Simparica Trio vs Trifexis

As a proud and loving dog parent, the health of your pup is of utmost importance. Choosing the right parasite and heartworm preventative plays a major role in keeping your canine companion healthy, happy, and protected against dangerous pests and the diseases they cause and carry. Simparica Trio and Trifexis are a couple of the most popular treatment options available at Allivet. Both of these products offer unique advantages and key differences. Read on to learn how they compare to one another!

What are the key differences and similarities between Simparica Trio and Trifexis?

One important similarity between these two medications is that they both protect dogs against heartworms, roundworms, hookworms, and fleas. Both products come in the form of a convenient, chewable, tasty, beef-flavored tablet. They also both require a prescription.

Both products are administered monthly, and they are both safe for use in puppies over 8 weeks old. Simparica Trio should only be given to puppies weighing more than 2.8 pounds, and Trifexis is only safe for puppies over 5 pounds. Because neither formula has been evaluated for safety in lactating, pregnant, or breeding dogs, you should be sure to consult your veterinarian if your dog fits this description. 

The most notable difference between these products is their approach to parasite control. Simparica uses a trio of Saroloner, Moxidectin, and Pyrantel to combat fleas and ticks, along with the parasites listed above. It also kills flea larvae and eggs. Trifexis contains two active ingredients - Spinosad and Milbemycin Oxime. This product offers added protection against whipworms, and the rapidly-acting formula kills 100% of biting fleas within just 4 hours of dosing.

Choosing between Simparica Trio and Trifexis

For pet parents on the hunt for an effective, safe, and reliable way to protect their pups against heartworms, fleas, hookworms, and roundworms, Trifexis and Simparica Trio are two incredible options. Deciding between these products may be as simple as considering your puppy’s weight. If you have a puppy over 8 weeks old weighing between 2.8 and 5 pounds, Simparica Trio is the safest option. If your puppy is over 5 pounds and 8 weeks old, either option is safe for your pet.

You may also opt to base your decision on the added protections provided by each medication. Simparica Trio offers added protection against flea eggs, flea larvae, and ticks, while Trifexis defends against whipworms and works quickly against fleas.

Be sure to speak to your vet about these formulas and ask him or her if the medication you’ve chosen is truly the best option for your dog. Your veterinarian can address any concerns you might have, and they will also provide you with a prescription. After you fill your prescription at Allivet and receive the lowest prices you’ll find anywhere, your pet meds will be delivered right to your door. Then it’s time to get your dog on the road to parasite protection! If you find yourself with any questions after you leave your veterinarian’s office, reach out to the Allivet pharmacists for a pet parent consultation.

Feature Simparica Trio Trifexis
Kills Fleas Yes Yes
Repels Fleas No No
Kills Flea Eggs and Larvae Yes Yes
Kills Ticks Yes No
Repels Ticks No No
Repels Mosquitoes No No
Prevents Heartworm Yes Yes
Other Parasites Hookworms and roundworms Roundworm, hookworm, and whipworm
Waterproof Yes Yes
How Long to work N/A Kills 100% of biting fleas in 4 hours
Taste Beef flavored Beef flavored
Active Ingredient Sarolaner, moxidectin, and pyrantel Spinosad and Milbemycin Oxime
RX Required Yes Yes
Application Type Chewable Tablet Chewable Tablet
Dosing 1 tablet per month 1 tablet per month
Age Dogs 8 weeks and 2.8lbs or more Puppies 8 weeks and older and weigh more than 5 lbs.
Manufacturer Zoetis Elanco Animal Health
Safety has not been evaluated in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs. Not yet evaluated for use of in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs.