In the spotlight: spot-on solutions!
When it comes to parasite treatment, few galenic forms can rival the effectiveness and practicality of spot-on formulations. In this article, we present the characteristics of this essential form in veterinary medicine and how Gattefossé excipients optimize its performance.
What is a spot-on?
Spot-on products are liquid solutions for topical use, applied directly to animal skin, usually between the shoulder blades. Their therapeutic effect can be local or systemic, and it is a widely used formulation for antiparasitics to treat fleas, ticks and mites. This dosage form is easy to use, non-invasive, well-tolerated by animals and allows prolonged release of the active ingredient.
A recognized and widely adopted format
Over the last few years, spot-on formulations have established themselves as the benchmark for animal health. Their ease of application, proven efficacy and acceptability with animals make them the preferred choice for millions of pet owners around the world.
How are spot-ons formulated?
Spot-ons are packaged in single-dose pipettes containing:
One or several active ingredient(s), depending on the parasite(s) targeted;
One or several solvent(s), essential for API dissolution and skin penetration;
Functional excipients that facilitate passage through the skin barrier (stratum corneum), improve bioavailability or stabilize the formulation.
Key parameters include drug solubility, tolerance and safety for the animal and its owner.
How can Gattefossé excipients be used in spot-ons?
Transcutol® V (diethylene glycol monoethyl ether), the most widely used excipient in spot-on formulations, is an effective solubilizer and penetration enhancer. It is also a safe excipient that complies with EP and USP-NF pharmacopoeias. It is registered in the FDA database of inactive ingredients and its safety has been established by numerous toxicological studies, its physico-chemical properties and the precedence of use in many medicines throughout the world. Transcutol® V mechanism of action consists in increasing API solubility and helping it diffuse into the stratum corneum, while ensuring excellent skin tolerance.
Formulated, tested and approved
Our excipients have been successfully used in spot-on formulations for pets. Whether you're aiming for rapid onset of action, sustained release or good skin distribution, we can help you with your formulation strategy.
Beyond anti-parasitics: new perspectives
Today, spot-on products are mainly used for anti-parasite treatments, but their potential does not stop there. This galenic form offers great opportunities for other topical applications, including dermatological treatments (antioxidant care, soothing care), pain management and hormone administration. Thanks to their ability to adapt to different types of API, spot-ons are opening the way to a growing therapeutic diversification.
In a nutshell
Spot-on solutions are practical, effective and widely accepted in
veterinary medicine. They rely on solvents and excipients chosen to ensure solubility, skin penetration and safety. At Gattefossé, we offer excipients such as Transcutol® V, known to improve the bioavailability, stability and efficacy of spot-on treatments. Contact us to incorporate our ingredients into your veterinary formulations!
Animal health
The global veterinary medicines market is growing fast, notably with parasiticides and anti-infectives products. At Gattefossé, we are proud to develop excipients for animal health applications, including oral, topical, transdermal, and injectable forms, aimed for both companion and food-producing animals.
Soft chews, the pet-fect dosage form!
Learn how Gattefossé excipients can be used for this convenient veterinary dosage…
