When it comes to protecting our pets, fleas and ticks are a constant concern for many pet parents, and for good reason. These parasites do more than cause itching and discomfort. They feed on your pet’s blood and can transmit serious, sometimes debilitating, diseases. While many medications are available to treat and prevent flea and tick infestations, a common frustration among pet owners is that the protection they offer often doesn’t last long enough.
In a major development for parasite prevention, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Bravecto® Quantum, the first-ever 12-month injectable flea and tick treatment for dogs. For pet parents who want simple, year-round protection with just one vet visit, this could be a real game-changer. It may also serve as a valuable tool for shelters caring for large numbers of dogs. Here’s what you need to know.
What is Bravecto Quantum?
Bravecto Quantum is a prescription injectable medication designed to treat and help prevent flea and tick infestations in dogs. Manufactured by Merck Animal Health, it’s an evolution of the popular Bravecto line, known for oral and topical parasite prevention.
Unlike monthly chews or spot-on treatments, Bravecto Quantum delivers up to 12 months of continuous protection with a single injection administered by your veterinarian for most species of fleas and ticks found on pet dogs.
What Does It Protect Against?
Bravecto Quantum provides treatment and prevention for up to 12 months against:
- Fleas (Ctenocephalides felis)
- Black-legged ticks (Ixodes scapularis)
- American dog ticks (Dermacentor variabilis)
- Brown dog ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus)
Additionally, it protects against:
- Lone star ticks (Amblyomma americanum) for up to 8 months
How Does It Work?
Bravecto Quantum contains fluralaner, a compound classified as an isoxazoline. Once injected under your dog’s skin, it enters the bloodstream and targets fleas and ticks when they bite. Fluralaner affects the nervous system of these parasites, killing them before they can lay eggs or transmit disease (European Medicines Agency, 2023).
FDA Approval and Safety Profile
The FDA granted approval to Bravecto Quantum in July 2025, following multiple safety and efficacy studies. According to Merck Animal Health, the injectable provides sustained protection without the need for monthly doses.
Reported side effects in clinical trials were mild and included temporary swelling at the injection site and occasional gastrointestinal upset. Overall, the safety profile is comparable to other Bravecto products (U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 2025).
Is It Safe for All Dogs?
Bravecto Quantum is approved for use in dogs aged six months and older, provided your veterinarian considers them healthy enough for treatment. However, this does not guarantee it is suitable for every dog over six months of age. If your dog has a history of seizures or other medical conditions, your veterinarian may recommend alternative treatments. Your veterinarian may also recommend alternatives if your dog is breeding, pregnant, or lactating.
Because Bravecto Quantum is a veterinarian-administered injectable, your vet will assess your dog’s medical history before prescribing and giving the injection. Be prepared to discuss your pet’s health background during your appointment. A telehealth consultation is an incredible tool which may better help you assess the safety of this medication for your pet.
📌 Note from Dial A Vet: We do not prescribe medications, including Bravecto Quantum. However, we can help guide you on general flea and tick prevention strategies in a $49 consultation.
What Makes It Different From Other Flea & Tick Treatments?
Bravecto Quantum stands out because it is a single annual injection, providing continuous 12-month protection against most commonly found fleas and ticks. This reduces the risk of missed doses, a common problem with traditional monthly treatments
This long-lasting approach is ideal for busy pet owners or those seeking a hands-off flea and tick prevention solution.
Can You Get Bravecto Quantum Online?
No. Bravecto Quantum is a veterinary-administered injection and cannot be purchased online or given at home. Your veterinarian must administer it during a clinic visit, ensuring correct dosing and monitoring.
Other Factors To Keep In Mind
While Bravecto Quantum is a significant advancement in parasite prevention for dogs, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. A large part of effective parasite control involves environmental management. Even with long-lasting medications, fleas and ticks can survive in your dog’s surroundings. Regular deep cleaning, disinfecting your home, and routinely washing your pet’s bedding, blankets, and favorite resting areas can greatly reduce the risk of reinfestation.
It’s also essential to track when your dog receives their injection. Although a 12-month preventive is ideal for busy pet parents, it’s easy to lose track of time. Keeping a reminder on your phone or in your veterinary records can help ensure you remember when your pet is due for their next dose.
Lastly, while Bravecto Quantum provides 12 months of protection against most fleas and ticks, its protection against the lone star tick lasts only 8 months. If you live in an area where lone star ticks are common—which includes much of North America—your veterinarian may recommend re-administering the medication sooner to ensure continuous protection.
By combining regular home care with timely veterinary treatment, you can help keep your dog protected from parasites all year long.
Summary
Conclusion
Bravecto Quantum is an exciting advancement in flea and tick prevention for dogs, offering year-round protection with just a single injection. For busy pet owners, shelters, or those seeking a low-maintenance solution, this injectable treatment can simplify parasite control while providing reliable protection.
However, it is important to remember that no product is suitable for every dog. Factors such as your pet’s medical history, living environment, and potential exposure to certain medication should always be considered. Consulting your veterinarian is the best way to determine whether Bravecto Quantum is the right option for your pet.
Although this treatment reduces the need for monthly applications, regular care at home is still essential. Keeping your dog’s environment clean and making a note of when the injection was given will help ensure your pet remains protected.
If you are unsure whether this treatment is the best choice for your dog, speaking to a veterinarian from Dial A Vet can help you develop a tailored flea and tick prevention plan that meets your pet’s needs.
Author: Dr Luqman Javed DVM
Dr. Luqman Javed, DVM, is a licensed veterinarian for Dial A Vet and a certified pet nutritionist who shares evidence-based, practical advice to help pet owners confidently care for their animals.
Sources
- European Medicines Agency. (2023). Assessment report: Bravecto Quantum. https://www.ema.europa.eu
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2025). FDA approves first long-acting flea and tick treatment for dogs. https://www.fda.gov
- Merck Animal Health. (2024). Bravecto Quantum prescribing information. https://www.merck-animal-health-usa.com