What is Advantix?

Advantix is indicated for the treatment and prevention of fleas (Ctenocephalides sp.) on dogs. It also controls lice (Trichodectes canis, Linognathus setosus) on dogs for up to 6 weeks. In addition Advantix repels and kills paralysis ticks (Ixodes holocyclus), brown dog ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus), bush ticks (Haemaphysalis longicornis), mosquitoes (Anopheles, Culex and Aedes sp.) and sandflies (Phlebotomus and Culicoides sp.). It also repels stable (biting) flies (Stomoxys calcitrans).

What are the active ingredients in Advantix and how do they work?

Advantix contains imidacloprid and permethrin. Imidacloprid is an insect neurotoxin and works by interfering with the transmission of impulses along the insect nervous system. This causes paralysis of the insect and its ultimate death. Permethrin is a type of pyrethroid insecticide. It too affects the insects' nervous system resulting in paralysis and death.

How often is Advantix applied?

To break the flea life cycle Advantix is applied directly to the skin every 4 weeks. By doing this Advantix ensures that fleas that jump onto your pet will stop feeding, become paralysed and die. In addition Advantix controls the immature stages of the flea's life cycle in the environment and so prevents reinfestation. Applying it monthly like this will also kill and repel brown dog ticks, bush ticks, mosquitoes and sandflies as well as control lice and repel stable flies. It must be applied fortnightly to kill and repel paralysis ticks.

From what age can Advantix be used?

Advantix is safe to use in puppies and dogs of any size from 7 weeks of age. 

How quickly does Advantix work?

Advantix stops fleas biting within 3 to 5 minutes and kills both adult fleas and larvae within 20 minutes. Fleas are not required to bite the animal to receive a lethal dose. Ticks already on a dog at the ime of treatment will be killed but remain attached and visible. During tick season daily searching for and removal of any ticks found is recommended. Ideally Advantix should be applied 1 month prior to first exposure to ticks.

Is Advantix water fast?

Advantix remains effective following shampooing with a soap-free shampoo, swimming or exposure to rain. Bathing your pet is not required prior to applying Advantix however your pet should not be allowed to swim or be shampooed within 48 hours after treatment. Avoid applying Advantix while the animal is wet.

Can Advantix be used on pets with itchy skin?

Advantix can be used in the management of pets with very itchy and inflammed skin due to flea bites - also known as flea allergy dermatitis.

Can I use Advantix all year-round even if I am not in a tick area?

Fleas are often a year-round problem and so Advantix should be applied every 4 weeks throughout the year, even during times when ticks are not an issue. 

Can Advantix be used on pregnant or lactating animals? 

Advantix is safe for use on pregnant and lactating dogs. 

Can Advantix be used on cats?  

Advantix is CONTRAINDICATED for use in cats. Cats are highly sensitive to permethrin due to their unique physiology and inability to metabolise certain chemicals. Use of Advantix on cats may have serious harmful effects, including death. Keep cats separated from recently treated dogs. There are reports of toxic effects in cats which groom or contact dogs treated 48 hours earlier. Toxic efefcts include behaviour changes, drooling, tremors and death. Seek veterinary advice immediately if you suspect toxicity in a cat.

Additional Information  

On rare occasions reactions on dogs may include skin sensitivity resulting in symptoms such as scratching, agitation and lethargy. Advantix has no strong chemical smell. The liquid vehicle in Advantix may discolour or damage certain surfaces and fabrics e.g. polished floorboards, leather. Exlude the animal from contact with such surfaces until the product dries on the animal's coat. 

Safety Directions  

Will damage the eyes. Avoid contact with the eyes. If product in eyes, wash it out immediately with water. Wash hands after use.

First Aid  

If poisoning occurs, contact a doctor or Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 (Australia). If swallowed DO NOT induce vomiting. Give a glass of water.