1800PetMeds

Activyl Tick Plus

Learn More

Fiproguard Max - Generic To Parastar Plus

Learn More

Program

Learn More

Kills Fleas

Repels Fleas

Kills Flea eggs and Larvae

Prevents Development

Kills Ticks

Repels Ticks

Kills and/or Repels Mosquitoes

Prevents Heartworm

Other Parasites Information

Eliminates infestations with chewing lice, aids in the control of sarcoptic mange infestation

Waterproof (shampooing once a week can reduce effectiveness)

Not Applicable

Safe for pregnant or nursing Pets

How long does it take to work

Reapply every 30 days.

Starts working in 1 hour

Begins to work immediately.

Taste

Applied to skin

Applied to Skin

Beef Flavor

Active Ingredient(s)

Indoxacarb, Permethrin

Fipronil and Cyphenothrin

Lufenuron

RX Required

Dosage

Usage

Video

Coming soon

Vet Review

When the Activyl product line came out several years ago, it was touted as a totally novel new product on the market that would not have the problems of emerging flea resistance to products that has believed to been increasing in recent years with the old standby products in some cases. It supposedly works through a unique process of bioactivation using only the flea enzymes in activating the main ingredient, indoxacarb, in killing fleas. Along with the permethrin ingredient for tick coverage and control, it would seem like this would be a first line or excellent choice for those looking for a novel and comprehensive flea/tick product for their dogs. And while it is also effective in preventing flea eggs and larvae from developing as well, and can be highly effective in today's war against fleas and ticks, I have seen occasional problems with this product, as reported by clients. While its deeper penetration in the fatty oils of the skin may be a benefit, and while the product is not reported to be absorbed systemically, I have seen occasional and severe side effects reported by animal guardians. As with most other topical products in this venue, this particular product can occasionally cause irritation and itching at the site of application, which while usually only transient for a day or two, in some pets the itching and allergic reaction has been noted to intensify, necessitating anti-itch medications for relief. Some clients have also reported an odd odor from the application site for a while, as well as an oily film, which may persist for a few days. While many clients do report this product highly effective when other competitor products may have failed them recently, these occasional reactions are important to note, especially in a very sensitive or geriatric animal, and/or one with a chronic medical condition. On very rare occasions, clients have reported digestive side effects, as well as rare neurological weakness, stiffness or even spasms. While the vast majority of clients are satisfied with this product's performance and reliability, the decision on using this stronger, newer way of flea and tick control, should be made after careful consideration of patient history, as well as discussion with the local veterinarian. I give this product an overall rating of a 4, with an ease of use of a 5, with a mid-rating safety level of 3.

Currently under review

For my clients who prefer an effective non-pesticide manner of preventing and controlling fleas on their dogs and cats, program offers a wonderful alternative. When this product first came out, I used to educate my clients on the fact that it was in essence a birth control pill for fleas. The main ingredient lufeneron is an insect growth regulator that does not kill adult fleas, but sterilizes adult fleas and prevents them from laying eggs that develop into larvae and future adults. Each adult flea can lay up to 2000 eggs in its life. It is because of this effect on flea development which makes program such a wonderful preventative. For existing flea infestations, I don't find this product works as well unless it is combined with oral Capstar, which kills adult fleas on cats and/or topical products like Frontline or Advantage. I have found this product both very safe and effective with only rare side effects seen i.e rare digestive upset. It is best given with a meal for maximal absorption which is hard on some kitty owners My overall rating of this product is a 4 with ease of use a 4, taste a 4 and efficacy a 5, in particular for preventing flea infestations before they become established.

Our expert panel consists of licensed veterinarians and the knowledgeable staff of PetMed Express, Inc. d/b/a 1-800-PetMeds. Neither the Company nor any of its employees or consultants make any warranties, expressed or implied, or representations about the accuracy or completeness of the content or the content of any site or external sites. Likewise, no legal liability or responsibility is assumed for the accuracy or completeness of any information, or usefulness of products discussed. While every effort has been made to accurately represent the qualities and characteristics of each product, which for the most part were taken directly from the websites of the manufacturers, we are not responsible for any errors. The information presented is for educational purposes only and is intended to be a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise and professional judgment of your veterinarian. The information is NOT to be used for diagnosis or treatment of your pet. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the treatment of your pet. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, allergic reactions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for your pet. It is not a substitute for a veterinary exam, and it does not replace the need for services provided by your veterinarian. Note: Any trademarks are the property of their respective companies.