Introducing NexGard SPECTRA®: Boehringer Ingelheim’s Advanced Solution for Dogs Now Available in India
Boehringer Ingelheim, a renowned global leader in animal health, has recently introduced NexGard SPECTRA® (afoxolaner and milbemycin oxime) in India. This significant launch comes after receiving approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO). NexGard SPECTRA® marks an expansion of Boehringer Ingelheim’s NexGard® product line, which has been celebrated for its efficacy and innovation in pet care.
NexGard SPECTRA® stands out as a soft, flavorful monthly chew specifically designed for dogs. It offers comprehensive protection against a wide range of internal and external parasites in a single dose. The chew’s formulation includes two active ingredients: afoxolaner, targeting fleas and ticks, and milbemycin oxime, safeguarding against heartworm and controlling intestinal worms. This combination ensures not only convenience but also safety and peace of mind for pet owners and veterinarians alike.
Parasites pose a myriad of health risks to dogs, ranging from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening conditions. Fleas, ticks, and mites can cause pains, skin irritation, allergic reactions, and transmit diseases such as tick fever. Heartworms and lungworms can lead to heart and respiratory issues respectively, while intestinal worms can result in gastrointestinal problems and even fatalities, especially in young puppies.
NexGard SPECTRA® has demonstrated remarkable efficacy against these parasites. It exhibits rapid action, with fleas being killed within four hours post-treatment, and over 99% effectiveness observed at eight hours. The chew has also shown significant reduction against Demodex and sarcoptes mites, as well as high efficacy against roundworms, whipworms, and hookworms. Moreover, it provides full protection against heartworms and eyeworms with monthly administration.
Dr. Vinod Gopal, Country Head – Animal Health, Boehringer Ingelheim India, emphasizes the importance of comprehensive parasite control measures, considering India’s estimated pet dog population of more than 27 million. He highlights NexGard SPECTRA® as a major advancement in this regard, offering both convenience and effectiveness in combating parasites. Dr. Gopal underscores the company’s commitment to innovation, emphasizing that a healthy pet contributes to a healthy home environment.
Dr. Kallahalli Umesh, a small animal consultant based in Bengaluru, underscores the year-round and endemic nature of tick-borne diseases in India. He stresses the importance of fast and effective treatments against ticks, fleas, mange mites, and internal parasites to maintain pet health. Dr. Umesh highlights the challenges in controlling tick populations and the significance of preventive measures in reducing disease risks.
Dr. Makrand Chavan, General Secretary of the Federation of Small Animal Practitioners Associations – India, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a regular parasite control regimen for the well-being of both pets and their owners. He stresses that preventive treatments not only ensure pet health and comfort but also contribute to a safer environment by reducing disease risks from parasites.
Dr. Jasjeet Josan, Secretary of the National Veterinary Foundation (NVF), underscores the critical role of reliable anti-parasitic drugs in preventing and treating potentially fatal parasitic infections, which also pose risks to human health. He emphasizes the need for a broad-spectrum anti-parasitic drug targeting both endo and ectoparasites to address public health concerns effectively.
Dr. B Nagarajan, President of the Association for Veterinary Dermatology, India, highlights the prevalence of various parasitic infections in dogs, necessitating a comprehensive approach to parasite control. He emphasizes the importance of offering a single solution for multiple parasitic threats, simplifying treatment protocols for veterinarians and pet owners while reducing the spread of zoonotic diseases.
NexGard SPECTRA® will be available in five different sizes to accommodate dogs of various weights, ensuring accessibility and suitability for a wide range of pets. Its unique combination of active ingredients and proven efficacy against a spectrum of parasites reaffirms Boehringer Ingelheim’s commitment to advancing pet care through innovation and excellence. With NexGard SPECTRA®, pet owners can rest assured that their beloved companions are receiving comprehensive protection against parasites, promoting their health and well-being.
