Trifexis vs Capstar

When it comes to your fur family, you'll do anything to keep them healthy and safe. At Allivet, we like to think we're part of your family, too. For that reason, we've created a comparison chart between Trifexis Chewable Tablets and Capstar Chewable Tablets to ensure your peace of mind when choosing the right parasite treatment for your pets.

Trifexis Chewables for Dogs

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Capstar Chewables for Dogs

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What are the differences between Trifexis and Capstar

Trifexis is effective against fleas, heartworms, hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms. It is a chewable, beef-flavored tablet. Capstar is an unflavored oral tablet. Capstar can be given as frequently as once per day, while Trifexis is a once-monthly treatment. Puppies must be at least 8 weeks old and 5 pounds before you can start them on Trifexis. Capstar can be safely administered at 4 weeks and 2 pounds.

Trifexis contains Spinosad and Milbemycin Oxime, and it begins to kill fleas in as little as 30 minutes. It eliminates all fleas within 4 hours. Because Capstar is solely meant to eradicate existing infestations, reinfection could occur if other pets and the pet’s environment are not treated for fleas. If any eggs or larvae have hatched, another dose of Capstar will be required to eliminate them

Both products are safe for dogs when used according to directions. However, unlike Capstar, Trifexis has not yet been evaluated for use in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs. Capstar is safe for these dogs. Trifexis is not available for cats. However, Capstar does offer a feline option.

Trifexis requires a prescription from your veterinarian, and Capstar may be bought over-the-counter. Your vet should be able to answer any questions related to side effects, precautions, or special care for your dog.

Final Thoughts on Trifexis vs Capstar

The primary factor to consider when choosing one of these effective medications is whether you’re looking to start your dog on a long-term preventative, or if you’re simply hoping to eradicate an existing infestation. You should always consult your veterinarian prior to starting your dog on a new medication.

If you still have questions on which oral flea and tick treatment is best for your dog, the Allivet pharmacists are available for pet parent consultations.

Feature Trifexis 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 Roundworm, hookworm, and whipworm No
Waterproof Yes since taken orally Yes since taken orally
How Long to work Kills 100% of biting fleas in 4 hours Kills 90% of fleas in 4 hours
Taste Beef Flavored No flavor
Active Ingredient Spinosad and Milbemycin Oxime Nitenpyram
RX Required Yes No
Application Type Chewable Tablet Chewable Tablet
Dosing 1 tablet per month 1 application per month
Age Puppies 8 weeks and older and weigh more than 5 lbs. Dogs 7 weeks and older that weight at least 3 pounds
Manufacturer Elanco Animal Health Bayer Animal Health
Safety Not yet evaluated for use of in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs. Speak to your vet about risks associated with breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs

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