Sarolaner

Sarolaner is a veterinary ectoparasiticide in the isoxazoline class used to control fleas and ticks in dogs. It is marketed as a monthly oral chewable tablet under the brand name Simparica and is also included in combination products such as Simparica Trio, which adds additional antiparasitic ingredients. It is approved for use in dogs in many countries and is not approved for human use.

Mechanism of action involves the selective inhibition of ligand-gated chloride channels in the nervous system of arthropods, specifically targets such as GABA- and glutamate-gated receptors. This leads to paralysis and death of fleas and ticks while exhibiting a wide margin of safety in dogs when used as directed.

Indications and administration include monthly dosing to prevent and treat intestinal and external infestations. The drug is given as a flavored chewable tablet and the dose is adjusted based on body weight. It provides rapid onset of action against fleas and ticks and can be used for routine parasite prophylaxis as part of an integrated parasite control program. Its spectrum covers common flea species and multiple tick species encountered in many regions.

Safety and adverse events are generally favorable for approved uses. Reported adverse effects in some dogs include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or dermatitis. Rare neurologic signs such as ataxia, tremors, or seizures have been reported in isolated cases, particularly in dogs with a history of seizures or concurrent neurologic conditions. Sarolaner should not be used in dogs with known hypersensitivity to isoxazolines, and it is not approved for use in cats. As with all medications, veterinarians should consider species-specific guidelines and potential drug interactions.