Advantage II vs Nexgard

When it comes to your pet, nothing matters more to you than the quality of life you can provide your little furball. Therefore it's only natural to compare medications that can help! These two are among the more popular treatments available, Advantage II and Nexgard Chewable Tablets. With this comparison chart and additional information you'll be able to make an easy and informed decision about what to buy your pet.

Advantage II

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Save $5 off $50
with coupon code COMPARE5

What are the differences between Advantage II and Nexgard

Initially, an obvious difference is how the medication is given. Nexgard is given to pets orally as a flavored medication. Advantage II is a topical application applied to the skin of your pet. Both medications are applied once a month. However, puppies must be at least 7 weeks old before you can start them on Advantage II. Nexgard can be safely administered at 8 weeks.

Both Nexgard and Advantage II are designed to kill parasites. Nexgard uses Afoxoflaner and kills 100% of fleas in 24 hours and eliminates ticks. Advantage uses Imidacloprid and Pyriproxyfen and begins to kill fleas in 12 hours, unlike Nexgard it does not kill ticks. Both medications kill flea larvae and eggs. However Advantage has added benefits of eliminating lice. Nexgard is the only FDA approved option for preventing infections that cause Lyme disease.

Nexgard has not yet been evaluated for use in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs while it's best that you speak to your local vet regarding Advantage and the risks associated with pregnant or lactating dogs.

Nexgard chewable tablets are not available for cats. However, Advantage II is also available for your feline companion. Nexgard, unlike Advantage II requires a prescription from your veterinarian before it can be purchased. Your vet should be able to answer any questions related to side effects, precautions, or special care for your dog.

Final Thoughts on Advantage II vs Nexgard

When comparing the two on price, the cost for Advantage II is considerably cheaper. Nexgard offers a defense against ticks where Advantage II does not, yet it provides protection lice. For some owners, the convenience of not having to visit their vet to get a prescription is a positive whereas for others, the peace of mind knowing that their vet recommended their flea control and that they can administer the medication orally is a huge benefit.

If you still have questions on which oral flea and tick treatment is best suited for your pets needs, our veterinarians are standing by to assist you.

Feature Advantage II NexGard
Kills Fleas Yes Yes
Repels Fleas No No
Kills Flea Eggs and Larvae Yes Yes
Kills Ticks No Yes
Repels Ticks No No
Repels Mosquitoes No No
Prevents Heartworm Yes No
Protects Against Other Parasites Treats Lice No
Waterproof Yes Yes - taken orally
How Long to Work Begins to kill fleas within 12 hours 4 hours to kill fleas and 24 hours hours to kill ticks
Taste N/A Beef Flavored
Active Ingredient Imidacloprid and Pyriproxyfen Afoxolaner
RX Required No Yes
Application Type Topical Chewable Tablet
Dosing Once per month 1 tablet per month
Age Dogs 7 weeks and older Puppies 8 weeks and older and weigh more than 4 lbs
Manufacturer Bayer Animal Health Boehringer Ingelheim
Safety Speak to your vet about risks associated with breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs Not yet evaluated for use of in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs.