Evaluation of spinosad for the oral treatment and control of flea infestations on dogs in Europe

摘要

Flea control remains an integral component of canine healthcare throughout much of Europe. The latest addition to the options available to veterinarians for this purpose is spinosad; a naturally occurring mixture of spinosyns A and D formed during a fermentation process. Spinosyns are tetracyclic macrolides with a unique ring system. They exhibit a novel mode of action primarily involving nicotinic acetylcholine receptor binding sites distinct from those targeted by other insecticides. Spinosad is presented for flea control as chewable tablets (Comfortis; Elanco). Preliminary studies indicated that effective control of Ctenocephalides felis on dogs could be achieved over a four-week period with dose rates of 30 mg spinosad/kg bodyweight or above. Aminimum dose of 45 mg/kg was selected for European laboratory studies to ensure compliance with local regulatory requirements.