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PetDosageChart

Revolution (Selamectin) Dosage for Dogs

Macrocyclic lactone (avermectin) antiparasitic ⏱ Onset: 12-36 hours ⏳ Duration: 30 days

This dosage information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet. Dosages may vary based on your pet's health conditions, other medications, and individual factors.

Content reviewed by licensed veterinarians. This information is sourced from veterinary drug references including Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook and the Merck Veterinary Manual.

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Revolution Dosage Chart for Dogs by Weight

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Weight Low Dose Standard Dose Max Dose Frequency
5 lbs (2.3 kg) 14mg 14mg 27.5mg Once monthly (topical)
10 lbs (4.5 kg) 27mg 27mg 54mg Once monthly (topical)
15 lbs (6.8 kg) 41mg 41mg 81.5mg Once monthly (topical)
20 lbs (9.1 kg) 54.5mg 54.5mg 109mg Once monthly (topical)
25 lbs (11.3 kg) 68mg 68mg 135.5mg Once monthly (topical)
30 lbs (13.6 kg) 81.5mg 81.5mg 163mg Once monthly (topical)
40 lbs (18.1 kg) 108.5mg 108.5mg 217mg Once monthly (topical)
50 lbs (22.7 kg) 136mg 136mg 272.5mg Once monthly (topical)
60 lbs (27.2 kg) 163mg 163mg 326.5mg Once monthly (topical)
70 lbs (31.7 kg) 190mg 190mg 380.5mg Once monthly (topical)
80 lbs (36.3 kg) 218mg 218mg 435.5mg Once monthly (topical)
90 lbs (40.8 kg) 245mg 245mg 489.5mg Once monthly (topical)
100 lbs (45.4 kg) 272.5mg 272.5mg 545mg Once monthly (topical)
120 lbs (54.4 kg) 326.5mg 326.5mg 653mg Once monthly (topical)
150 lbs (68 kg) 408mg 408mg 816mg Once monthly (topical)

What is Revolution (Selamectin) used for in dogs?

Flea prevention and treatment Heartworm prevention Ear mite treatment Sarcoptic mange treatment Tick prevention (American Dog tick)

How to give Revolution to your dog

Revolution is a topical (spot-on) treatment applied to the skin — it is NOT given by mouth. Part the fur at the base of the neck between the shoulder blades, and squeeze the entire tube directly onto the exposed skin. Do not rub it in. Apply monthly on the same date. Do not bathe your dog for at least 2 hours before or after application. Keep your dog from licking the application site until dry. A heartworm test is required before starting treatment.

Available Forms

Topical solution

Give with Food?

No — can be given without food

Side effects of Revolution in dogs

Common side effects

Temporary hair loss at application site
Mild skin irritation
Lethargy
Drooling if licked

Serious side effects

  • Seizures (rare)
  • Tremors
  • Severe skin reaction at application site
  • Vomiting and diarrhea if ingested orally

When to call the vet

Call your vet immediately if your dog shows any of these signs:

  • Severe skin irritation, redness, or burns at the application site
  • Seizures, tremors, or incoordination
  • Excessive drooling or vomiting (may indicate the dog licked the product)
  • Persistent lethargy lasting more than 24 hours
  • Finding live fleas or heartworm-positive test despite consistent monthly application

Related Medications for Dogs

Antiparasitic combination (macrocyclic lactone + insect development inhibitor)

Sentinel

Milbemycin oxime / Lufenuron

For Heartworm prevention

View dosage chart
Antiparasitic

Ivomec

Ivermectin

For heartworm prevention

View dosage chart
Antiparasitic combination

Simparica Trio

Sarolaner / Moxidectin / Pyrantel

For flea prevention

View dosage chart
Antiparasitic combination

Heartgard Plus

Ivermectin / Pyrantel

For heartworm prevention

View dosage chart

Sources & References

The dosage information on this page is compiled from the following veterinary and pharmaceutical references:

  • Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook — the standard veterinary pharmacology reference used by veterinarians worldwide.
  • Merck Veterinary Manual — a trusted, peer-reviewed resource for veterinary professionals and pet owners.
  • DailyMed (FDA Drug Labels) — official FDA-approved drug labeling and prescribing information for Selamectin.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply Revolution topically?
Part the fur at the base of the neck (between the shoulder blades where your dog cannot lick), and squeeze the entire tube directly onto the skin. Do not apply to fur only — it must contact the skin. Do not bathe your dog for 2 hours after application. The product spreads across the body through the skin's oil layer.
Can my dog swim or be bathed after applying Revolution?
Wait at least 2 hours after application before allowing your dog to get wet. Once absorbed, Revolution is waterproof and bathing or swimming will not reduce its effectiveness. However, frequent bathing with harsh shampoos may reduce efficacy over time.
Does Revolution protect against all types of ticks?
Revolution provides protection against the American Dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis) but does not cover all tick species. If you live in an area with Lone Star ticks, Black-legged (deer) ticks, or Brown Dog ticks, you may need an additional or alternative tick preventive for comprehensive coverage.
Is Revolution safe for MDR1-mutant breeds?
Selamectin (Revolution) at the recommended topical dose has been shown to be safe for Collies and other breeds with the MDR1 mutation. It has a wide safety margin at approved doses. However, oral ingestion of the topical product should be prevented.
Can I touch my dog after applying Revolution?
Avoid touching the application site until it is fully dry, which usually takes about 2 hours. Once dry, you can pet and handle your dog normally. Wash your hands after application. Keep treated dogs away from children until the application site is dry.

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