Lotilaner
Lotilaner is a systemic ectoparasiticide belonging to the isoxazoline class. It is used for the treatment and prevention of flea and tick infestations in dogs and cats. **Clinical Pearl:** Isoxazolines are highly effective and have a rapid onset of action, but they require the parasite to attach to the host and start feeding in order to be exposed to the active ingredient.
Mechanism: Lotilaner acts as an antagonist at **gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-gated chloride channels** and, to a lesser extent, **glutamate-gated chloride channels** (GluCls) in insects and acarines. Binding blocks the transfer of chloride ions across cell membranes → uncontrolled neuromuscular activity → paralysis → death of the parasite.
Dosing by species
- Parasite control (fleas and ticks) · 1 tablet of appropriate size (56.25 mg, 112.5 mg, 225 mg, 450 mg, or 900 mg) based on body weight · PO · monthly · Ongoing · Administer with food or within 30 minutes of feeding.
- Parasite control (fleas and ticks) · 1 tablet of appropriate size (12 mg or 48 mg) based on body weight · PO · monthly · Ongoing · Administer with food or within 30 minutes of feeding.
Doses are a clinical reference for licensed veterinary professionals. Always confirm against the current label and the individual patient.
Routes of administration
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to the active substance
- Puppies less than 8 weeks of age or weighing less than 1.3 kg (dog product)
- Kittens less than 8 weeks of age or weighing less than 0.5 kg (cat product)
Adverse effects
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Anorexia
- Neurological signs (tremors, ataxia, seizures) - rare
Monitoring
- Clinical efficacy (absence of fleas and ticks)
- Adverse neurological signs (rare)
Overdose
Lotilaner is generally well tolerated even at multiple times the maximum recommended dose. Overdose may cause mild, transient gastrointestinal signs such as vomiting or diarrhea. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
VetSheet drug reference is intended for licensed veterinary professionals as a clinical decision-support aid, not a substitute for professional judgement or the manufacturer’s current label.