NexGard Spectra vs Advocate
A detailed comparison of NexGard Spectra and Advocate for dogs. Which is the better choice? We compare ingredients, dosing, price, and side effects.
NexGard Spectra
Monthly chewable tablet covering fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms including lungworm. An oral all-in-one.
Advocate
Monthly spot-on covering fleas, lungworm, roundworm, hookworm, and ear mites. Does not cover ticks.
Save on NexGard Spectra or Advocate at a UK pharmacy
UK registered pharmacies dispense the same prescription medications as your vet, often for less. Ask your vet for a written prescription, then fill it online.
Affiliate links to The Pharm Pet Co., a UK registered veterinary pharmacy. We may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Always follow your vet's guidance on medication choice and dosing.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | NexGard Spectra | Advocate |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Afoxolaner + Milbemycin Oxime | Imidacloprid + Moxidectin |
| Form | Chewable tablet | Spot-on pipette |
| Frequency | Monthly | Monthly |
| Species | Dogs | Dogs |
| Price Range | £8–£18/month | £8–£16/month |
Key Differences
Tick protection
NexGard Spectra kills ticks; Advocate does not.
Ear mites/mange
Advocate treats ear mites and sarcoptic mange; NexGard Spectra does not.
Form
NexGard Spectra is an oral tablet; Advocate is a spot-on.
Bathing
NexGard Spectra allows immediate bathing; Advocate requires a 48-hour wait.
Choosing
NexGard Spectra for tick-exposed dogs; Advocate for dogs with ear/skin mite issues.
Pros & Cons
NexGard Spectra
Pros
- Covers ticks — Advocate does not
- Oral tablet — no greasy residue
- Dogs can be bathed/swim immediately
- Covers whipworm in addition to other worms
Cons
- No ear mite or mange coverage
- Prescription only
- Isoxazoline (rare neurological side effects)
- Does not cover tapeworm
Advocate
Pros
- Covers ear mites and sarcoptic mange
- Kills fleas on contact (no bite needed)
- Well-established safety profile
- Covers all the same worms plus ear mites
Cons
- No tick coverage
- Spot-on — greasy residue for 24–48 hours
- Must not bathe for 48 hours
- Does not cover tapeworm or whipworm
Compare Prices & Save
Both NexGard Spectra and Advocate may be cheaper from a licensed online retailer than from your vet. Ask for a written prescription and compare prices.
Important: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your vet before starting, stopping, or switching your pet's medication. Prices shown are typical UK ranges and may vary by product size, weight band, and retailer.
Alternative options to consider
Retailers we earn a commission from. It costs you nothing and never changes what we show.
VetBox Flea & Worm Protection for Dogs
Vet-founded monthly parasite subscription. Flea, tick and worm protection delivered to your door. Founded by Dr Will Woodley, protecting 30,000+ pets.
Pet Wormers at Pharmacy2U
Drontal, Milbemax and own-brand wormers dispensed by the UK's largest online pharmacy.
Flea & Tick Treatments for Dogs
Vet-strength flea and tick treatments at pharmacy prices. Frontline, Advocate, Bravecto, Nexgard and more.
We may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you.