Nurses Compass
Drug Guide
Lotilaner
Classification
Therapeutic: Antiparasitic
Pharmacological: Ectoparasiticide, Insecticide, Acaricide
FDA Approved Indications
- Treatment of flea infestations (Ctenocephalides felis) in dogs
Mechanism of Action
Lotilaner is an oral isoxazoline that inhibits ligand-gated chloride channels in the nervous system of insects and arachnids, leading to paralysis and death of fleas.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: Once monthly oral dose as directed by veterinarian, typically based on weight.
Pediatric: Safety and efficacy not established in puppies under 8 weeks of age or weighing less than 2 kg.
Geriatric: No specific dose adjustments required, but caution advised in elderly animals with comorbidities.
Renal Impairment: No specific dosage adjustments recommended.
Hepatic Impairment: Limited data; use with caution and under veterinary guidance.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Rapid absorption after oral administration.
Distribution: Widely distributed in tissues.
Metabolism: Primarily metabolized in the liver.
Excretion: Excreted mainly via feces.
Half Life: Approximately 17 days in dogs.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to lotilaner or other isoxazolines.
Precautions
- Monitor for allergic reactions.
- Use cautiously in animals with a history of seizures.
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Vomiting (Uncommon)
- Lethargy (Uncommon)
- Diarrhea (Uncommon)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Seizures (Rare)
- Anaphylaxis (Rare)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- None well-documented, but caution with other CNS-active drugs.
Drug-Food Interactions
- None known.
Drug-Herb Interactions
- Limited data; generally no known interactions.
Nursing Implications
Assessment: Evaluate flea infestation severity.
Diagnoses:
- Parasitic infestation related to flea presence.
Implementation: Administer dose orally as per veterinary instructions.
Evaluation: Monitor for effectiveness in eliminating fleas and for any adverse reactions.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Administer medication exactly as prescribed.
- Observe for adverse reactions like vomiting or lethargy.
- Maintain regular dosing schedule.
- Avoid overdose.
- Contact veterinarian if any unusual symptoms occur.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings:
- None currently.
- Monitor for neurological adverse effects in susceptible animals.
Genetic Factors: Limited data.
Lab Test Interference: No known interference.
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Vomiting, ataxia, seizures, lethargy.
Treatment: Supportive care, detoxification, and symptomatic management; consult veterinarian immediately.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at room temperature, away from moisture and light.
Stability: Stable unopened; discard after expiration date.