog.
How much does Trifexis usually cost?
The cost of Trifexis depends on your dog’s weight, but generally you should plan to spend at least $100 on a six-month supply.
No vet writer or qualified reviewer has received any compensation from the manufacturer of the medication as part of creating this article. All content is sourced from public references or the manufacturer.
