Advantage II vs Capstar

Parasites aren’t just irritating - they bring with them a host of potential health problems for you and your pet. Pet parents might become overwhelmed quickly when exploring ways to keep pests at bay. Two of the most popular parasite treatment options are Advantage II and Capstar. These products are similar in some ways, but quite different in others. Keep reading to review a table and more information that might help you make a decision between these two effective products.

How do Advantage II and Capstar differ?

To start, we’ll discuss the similarities between these two products. One key parallel is that both products are over-the-counter flea treatment options. They are both safe for use in puppies - Capstar can be used on dogs as young as 4 weeks old weighing at least 2 pounds, while Advantage II is safe for puppies 7 weeks old and up. Both medications kill fleas effectively, with Advantage II starting to kill the parasites within 12 hours and Capstar killing 90% within 4 hours.

Now, let’s weigh the differences to help you choose the right product for your dog’s needs. Capstar is intended to be used as needed to control flea infestations. It can be orally administered as frequently as daily. It is effective only against existing adult fleas. Heartgard II is a once-monthly topical treatment that eradicates adult fleas, flea larvae and eggs, and lice, and it also protects against heartworms.

Capstar is safe for use in pregnant, breeding, or lactating dogs, while you should check with your vet before administering Advantage II if your dog falls under any of these categories. Capstar contains Nitenpyram, while Advantage II combines Pyriproxyfen with Imidacloprid. Capstar is safe for use in cats, while Advantage II offers a different formula made specifically for cats.

Closing thoughts on Advantage II vs. Capstar

The key consideration when choosing one (or both, with veterinary approval) of these high-quality products is whether or not your dog simply requires quick relief of an existing infestation, or whether he or she might benefit from long-term protection against a number of parasites. If your dog isn’t currently taking a heartworm preventative and they are prone to lice or frequent flea-infested areas, Advantage II is a great option. If you’re just hoping to control an infestation with a single product on an as-needed basis, Capstar is the way to go.

Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about the option(s) you’ve chosen. Your vet can confirm that you’ve made the right choice for your dog, and he or she can also answer all your questions about both products. The incredible Allivet pharmacists are also available for a pet parent consultation if you find yourself with any lingering concerns or questions!

K9 Advantix II for Dogs

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Capstar

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Feature Advantage II Capstar
Kills Fleas Yes Yes
Repels Fleas No No
Kills Flea Eggs and Larvae Yes No
Kills Ticks No No
Repels Ticks No No
Repels Mosquitoes No No
Prevents Heartworm Yes No
Other Parasites Treats lice No
Waterproof Yes Yes since taken orally
How Long to work Begins to kill fleas within 12 hours Kills 90% of fleas in 4 hours
Taste N/A No flavor
Active Ingredient Imidacloprid and Pyriproxyfen Nitenpyram
RX Required No No
Application Type Topical Chewable Tablet
Dosing 1 application per month Safe for as often as once per day
Age Dogs 7 weeks and older Dogs 4 weeks and older that weigh at least 2 pounds
Manufacturer Bayer Animal Health Elanco
Safety Speak to your vet about risks associated with breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs Breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs may use.

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