ATCvet code: QP53AX15
Pharmacodynamics
Fipronil is an insecticide and acaricide belonging to the phenylpyrazole family. It acts by interacting with ligand-gated chloride channels, in particular those gated by the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), thereby blocking pre- and post-synaptic transfer of chloride ions across cell membranes. This results in uncontrolled activity of the central nervous system and death of insects and acarids.
Fipronil exhibits an insecticidal and acaricidal activity against fleas (Ctenocephalides spp), the veterinary medicinal product is effective against fleas for up to 2 months, depending on the level of environmental challenge. Newly arriving fleas are killed within 24 hours of landing on the animal. Ticks (Dermacentor spp., Rhipicephalus spp. and Ixodes spp. including Ixodes ricinus, important as the vector of Lyme disease) and lice (Trichodectes canis) within 48 hours post-exposure.