Ototop for dogs is a veterinary medicine. The drops are used, among other things, for an external ear infection (otitis externa).
In the following guide we explain what you should consider when using and dosing.
We also go into more detail about the possible side effects and alternatives to Ototop for dogs.
Ototop for dogs: what is it and what is it used for?
Ototop for dogs is used in dogs the under one otitis externa Suffer. Ototop can also be used for dogs with bacterial skin infections.
Ototop for dogs contains three active ingredients:
- Polymyxin B
- prednisolone
- miconazole
Prednisolone is a cortisone, polymyxin B is a so-called peptide antibiotic, and miconazole is an antifungal.
This makes Ototop for dogs effective against the following pathogens:
The cortisone it contains acts as an anti-inflammatory. It also makes the symptomatic itching of ear and skin infections disappear.
The correct use and dosage of Ototop in dogs
The correct dosage of Ototop lies at 3 to 5 drops. This amount refers to a single application.
In total, the dog gets between 6 and 10 drops per day. Ototop should be used twice a day.
Before use, you should note the following:
- clean your hands
- Clean your dog’s ears or skin.
- Gently massage Ototop into the external auditory canal.
The following also applies to skin infections: You must shave the area to be treated beforehand. This will prevent hair from delaying wound healing.
Since this is an external application, you don’t need to consider feeding times.
Important
The vet will determine the correct dosage. He also decides whether the Ototop application is necessary. On the other hand, applications should never be carried out on your own.
How quickly does Ototop work in the dog and how long can I use it on my dog?
The effect of Ototop in the dog arises only after a few days a. Improvements can then be seen.
Ototop is used in dogs for at least 7 consecutive days. The duration of use of Ototop should not be longer than 2 weeks in dogs.
If the infection is persistent, the veterinarian can set the therapy for several weeks. However, it should not exceed 3 weeks.
What side effects can Ototop cause in dogs?
The side effects of Ototop include one temporary deafness in the treated ear. It occurs mostly in older dogs.
Long-term therapy with Ototop can lead to immunosuppression. This is due to the cortisone it contains.
This can also lead to poorer wound healing. Other effects of prednisolone can affect the kidneys.
You should discuss these side effects with your vet beforehand. Incidentally, treatment for a few weeks does not pose a long-term health risk.
You should monitor all side effects closely. If you notice anything unusual, stop the Ototop treatment. Another means should then be used.
When should I not use Ototop on my dog?
No use of Ototop is allowed in dogs with an eardrum injury take place.
Also the following factors exclude the Ototop application:
- Bacterial resistance to polymyxin
- Open or poorly healing wounds
- Hypersensitivity to any of the active ingredients
- Skin infections caused by viruses
There are no application restrictions for pregnant bitches. The situation is different with nursing bitches.
Ototop should not be applied to bacterial mastitis. The cortisone it contains can otherwise be absorbed by the puppies when they are suckling.
Where can I buy Ototop for dogs?
You get Ototop Drops at your vet. You can also buy it in pharmacies.
The active ingredients contained are generally prescription drugs. Inquire if you need a prescription for Ototop for dogs.
What alternatives are there to Ototop for dogs?
If you are looking for alternatives to Ototop for dogs, you will find them among others in the following active ingredients:
- Posaconazole (antifungal)
- Orbifloxacin (antibiotic)
- Mometasone (cortisone)
The combination of the three drugs corresponds to the effect of Ototop. This alternative can be useful if your dog has had bad experiences with Ototop.
Another alternative that helps with three active ingredients is Osurnia for dogs. The drops contain the following medicinal substances:
- Betamethasone acetate (cortisone)
- Terbinafine (antifungal)
- Florfenicol (antibiotic)
Cephalexin, among others, can be used for bacterial skin infections. It is an antibiotic
Your veterinarian will decide which remedies are best for your dog. Of course, he will also explain how they are used and dosed.
In addition to medication, some home remedies can also help. Coconut oil is one way to relieve symptoms of an ear infection in dogs.
Our guide gives you more tips on ear infections in dogs: 5 home remedies that really help.
Important
Home remedies can be a first aid. In the case of a severe course of the disease, however, they do not replace the veterinarian and the necessary veterinary medicines.
Has your dog already had Ototop experiences? We’d love for you to share your experiences with us in the comments.