Merck’s BRAVECTO QUANTUM Receives FDA Approval, Offering Year-Long Flea and Tick Protection for Dogs
A new, once-yearly injectable offers unprecedented duration of protection against fleas and ticks, simplifying pet care for owners and veterinarians.
Rahway, N.J. – July 10, 2025 – In a significant advancement for canine health, Merck Animal Health announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved BRAVECTO® QUANTUM (fluralaner for extended-release injectable suspension). This innovative product provides 12 months of flea and tick protection for dogs with a single injection, a duration unmatched by currently available systemic treatments. The product is anticipated to be available at veterinary clinics and hospitals across the nation starting in August 2025.
BRAVECTO QUANTUM has already gained approval in several international markets, including Australia and New Zealand in 2023, the European Union in 2024, and now the United States in 2025, demonstrating its widespread potential. Currently approved in over 50 countries worldwide, the product represents a major step forward in preventative parasiticides.
“We take great pride in our company’s leadership in long-acting preventative parasiticides and are excited to offer a convenient option that gives dogs year-round comprehensive protection from fleas and ticks in one easy injection they can receive from their veterinarian,” stated a senior official at Merck Animal Health. “The approval of BRAVECTO QUANTUM sets a new standard in pet care by providing veterinarians and pet parents with a safe and effective option when it comes to flea and tick protection for dogs.”
BRAVECTO QUANTUM is effective against adult fleas and is indicated for both the treatment and prevention of flea infestations ( Ctenocephalides felis). It also provides treatment and control for several tick species, including the black-legged tick (Ixodes scapularis), the American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis), and the brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus) for a full 12 months in dogs and puppies six months of age and older. Protection against the lone star tick (Amblyomma americanum) lasts for eight months in dogs and puppies of the same age.
According to the company, BRAVECTO QUANTUM is the first and only parasiticide offering year-long protection against fleas and ticks with a single dose, surpassing the duration of any other systemic product on the market.
“Though people often think of flea and tick season during the summer months, studies have shown that while fleas and ticks are most active from early spring through the fall, they can be a threat year-round, especially knowing it only takes a few warm days for ticks to become active,” explained Frank Guerino, Ph.D., associate vice president of Global Pharmaceutical Development at Merck Animal Health. “With BRAVECTO QUANTUM, a single dose provides year-long, continuous protection, simplifying care for both pet owners and veterinarians, and promoting compliance.”
The product utilizes a unique, patented composition of fluralaner, allowing for sustained effective levels for up to 12 months. Fleas and ticks not only cause discomfort for pets but also pose significant health risks to both animals and humans, as they can transmit serious diseases. Additionally, fleas can trigger severe allergic dermatitis in dogs and cats. Given that these parasites can survive in both warm and cold temperatures, continuous year-round protection is crucial.
BRAVECTO QUANTUM’s development underscores Merck Animal Health’s commitment to scientific innovation, earning it recognition with both the 2024 Edison Awards and the 2024 S&P Global Awards for Best New Companion Animal Product. For more information, visit us.bravecto.com or follow BRAVECTO on Instagram @ Bravo.us.
BRAVECTO® has been a trusted name in parasite protection since its introduction in 2014, with over 350 million doses distributed across 100 countries over the past eight years. The BRAVECTO product line includes various formulations for both dogs and cats.
The traditional flea lifecycle, lasting up to 12 weeks, can leave gaps in protection with monthly treatments. Continuous protection is vital, regardless of whether a pet spends time outdoors. Contrary to common belief, fleas and ticks are a year-round threat, not limited to spring and summer. These parasites can easily attach to pets and transmit dangerous diseases. Fleas are the most prevalent external parasite affecting pets, and BRAVECTO products are exclusively available through licensed veterinarians.
Important Safety Information: BRAVECTO QUANTUM is indicated for the treatment and prevention of flea infestations (Ctenocephalides felis) and for the treatment and control of tick infestations [Ixodes scapularis (black-legged tick), Dermacentor variabilis (American dog tick) and Rhipicephalus sanguineus (brown dog tick)] for 12 months in dogs and puppies 6 months of age and older. It is also indicated for the treatment and control of Amblyomma americanum (lone star tick) infestations for 8 months in dogs and puppies 6 months of age and older. A U.S. field study reported the most common adverse reactions to include lethargy, decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, elevated liver enzymes, and pruritus. BRAVECTO QUANTUM is not effective against lone star ticks beyond 8 months of dosing. Fluralaner belongs to the isoxazoline class, which has been associated with neurological adverse reactions, including tremors, ataxia, and seizures. Seizures have been reported in dogs receiving isoxazoline drugs, even in those without a prior history. Caution is advised when using BRAVECTO QUANTUM in dogs with a history of seizures or neurological disorders. The product’s safety has not been evaluated in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs, and adverse events have been reported following its use in breeding females. It is approved for use in dogs and puppies 6 months of age and older.
Additional BRAVECTO formulations, such as 1-MONTH Chews, Topical Solutions, and PLUS solutions, have varying indications and safety considerations. It’s important to note that some formulations are not effective against certain tick species or in very young animals. All BRAVECTO products contain fluralaner and carry the same cautions regarding potential neurological adverse reactions. Veterinarians should carefully assess each patient’s health history before prescribing any BRAVECTO product.
Merck Animal Health, a division of Merck & Co., Inc., is dedicated to the health and well-being of animals globally, offering a wide range of veterinary pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and health management solutions. The company invests heavily in research and development and operates a modern global supply chain, serving over 50 countries and making its products available in approximately 150 markets.
