Drug interactions amongst companion animal parasiticides

Abstract

The global burden of ectoparasitic infestations is exacerbated by the lack of licensed vaccines, making safe and effective parasiticide drugs vital to their prevention and treatment. The last two decades in the companion animal parasiticides market has brought a welcome surge in the number of new antiparasitic agents. However, this requires veterinary prescribers to be much more knowledgeable about drug mode of action, indications, adverse reactions, and the potential for drug–drug interactions. Most antiparasitic drugs have an acceptable safety margin, however some are associated with clinically significant side effects or drug–drug interactions. The risk for these side effects can be increased when drugs are used in combination, and by concurrent medications prescribed for preexisting conditions. This article describes the risk of acute adverse reactions associated with treatment with antiparasitic drugs and highlights the current safety warnings regarding concurrent use of some drugs.