Stronghold vs Advocate - same thing?

Different molecule. Stronghold is selamectin; Advocate is imidacloprid + moxidectin. Coverage overlaps; vet picks based on what risks the dog faces.

Is Stronghold safe for puppies?

Yes from 6 weeks of age and over 1 kg.

Stronghold price comparison UK

Spot-on parasiticide covering fleas, ear mites, sarcoptic mange and certain worms. Alternative to Advocate. Active ingredient: selamectin. Below: compare UK vet prices with VMD-approved online pharmacies for your dog's weight.

Dog weight (kg)Your vet's price per month (optional, £)

Typical vet price

£18.00–£26.00/mo

indicative UK range

Cheapest online

£5.32/mo

Pet Drugs Online

Annual saving

£152.16–£248.16

after £21 prescription fee: £131.16–£227.16

Based on a 15 kg dog, recommended strength: 120 mg pipette. Assumes 12 months of continuous use (chronic dosing) and one written prescription per year. CMA Order caps the prescription fee at £21 for the first medicine, plus £12.50 per additional medicine on the same prescription. Prices are indicative and last verified 2026-05-15. Always confirm the current price on the pharmacy site before purchase.

Pharmacy	Pack	Pack price	Monthly cost	Buy
Pet Drugs Online VMD approved · Free over £39	3 pipettes	£15.95	£5.32 Best value	Buy from Pet Drugs Online
Animed Direct VMD approved · Free over £29, next-day available	3 pipettes	£16.91	£5.64	Buy from Animed Direct
VetUK VMD approved · Free over £29	3 pipettes	£18.02	£6.01	Buy from VetUK

What Stronghold treats

Spot-on parasiticide covering fleas, ear mites, sarcoptic mange and certain worms. Alternative to Advocate.

Why it costs more at the vet

Zoetis-branded selamectin; routine vet dispensing margin.

Ready to switch? It takes 5 minutes.

Email template, prescription steps and refill setup — the full path from "I just paid too much at the vet" to "I'm saving £X every month".

Open the 5-minute switch guide →

How to get a written prescription

The CMA Order is legally binding by 23 September 2026. Every UK vet must offer a written prescription on request, with the fee capped at £21 for the first medicine plus £12.5 per additional medicine on the same prescription. Take the prescription to any VMD-approved online pharmacy listed above. We have a short guide with a template email you can send to your practice.

Read the full prescription guide →

Common side effects

Local irritation

This is not a complete list. Always read the patient information leaflet and speak to your vet about side effects.

FAQ

Stronghold vs Advocate - same thing?: Different molecule. Stronghold is selamectin; Advocate is imidacloprid + moxidectin. Coverage overlaps; vet picks based on what risks the dog faces.
Is Stronghold safe for puppies?: Yes from 6 weeks of age and over 1 kg.

Related medications

Parasiticide

Advocate (dog)

Monthly spot-on for fleas, mites, lungworm, roundworm and hookworm.

Generic equivalent of Advocate - same active combination at substantially lower cost. Monthly spot-on for fleas, mites, lungworm and intestinal worms.

Fleas and ticks (no worm cover).

Monthly flea and tick chewable. Fast knockdown - fleas typically die within 4 hours.

Track Stronghold price drops

We'll email when Stronghold drops in price at any of the pharmacies above.

Pricing data status: indicative. Last verified 2026-05-15. Pharmacies change prices regularly - always confirm before purchase. Not medical advice.