Selamectin (Revolution®)

Overview

Selamectin is a semi synthetic avermectin antiparasitic agent primarily used to kill adult fleas and ticks. It also kills ear mites, feline hookworms, feline roundworms and sarcoptic mange. It also prevents heartworm infection.

It works by interfering with the nervous system of insects and some worms, resulting in death.

Selamectin is a topical solution that collects in the oils of the skin and in the hair follicles. It is absorbed into the body and circulates through the blood stream.

The effects of selamectin last about 30 days.

Selamectin is a prescription drug and can only be obtained from a veterinarian or by prescription from a veterinarian.

Brand Names and Other Names

This drug is registered for use in animals only.

Human formulations: None

Veterinary formulations: Revolution® (Pfizer)

Uses of Selamectin

In dogs, selamectin is used to treat and control fleas, ticks, ear mites and a certain type of mange (Sarcoptes). It is also used to prevent heartworm infection.

In cats, selamectin is used to treat and control fleas, ear mites, hookworms and roundworms and prevent heartworm disease in dogs and cats . It is also used to prevent heartworm infection.

It has also been used to treat Cheyletiellosis (Walking Dandruff Mite) in dogs and cats. 

Precautions and Side Effects

While generally safe and effective when prescribed by a veterinarian, selamectin can cause side effects in some animals.

Selamectin should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug.

This product is not recommended for use in debilitated or underweight animals.

It is not recommended for use in kittens less than 8 weeks of age or puppies less than 6 weeks of age.

Selamectin is a topical agent and temporary irritation and hair loss at the site of application is possible.

Side effects are rare and may include vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, drooling, lethargy or muscle tremors, associated with ingestion of selamectin.

There have been reports of a few collies drooling and staggering when overdosed with selamectin.

How Selamectin is Supplied

Selamectin is available in the following sized tubes:

15 mg/tube with 0.25 ml/tube

45 mg/tube with 0.75 ml/tube

30 mg/tube with 0.25 ml/tube

60 mg/tube with 0.5 ml/tube

120 mg/tube with 1 ml/tube

240 mg/tube with 2 ml/tube

Dosing Information

Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian. 

The dose of selamectin is based on the weight of the dog and pipettes are available in 0.25 ml (15 mg/tube) for dogs up to 5 pounds, 0.25 ml (30 mg/tube) for dogs 5.1 to 10 pounds, 0.5 ml (60 mg/tube) for dogs 10.1 to 20 pounds, 1 ml (120 mg/tube) for dogs 20.1 to 40 pounds and 2 mls (240 mg/tube) for dogs 40.1 to 80 pounds. One pipette is applied topically every 30 days.

For cats, pipettes are available in 0.25 ml (15 mg/tube) for cats under 5 pounds and 0.75 ml (45 mg/tube) for cats 5.1 to 15 pounds and one pipette is applied once monthly. 

The duration of administration depends on the condition being treated, response to the medication and the development of any adverse effects. Be certain to complete the prescription unless specifically directed by your veterinarian.