April 15, 2020

Zoetis received approval in February from the Food and Drug Administration for its new Simparica Trio, the first combination drug that protects dogs from heartworm disease, ticks and fleas, roundworms, and hookworms.

The treatment delivers three active ingredients—sarolaner, moxidectin, and pyrantel pamoate—in a monthly chewable tablet to protect dogs from multiple parasites.

Dr. Chris Adolph, a senior veterinary specialist at Zoetis and diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Microbiologists in parasitology, said the company decided to put these active ingredients together because many veterinarians have been asking for such a drug.

“Many veterinarians are using two or three different products to achieve the goals of protecting against parasites,” Dr. Adolph said. “This gives them the opportunity to protect against all the parasites in one.”

Dr. Adolph added that clients would not have to be selective in their treatment choices because Simparica Trio is just one pill that covers a variety of parasites.

“This is the very first that has been approved that is in one tablet,” Dr. Adolph said. “It’s much needed in the market. ... It will benefit dogs and veterinarians for years to come.”

Zoetis develops and manufactures medicine and vaccines for use by veterinarians, livestock producers, and people that care for farm and companion animals. The animal health company sold products in over 100 countries and earned $6.3 billion in 2019.

Zoetis anticipates Simparica Trio will be available to veterinary customers in April. The tablets will be available in six strengths for dogs and puppies 8 weeks or older and over 2.8 pounds.

The drug will be available by prescription only.

Adverse effects may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, anorexia, otitis externa, pruritus, polyuria, hyperactivity, and polydipsia. See the full safety information (PDF) for the drug.