Trifexis is a widely recognized and controversial drug for dogs, achieving popularity for its FDA approval and the range of parasites it targets. Despite its notoriety due to reported side effects, Trifexis remains the number one prescribed combination parasite protection for dogs. It safeguards against fleas, heartworms, and intestinal worms. However, effectiveness does not always equate to safety for your canine companion.
What is Trifexis? Trifexis is a drug available in flavored chewable tablets for dogs, designed to protect them from parasites such as heartworms, roundworms, hookworms, and fleas. Administered monthly, Trifexis offers convenience with its beef-flavored tablet form, marketed as an easy method for monthly anti-parasite medication.
Many dog owners on social media have reported anecdotes blaming Trifexis for seizures and other neurological problems in dogs.
What’s the difference between Trifexis Green, Brown, and Blue? The recommended dosage for Trifexis depends on the size of the dog. They organize dosing recommendations by color, starting with pink for small dogs (5-10 lbs) and going up to brown for large breeds (60.1-120 lbs). If you decide to use the drug, ensure your vet prescribes the right one for your dog’s size to avoid giving more than needed. Does your dog need Trifexis? Conventional veterinarians prescribe this drug for its convenience as it’s easy to give one pill a month to prevent fleas, intestinal worms, and heartworm disease. But is it really necessary to do this every month, year-round? When it comes to pest preventive drugs, oral ones are the riskiest category for your dog. There are many safer options you can read about in the related article: The safest flea and tick prevention for dogs. In many climates, fleas and heartworms are only a seasonal risk, not year-round. While preventing them is desirable, remember Trifexis also kills intestinal worms that your dog probably doesn’t have. There’s no reason to add unnecessary drugs to deworm your dog unless he actually has worms. Now that you know the risks and reported side effects of Trifexis, if your veterinarian recommends the drug, think carefully and research safer alternatives before giving it to your dog.
