Frontline Plus Generic

Description

Frontline Plus Generic is a topical ectoparasiticide for dogs and cats, used to control flea, tick, and biting lice infestations. It contains fipronil and S-methoprene, which work together to kill adult fleas and prevent the development of flea eggs, larvae, and pupae for up to 8 weeks. The product also treats and prevents tick infestations, including Ixodes ricinus, Dermacentor variabilis, Dermacentor reticulatus, and Rhipicephalus sanguineus, with efficacy lasting up to 4 weeks. In addition, it treats infestations with biting lice (Trichodectes canis) and helps manage conditions like flea allergy dermatitis.

Directions

Apply Frontline Plus Generic topically to dry skin at the base of the neck in front of the shoulder blades, parting the hair so the medication touches the skin directly. Hold the pipette upright, tap to ensure contents are in the main body, snap off the tip, and empty the entire pipette onto the skin in one spot.

Dosage by Dog’s Weight:

• 2–10 kg: 1 × 0.67 ml pipette
• 10–20 kg: 1 × 1.34 ml pipette
• 20–40 kg: 1 × 2.68 ml pipette
• 40 kg: 1 × 4.02 ml pipette

Use one pipette per month, matching the dog's weight to the correct pipette size, and do not apply more frequently than every 4 weeks. Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old. Temporary clumping or greasiness of hair may occur at the application site; monitor for irritation

For cats, use one pipette of 0.5 ml per application. This delivers the minimum recommended dose of 5 mg/kg fipronil and 6 mg/kg (S)-methoprene. Apply the solution topically to the skin at the base of the neck, parting the fur so the liquid contacts the skin directly. Do not use more than one pipette per cat per month.

Always follow the instructions listed on the package or consult a veterinarian for guidance.

Ingredients

Frontline Plus contains the active ingredients Fipronil and S-methoprene.

Contraindications

Avoid giving this medication in dogs and cats in which the following apply:

• Puppies or kittens under 8 weeks old
• Illness (systemic disease, fever)
• Recovery from illness
• Use in rabbits (risk of severe reaction or death)
• Use in non-target species
• Allergy to active substances or any excipients

Cautions

• Before giving this medication, you may want to consult a veterinarian about the following:
• Any existing health conditions
• Any allergies
• A list of all medications currently being taken

• Avoid bathing or swimming for at least two days after applying Frontline Plus. Bathing more than once a week can reduce how long the treatment protects against fleas.
• Some shampoos may shorten flea protection to about five weeks, though weekly use of chlorhexidine shampoo didn’t affect results in one study. Even with proper use, a few ticks may still attach, so disease transmission isn’t fully ruled out.
• Fleas often live in bedding, carpets, and furniture. Clean these areas thoroughly and vacuum regularly, especially at the start of treatment or during heavy infestations.
• All pets in the household should be treated at the same time with an appropriate product to control the spread of fleas or ticks.
• Avoid getting the product in your pet’s eyes, and apply it where they can’t lick it. Keep animals from licking each other after application.
• Weigh your pet accurately before using the product to ensure the correct dose. Keep pipettes sealed until use and dispose of them right away.
• The product can irritate skin, eyes, or mouth. Wash your hands with soap and water if exposed, and rinse your eyes with clean water if needed.
• If swallowed, seek medical help immediately and bring the product packaging. People with allergies to insecticides or alcohol should avoid contact.
• Wait until the application site is fully dry before touching your pet. Children should not play with treated pets until the area is dry.
• Apply in the evening so it can dry overnight. Treated animals should not sleep in the same bed as people, especially children, right after application.
• Don’t eat, drink, or smoke while applying Frontline Plus. Wash your hands afterward.
• Keep dogs out of natural water sources for two days after treatment, as the ingredients can harm aquatic life. Avoid contact with painted or varnished surfaces, as the solution may damage them.

Side Effects

Side effects with Frontline Plus are rare, but some animals may experience temporary skin reactions at the application site, such as redness, itching, hair loss, or discoloration. In some cases, general itching or hair shedding has also been reported.

Occasionally, dogs and cats may show signs like excessive drooling, mild vomiting, or temporary changes in behavior such as sensitivity or lethargy. These effects are usually short-lived and may occur if the dog or cat licks the application site. If any unusual symptoms appear, contact your veterinarian for advice.

References

1. Frontline Plus Spot-On Dog Summary of Product Characteristics. Berkshire, UK: Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health UK Limited; 2021.
2. Frontline Plus Spot-On Cat Summary of Product Characteristics. Berkshire, UK: Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health UK Limited; 2022.

About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

An honors graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Sison started his pharmacy career in a community setting, extending his services to hospitals and clinics over time. He has also worked in medication therapy management, advising patients on proper medication use for their chronic health conditions. Read More....