NexGard vs Simparica vs Bravecto vs Credelio: what's the difference?
How NexGard, Simparica, Bravecto and Credelio compare: what each is for, how it works, side effects and cost, side by side.
Last updated: October 2026 · 4 sources · see sources
Side by side
| NexGard | Simparica | Bravecto | Credelio | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Generic name | Afoxolaner | Sarolaner | Fluralaner | Lotilaner |
| Brand names | NexGard, NexGard Plus, NexGard Spectra | Simparica, Simparica Trio, Revolution Plus | Bravecto, Bravecto Plus | Credelio, Credelio Cat, Credelio Quattro |
| For | Dogs | Dogs and cats | Dogs and cats | Dogs and cats |
| Prescription | Prescription | Prescription | Prescription | Prescription |
| Used for | A monthly chew that kills fleas and ticks in dogs and helps prevent Lyme disease. [1] | Kills fleas and ticks in dogs. Combined products also cover heartworm and worms, and Revolution Plus is made for cats. [2] | Kills fleas and ticks for up to 12 weeks in dogs and cats. Sometimes used for mange and ear mites. [3] | Kills fleas and treats and controls several kinds of ticks in dogs and cats. [4] |
| How it works | It spreads through the dog's body, and fleas and ticks die after biting. [1] | Absorbed into the body; fleas and ticks are killed when they feed. [2] | After it is given, it spreads through the body. Fleas and ticks are exposed when they bite and are killed. [3] | Absorbed into the body; fleas and ticks die after biting. [4] |
| Common side effects | Very few in most dogs. Vomiting and diarrhea can happen. [1] | Vomiting, diarrhea and low appetite. [2] | Vomiting, diarrhea, low appetite and flaky skin. [3] | Vomiting, diarrhea, low appetite and flaky skin. [4] |
| Use with care | An isoxazoline: the FDA has warned of possible tremors, wobbliness and seizures. Not for puppies under 8 weeks or 4 pounds unless your vet says so. [1] | The single-drug Simparica chew is not for cats. An isoxazoline, so use caution in pets with seizures. [2] | It belongs to the isoxazoline class, which the FDA says has been linked to tremors, wobbliness and seizures in some pets. Tell your vet if your pet has ever had a seizure. [3] | An isoxazoline, so use caution in pets with seizures. Not for kittens under 8 weeks. [4] |
| Full guide | NexGard guide | Simparica guide | Bravecto guide | Credelio guide |
Key differences
- They aren't made for the same animals: NexGard is for dogs; Simparica is for dogs and cats; Bravecto is for dogs and cats; Credelio is for dogs and cats.
Which one is right for my pet?
That is a call for your vet. They weigh your pet's age, weight, other health problems, other medicines and what you can realistically give at home.
Switching between these is common, but do it only with your vet's plan.
Common questions
What is the difference between NexGard, Simparica, Bravecto and Credelio?
All four belong to the same family of flea and tick medicines that work from inside the body. The biggest differences are how long a dose lasts, which species each is made for, and what combination products exist.
Is NexGard better than Simparica?
Neither is better for every pet. Your vet chooses based on your pet's species, age, health history, other medicines and what you can manage at home.
Can my pet take NexGard, Simparica, Bravecto and Credelio together?
Only if your vet says so. Some medicines in the same family should not be combined, and others are often used together. Always check before adding or switching.
Do NexGard, Simparica, Bravecto and Credelio need a prescription?
NexGard: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian. Simparica: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian. Bravecto: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian. Credelio: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian.
Related
This page is general information for planning, not veterinary advice. Talk to your vet about your own pet.