Quick Takeaways:
- A Parasites & Vectors study found Zoetis’ Simparica Trio delivered 99.5% efficacy against ML-resistant Dirofilaria immitis (ZoeLA), versus 98.1% for NexGard Plus, with significantly fewer adult heartworms.
- Adult heartworms were detected in 2/8 (25%) Simparica Trio-treated dogs versus 6/8 (75%) NexGard Plus-treated dogs. None of the Simparica Trio dogs had detectable microfilariae, compared with 1/8 (13%) in the NexGard Plus group.
- Both products contain moxidectin, but Simparica Trio provides a minimum 24 µg/kg dose versus 12 µg/kg for NexGard Plus. The study reported no treatment-related adverse events, highlighting the potential importance of moxidectin dose against resistant isolates.
Why It Matters?
The study could strengthen Simparica Trio’s competitive positioning in heartworm prevention, particularly against ML-resistant isolates, by highlighting its higher moxidectin exposure and lower adult heartworm burden. If reinforced by further evidence, the findings may influence veterinarian preference and intensify competition with NexGard Plus in preventive parasitics.
Source: Businesswire
