Merial receives EU approval of NexGard Spectra parasite control aid

Merial has announced that its new chewable parasite control agent NexGard has been approved by the European Commission.

The soft, beef-flavored chew provides a broad spectrum of internal and external parasite control for dogs in a single monthly dose. It can be used to treat flea and tick infestations and intestinal worms, while helping to prevent against heartworm disease.

Available in five different chew sizes for dogs of different weights, it is a novel combination of two active ingredients – the ectoparasiticide afoxolaner and the endoparasiticide milbemycin oxime.

This follows on from the launch of the original NexGard, which was the first monthly beef-flavored chew for the treatment of flea and tick infestations in dogs, less than 12 months ago.

Carsten Hellmann, Merial chief executive officer and Sanofi executive vice-president, said: "NexGard Spectra is another example of Merial's commitment to deliver innovative products that improve the health and wellbeing of animals."

Earlier this month, the firm announced the UK debut of a new and updated version of its horse flu vaccine ProteqFlu, offering a more comprehensive mechanism of action.