Sarolaner
Also known as: Stronghold Plus · Simparica Trio · Sarolanerum
Reviewed by the VetSheet Veterinary TeamUpdated Apr 5, 2026Evidence-based veterinary reference
Doses are a clinical reference for licensed veterinary professionals. Always confirm against the current label and the individual patient.
Dosing by species
🌎 NA — North America🌍 EU — Europe
Dogs
| Indication | Dose | Route | Frequency | Duration | Region |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Treatment of fleas, ticks, ear mites (Otodectes cynotis), demodicosis (Demodex canis), and Sarcoptes scabiei | 2-4 mg/kg | PO | monthly | Monthly (duration depends on parasite targeted) | 🌍 EU |
- Treatment of fleas, ticks, ear mites (Otodectes cynotis), demodicosis (Demodex canis), and Sarcoptes scabiei: Administer every month.
Cats
| Indication | Dose | Route | Frequency | Duration | Region |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Treatment of fleas, ticks, ear mites, biting lice, adult roundworms, adult hookworms, and prevention of heartworm disease | 1 mg/kg sarolaner (with 6 mg/kg selamectin) | topical | monthly | Monthly | 🌍 EU |
- Treatment of fleas, ticks, ear mites, biting lice, adult roundworms, adult hookworms, and prevention of heartworm disease: Administer monthly using the combination spot-on product.
Doses are a clinical reference for licensed veterinary professionals. Always confirm against the current label and the individual patient.
Overview
Sarolaner is an isoxazoline-class ectoparasiticide used for the treatment and prevention of flea, tick, and mite infestations in dogs and cats. It is available as a standalone oral tablet for dogs (Simparica) and in combination with selamectin as a topical spot-on for cats (Stronghold Plus).
Important: Parasites need to start feeding on the host to become exposed to sarolaner; therefore, the transmission of infectious parasite-borne diseases cannot be completely excluded.
Clinical Pearl: Isoxazolines have revolutionized the treatment of demodicosis and sarcoptic mange due to their high efficacy and ease of use. However, as a class effect, they should be used with caution in animals with a known history of seizures or neurologic disorders.
Mechanism of action
Sarolaner acts at ligand-gated chloride channels, specifically those gated by the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate.
Binding to these receptors → blocks pre- and post-synaptic transfer of chloride ions across cell membranes → causes uncontrolled neuromuscular activity → leads to the death of the parasite. It has highly selective toxicity for arthropods compared to mammals.
Safety & warnings
Contraindications
- Dogs < 8 weeks of age
- Dogs < 1.3 kg body weight
- Cats < 8 weeks of age
- Cats < 1.25 kg body weight
- Known hypersensitivity to the active substance
Adverse effects
- Mild gastrointestinal signs (vomiting, diarrhea)
- Mild pruritus or alopecia at the site of application (spot-on product)
- Neurologic signs (tremors, ataxia, seizures) - rare class effect of isoxazolines
Precautions
Neurologic Warning: Use with caution in dogs and cats with a history of seizures or other neurologic disorders.
Normal safety and handling precautions should be observed. Wash hands after applying topical formulations.
Drug interactions
Sarolaner is highly bound to plasma proteins and might compete with other highly bound drugs, potentially increasing free fractions.
Potential competition for plasma protein binding sites.
No interactions observed when co-administered.
No interactions observed when co-administered.
No interactions observed when co-administered.
Monitoring
- Efficacy of parasite control
- Monitor for gastrointestinal upset after administration
- Monitor for neurological signs in susceptible individuals
Pharmacokinetics
Half-life
Absorption
Well absorbed following oral administration in dogs.
Distribution
Highly bound to plasma proteins (>99%). Widely distributed to tissues.
Metabolism
Minimal hepatic metabolism.
Elimination
Primarily eliminated unchanged in feces via biliary excretion.
Overdose
Overdose may increase the risk of adverse effects, particularly gastrointestinal signs (vomiting, diarrhea) and potentially neurological signs (tremors, ataxia, seizures). Treatment is symptomatic and supportive as there is no specific antidote.
Available products
Formulations
- Oral tablets: 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, 80 mg, 120 mg
- Topical spot-on solution (combination with selamectin for cats)
Veterinary
- Simparica 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, 80 mg, 120 mg chewable tablets for dogs
- Stronghold Plus spot-on solution for cats (sarolaner + selamectin)
- Simparica Trio chewable tablets for dogs (sarolaner + moxidectin + pyrantel)
Regulatory status
Available as Simparica, Simparica Trio, and Revolution Plus (selamectin/sarolaner).
POM-V classification.
POM-V classification.
No regulatory data for: 🇭🇰 HK · 🇹🇼 TW · 🇯🇵 JP · 🇰🇷 KR · 🇦🇺 AU
Storage & stability
Store in the original packaging at room temperature. Keep out of reach of children and animals.
Client information
Administer the medication exactly as prescribed by your veterinarian.
- Oral tablets (Dogs): Can be given with or without food. Ensure the dog consumes the entire dose.
- Spot-on (Cats): Apply the liquid to the skin at the base of the neck, in front of the shoulder blades, where the cat cannot lick it off. Do not massage it in.
Important: Ticks and fleas must attach to your pet and start feeding to be killed by the drug. You may still see dead or dying ticks on your pet's coat. Contact your vet if your pet experiences vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or any uncoordinated movements.
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.