Boehringer Ingelheim, a global leader in animal health, announced the launch of NexGard Spectra (afoxolaner and milbemycin oxime) in India, following its approval by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).

After the successful launches of its blockbuster NexGard range of products - NexGard X and L in 2020 and NexGard S and M (afoxolaner) in 2023, this represents an expansion of the NexGard product line for dogs aged between two months and weighing two kgs and above.

NexGard Spectra is a soft, flavourful chew for dogs that offers broad-spectrum internal and external parasite control in a single monthly dose. As a prescription-only product in India, NexGard Spectra contains two active ingredients: afoxolaner, which targets fleas and ticks, and milbemycin oxime, which protects against heartworm and controls intestinal worms. 

"With an estimated pet dog population of more than 27 million in India1, there is a significant need for comprehensive parasite control measures. Effective parasites control in pets is not just about treating, but also about preventing. NexGard Spectra signifies a major step forward in comprehensive parasite control, providing a convenient and effective solution for veterinarians as well as pet parents. It reflects our unwavering commitment to innovation. Remember, a healthy pet means a healthy home," said Dr. Vinod Gopal, Country Head - Animal Health, Boehringer Ingelheim India.

Dr. Kallahalli Umesh, Small animal consultant, Bengaluru, said, "Tick-borne diseases in India are now year-round and endemic in some cities due to challenges in controlling tick populations, as a single female tick can lay up to 20,000 eggs. Furthermore, ticks at all stages of development can remain infective for several generations, causing recurrent tick fever in dogs. Fast and effective treatments against ticks, fleas, mange mites, and internal parasites are crucial for controlling these infections and maintaining pet health."

Dr. Makrand Chavan, General Secretary, Federation of Small Animal Practitioners Associations – India, Mumbai, said, "Maintaining a regular parasite control regimen is crucial for pet and owner well-being. Appropriate preventive treatments stop the spread of these parasites, ensure health, comfort, and a safer environment by reducing disease risks from parasites. It's part of responsible pet ownership. We advise pet parents to discuss effective and safe products with their veterinarians."

Dr. Jasjeet Josan, Secretary, National Veterinary Foundation (NVF), said, "Reliable anti-parasitic drugs for dogs are vital to prevent and treat potentially fatal parasitic infections, which also pose human health risks. From a public health perspective, a strict regime to eradicate these parasites is essential. The current need in the pet segment is a broad-spectrum anti-parasitic drug targeting both endo and ectoparasites, for both prevention and treatment."

Dr. B Nagarajan, President, Association for Veterinary Dermatology, India, said, "The need for a broad-spectrum anti-parasitic drug for dogs arises due to the prevalence of various parasitic infections, including ticks, fleas, mites, and worms. Hence, it is essential to provide a comprehensive protection against a range of parasites. Additionally, it would simplify treatment protocols for veterinarians and pet owners by offering a single solution for multiple parasitic threats. It will also reduce the dangers of spread of zoonotic diseases between animal and humans."