Simparica® (Sarolaner) Dosage Calculator For Dogs
Accurate weight-based dosage guidelines for canine flea & tick protection.
Core Prescribing Formula
Simparica is administered orally once a month at the minimum recommended target dose of 0.91 mg/lb (2.0 mg/kg).
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Please enter your dog’s exact weight on the left and click “Calculate Dosage” to view precision metrics.
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Simparica Dosage For Dogs is a flavored, chewable prescription tablet for dogs 6 months and older, and is used only by weight. Each tablet provides a consistent amount (2 mg/kg or 0.91 mg/lb) of sarolaner, a parasiticide with a specific mode of action that belongs to the isoxazoline class, and is composed of the S-enantiomer of sarolaner for targeted activity against parasites. This monthly drug will help protect your pets against fleas, and several types of ticks, such as the Gulf Coast tick, Brown Dog tick, Deer tick, American Dog tick, Lone Star tick and Asian Longhorned tick.
Simparica for dogs starts to act rapidly after administration - it kills fleas within 3 hours and it puts down ticks 8 hours after the infestation. It kills existing fleas and inhibits egg-laying; preventing flea infestations around the house. Providing up to 35 days of protection even if next dose is slightly delayed with effectiveness up to 34–35 days/ dose cycle in a single chewable tablet.
Simparica dose can be administered with or without food and is a tasty, pork-liver flavored chewable that is easy to give monthly and stress free in dogs at least 2.8 lbs. It is known to kill parasites and could also decrease the transmission of tick-borne diseases like Lyme infection by killing deer ticks at an early stage in their life cycle.
Key Takeaways
- Simparica dosage for dogs by weight is a prescription, flavored chewable tablet for dogs 6 months and older.
- Dosage is weight-based, providing 2mg/kg (0.91mg/lb) of sarolaner.
- It is part of the isoxazoline group of parasiticides and is composed of the S-enantiomer of sarolaner.
- Monthly protection is provided for approximately 34-35 days, even if doses are missed.
- Bites ticks quickly: kills them within 8 hours of infestation and kills fleas within 3 hours.
- Works on several tick species that can carry Lyme disease, such as deer ticks.
- Kills fleas before they lay eggs to help prevent flea infestations.
- Can be administered with or without food and is safe for dogs 2.8 lbs and up.
- Can be given as a pork liver flavored chew, so easier to give monthly!
Simparica Dosage Chart For Dogs By Weight
Here is the complete weight-based dosage chart for Simparica (Sarolaner) chewable tablets.
| Dog Weight (Pounds / lbs) | Dog Weight (Kilograms / kg) | Tablet Strength (mg) | Box Package Color |
| 2.8 to 5.5 lbs | 1.3 to 2.5 kg | 5 mg | Yellow Box |
| 5.6 to 11.0 lbs | 2.6 to 5.0 kg | 10 mg | Purple Box |
| 11.1 to 22.0 lbs | 5.1 to 10.0 kg | 20 mg | Orange Box |
| 22.1 to 44.0 lbs | 10.1 to 20.0 kg | 40 mg | Blue Box |
| 44.1 to 88.0 lbs | 20.1 to 40.0 kg | 80 mg | Green Box |
| 88.1 to 132.0 lbs | 40.1 to 60.0 kg | 120 mg | Brown Box |
⚠️ Important Clinical Thresholds:
- Minimum Age & Weight: Simparica medication for dogs should not be administered to puppies less than 6 weeks of age or dogs weighing less than 2.8 lbs (1.3 kg).
- Giant Breeds (Over 132 lbs / 60 kg): Dogs over this weight limit require a combination of two tablets prescribed by a veterinarian to ensure they reach the target safety threshold of 0.91 mg/lb (2.0 mg/kg). Always consult your veterinarian for the correct matching combination.
What is Simparica?
Manufactured by Zoetis, Simparica is a prescription oral chewable tablet for dogs that can be used to prevent and treat fleas, ticks, and other parasites, as well as heartworms and intestinal worms in dogs. It is an FDA-approved antiparasitic drug for dogs and it can be used to treat and prevent flea infestation, control multiple species of ticks, prevent heartworm disease and treat intestinal round worms and hook worms depending on the product type.
This Simparica product dosage for dogs line consists of two main options, such as Simparica and Simparica Trio. Simparica is an isoxazoline (ectoparasiticide) containing sarolaner, which acts on fleas and ticks, with monthly protection for up to 35 days. Simparica Trio contains sarolaner, moxidectin and pyrantel which work together to provide a broader spectrum: moxidectin is effective against heartworm disease and is used to treat roundworms and hookworms, and pyrantel is used to treat roundworms and hookworms.
Simparica for pets is a rapid-acting product, which starts to kill adult fleas within 3 hours of application and ticks within 8 hours. Works on 6 major species of ticks: Lone Star, Gulf Coast, American dog, deer (black-legged), brown dog and Asian longhorned. Safe year round use without interruption, protection is consistent for approximately one month and treatment may be started anytime of the year.
Beyond the above, Simparica can be used off-label under veterinary supervision for conditions such as mange and ear mites, where there is evidence for its safe and effective use. When used as prescribed by a veterinarian, it is generally well tolerated in dogs and has a low risk of side effects, overdose or drug interactions.
Simparica can be used in dogs from 6 months of age and older and weighing at least 2.8 lbs and is prescribable only from a veterinarian or licensed veterinary pharmacy.
How Are Simparica Products Used in Dogs?
Simparica and Simparica Trio are chewable tablets for dogs that are administered once every 30 days (monthly dosing) and provide protection against fleas and ticks and other parasites depending on the formulation. They are formulated to form chewable tablets that are easy to administer, can be given with food or on their own and must be chewed completely to be effective.
These products are FDA approved for use on dogs 6 months or older, at least 2.8 pounds (1.3 kg) for treatment and prevention of flea infestation and treatment and control of multiple tick infestation including Lone Star, Gulf Coast, American dog, black-legged (deer), brown dog, and Asian longhorned ticks.
- Simparica is used to treat mange in dogs.
- Given once a month (every 30 days) as an oral chewable tablet
- Can be given on either food or empty stomach
- If vomiting or upset stomach happens, offer the next dose with a treat and/or food
- Tablet should be taken in a form well chewed or broken for better effectiveness.
- Fast acting against fleas and ticks
- If used correctly, the following benefits can be achieved:
- Effective against adult fleas and for control of a 'flea attack'
- Eases flea allergy symptoms by getting rid of fleas
- Helps stop flea eggs from being laid, thus minimizing household flea infestations
- Kills ticks quickly to help minimize the threat of tick- and flea-borne diseases
- Continually protects for 30 days each month
- Additional (Extra-Label) Uses
Simparica can also be used for: (under the direction of a veterinarian):
- Demodectic mange
- Sarcoptic mange
- Ear mite infestations
- (Not FDA approved labels, but may be prescribed as appropriate.)
- Important Safety & Usage Notes
- Never exceed veterinarian's recommendations for dosage
- Let the veterinarian know if your dog is taking any other medications, supplements or herbal products.
- Do not stop or change treatment without veterinary advice
- Before use, make sure that the weight and age are correct
Overall, Simparica is a well-tolerated drug that is easy to administer once a month, making it a great choice for flea control and tick control in dogs.
What Are the Benefits of Simparica Products in Dogs?
Depending on the product, Simparica for dogs will provide FDA-approved protection against fleas and ticks as well as broad-spectrum parasite protection. All Simparica products contain the active ingredient sarolaner, which is licensed to treat and control flea infestations and multiple species of ticks in dogs. In combination with moxidectin and pyrantel in Simparica Trio, sarolaner provides protection against heartworms, roundworms and hookworms, providing complete protection against parasites in one monthly dose.
One of the key advantages of Simparica products is its rapid and highly effective action. Within 3 hours after administration, fleas start to be killed and up to 100% of fleas are eliminated within 24 hours; ticks have an effectiveness of about 99% within 48 hours. This kill action helps to rapidly decrease infestations and risk of disease spread with parasites.
Simparica is used to treat dogs for several key benefits
- Lasts for a whole month (30-35 days) for protection against fleas and ticks
- Begins to kill fleas in 3 hours after treatment
- Kills fleas within 24 hours and maintains a 100% kill rate for that period of time
- 72% effective against ticks in 48 hours
- Works on several parasites (depending on the product) (fleas, ticks, heartworms, roundworms, hookworms)
- Antiparasitic treatment approved by the FDA for dogs.
Easy to Use & Practical Benefits
- Simple to administer tasty, liver flavored chewable tablets.
- Can be administered whole or crushed, if necessary, and added to food.
- Ideal for puppies and small dogs from as little as 2.8 lbs (1.3 kg)
- Available in different weight categories for proper dosage and safety
With the ability to provide fast acting, easy to administer and long-lasting protection against parasites, Simparica is a monthly product designed to be a reliable option to help protect dogs from common and potentially harmful parasites.
Do Simparica Products Have Warnings or Side Effects in Dogs?
Simparica products for dogs are well-tolerated when used as directed, but as with most prescription drugs, there are important warnings, precautions and possible side effects. For dogs only – not for cats or humans. Formulations should be stored safely out of the reach of children and animals to avoid accidental exposure or overdose.
Important Warnings & Precautions
- Not for use in dogs that are sensitive to sarolaner or any ingredient(s)
- Do not use on other non-target species, such as cats.
- Should not be used in dogs less than 6 months old.
- Do not use in dogs that weigh less than the minimum labeled weight requirement.
- Caution should be used in dogs with a history of neurological disease such as seizures or epilepsy.
- Care needs to be taken in older, weak, frail, breeding, pregnant and lactating dogs (safety not fully established in some cases).
- Store all medicines safely, out of reach of children and pets
- These are common side effects (usually mild):
The common side effects are:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea (loose stool)
- Decreased appetite
- Low energy or tiredness (lethargy)
These effects are typically not serious, and veterinary care is advised in case they become severe or persistent.
Rare allergic reactions, including Serious or Neurological Side Effects.
Sarolaner is from a class of drugs known as isoxazolines and can produce neurologic effects in susceptible dogs or when overdosed. Reported signs include:
- Muscle tremors
- Ataxia = loss of coordination or problems walking.
- Less awareness of movements in the body (proprioception changes)
- Changes in menace response = abnormal blinking reflex
- Seizures
- If they continue to vomit or are very uninterested in eating.
- Knowing when to call your veterinarian is an important part of taking care of your pet.
If your dog exhibits:
- Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts for several hours.
- Tremors or seizures
- Very poor muscle control, stumbling, or uncoordinated movements
- Rapid progression of any neurological signs or unusual neurological signs
Simparica has been safely used with many of the commonly used medications, vaccines and parasiticides, however, it is important to receive proper veterinary guidance to minimize risks and ensure safe and effective use.
Do Simparica Products Interact With Other Medicines?
You should always use Simparica for dogs under veterinary advice, particularly if your dog is receiving other treatments or supplements. Sometimes mixing treatments can interfere with the action of a drug or exacerbate side effects, but it is important to let your veterinarian know that your pet is taking all prescription medications, over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, vitamins, minerals, herbal products and supplements.
As used at the labeled dose, no significant drug interactions have been observed with sarolaner containing Simparica products. But, with Simparica Trio the presence of moxidectin is more relevant when considering potential interactions.
Simparica Trio (Moxidectin Component) may interact with other medicines.
Some medicines can affect moxidectin or moxidectin can affect some medicines, such as:
- Benzodiazepines (such as alprazolam/Xanax, diazepam/Valium)
- Levamisole
- Piperazine
Medicines to Use With Caution are medications that may be used for a limited time.
When Simparica Trio is used in combination with:
- Spironolactone
- Antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole) in the azole group.
- Cyclosporine
- Diltiazem
- Erythromycin
- Key Safety Note
- There are no known clinically significant drug interactions between sarolaner used alone as directed.
- The list of interaction may not be comprehensive of all medications
- Please check with your veterinarian before you begin or add any treatments
The use of Simparica products is safe and effective when under the care of a veterinarian, particularly if a dog is on more than one medication.
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FAQs
Does this pose safety risks for the owners?
Yes. Hands should be washed with soap and water after handling Simparica products, and never let children or pets come into contact with Simparica products. People who are allergic to any ingredient should avoid handling the medication.
If my pet misses a dose, what should I do?
In the event of a missed dose, it is administered as soon as the dose is remembered and the monthly dosing schedule is restarted on that date. Never give a double dose. If Simparica Trio was not used for more than 8 weeks, then the monthly treatment schedule should be resumed and it may be necessary to see a veterinarian for heartworm testing in about 6 months after the last dose as this is when infection can be detected after exposure.
What if I give my pet too much Simparica?
Simparica products for dogs are not known to be toxic and the chance of an overdose is low. But with an overdose, side effects including vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, excess saliva, trembling, wobbliness or seizures would be more likely. If any of these signs occur or an overdose is suspected, immediate veterinary attention or emergency care should be sought.
What precautions should be taken for storing Simparica products?
They can be kept at room temperature (up to 30°C/86°C) for short periods of time (up to 40°C/104°C). The tablets should be stored in the original blister pack until they are needed, as this keeps them out of moisture or light and should be kept out of the heat, children and pets. Do not use after the expiry date.
Which precautions have to be taken during use?
Simparica is for use only in dogs and should not be used in cats. Dogs under six months of age should not receive it and caution should be used in dogs with a history of seizure or neurologic disease. Safety has not been fully confirmed in breeding, pregnant or lactating dogs and veterinary advice should be sought in such cases.
Is Simparica prescription-only?
Yes, Simparica and Simparica Trio can only be prescribed by a veterinarian, and a veterinarian will decide which is best for each dog for their specific parasite prevention needs.
Can Simparica be given with food?
Yes, it can be administered with or without food, whichever is preferred by the dog.
When does Simparica begin to work?
Kills fleas in approximately three hours and ticks in approximately eight hours.
Is it possible to change from another flea treatment to Simparica?
Switching is an option, however, it needs to be carefully done, so that medications don't overlap. Generally, a 24-hour margin of safety is recommended between applications, and should always be respected in order to guarantee protection without risk of overdose; veterinary advice should always be followed.
When is it time to call a veterinarian?
If significant side effects are experienced, the effects are not improving or get worse, or if there is any doubt about the overdose or unusual response, a veterinarian should be contacted.
Final Thoughts
There's a dependable monthly prescription solution for flea and tick control with Simparica products, while Simparica dosage for dogs by weight also offers targeted protection, and Simparica Trio also helps protect against heartworms and intestinal parasites. They are effective for as long as 30-35 days, easy to chew and have a quick action if used correctly.
Safe use is subject to veterinary advice, age and weight restrictions, and the awareness of potential side effects and/or rare neurological risks. If monitored properly and administered correctly each month, Simparica can be a valuable tool in preventing dogs from potentially serious diseases caused by parasites.
