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Lufenuron (brand name Program®) is an insect growth regulator that controls flea infestations in dogs, cats, rabbits, and ferrets. It is frequently found in combination with other medications such as milbemycin and/or praziquantel (brand names: Sentinel®, Spectrum®).
Lufenuron works as a growth inhibitor: an adult flea must feed on a treated animal to ingest the drug, and any eggs produced by this adult will not survive. It does not kill adult fleas, nor does it repel fleas. Because the effects target offspring, the overall flea control effects can take several months. Therefore, this medication works better in combination with other products for long-term control as opposed to a sole therapy.
This medication can take up to a few weeks before full effects are noted; however, effects may not be noted outwardly.
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. For example, if you forgot to give your pet their dose on June 1 and remember on June 18, give the dose on June 18 and resume your dosing schedule starting on July 1. Contact your veterinarian if you are concerned about a missed dose.
Lufenuron may cause the following side effects:
Serious side effects are rare, but may include:
This long-acting medication may last up to 4–6 weeks and may last longer in pets with kidney or liver disease.
This medication is considered safe in pregnant, breeding, and lactating pets.
There are no drug interactions reported at this time. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking.
Store at room temperature between 59°F and 77°F (15°C and 25°C). Exposure to temperatures outside this range for less than 48 hours should not affect the medication.
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.
© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Last updated on Sep 30, 2024.
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We are currently seeing regular, urgent care and surgical appointments using curbside service only. We are still restricting lobby traffic at this time and are keeping our door locked. Please call our office at 803-469-6077 for additional instructions. Upon arrival please remain in your vehicle and one of our staff will come out to greet you as soon as possible Due to limited staffing you may get our voicemail system when you call. Please leave a message as we check this frequently during the day. We hope to be back to normal lobby hours and services in the near future.
1230 Wilson Hall Road Sumter, South Carolina, 29150
Phone: 803-469-6077 Email: contact@advancedvethospital.com
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