Otomax ear drops suspension is labeled for use in canines, but it may also be prescribed to cats and other animals. It should not be given to pregnant or lactating animals, as corticosteroids may cause cleft palate and other birth defects.
Prior to administering Otomax, the infecting organism should be determined via a culture or microscopic roll smear evaluation. This will help determine whether the infecting pathogen is likely to be susceptible to the antibiotic.
Before Otomax is administered, ensure that the animal’s tympanic membrane (eardrum) is not ruptured. If the membrane is damaged, then the use of ear medication could transmit the infection further into the ear, or it could damage the cochlea and other parts of the inner ear.
If nonsusceptible bacteria, fungi, or yeast develop, of if the animal becomes hypersensitive, then Otomax treatment should be discontinued and an appropriate alternative treatment regimen should be determined.
If Otomax is administered for longer than the recommended seven days, then there may be an increased chance of delayed wound healing.
Ensure that the animal does not ingest the medication. Typical signs of corticosteroid overdose include sodium retention, fluid retention, potassium loss, weight gain, polydipsia, and/or polyuria. Long-term use or overdose may compromise the immune system.
The use of corticosteroids may result in inhibited endogenous steroid production (i.e., the inability of the body to produce naturally-occurring steroids). In especially stressful situations, the use of a rapidly-acting corticosteroid should be considered.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is intended to be a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise and professional judgment of your veterinarian. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the treatment of your pet.
Otomax should be stored between 36°F and 77°F (2°C and 25°C). The container should be kept tightly closed and out of reach of children.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is intended to be a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise and professional judgment of your veterinarian. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the treatment of your pet.
Before administering Otomax, clean and dry the animal’s external ear. The treatment area should be trimmed of excessive fur or hair.
Otomax is available in ointment form. It is supplied in 7.5 gram and 15 gram tubes as well as in 15 gram, 30 gram, and 215 gram bottles. Shake the bottles well before using.
Two different doses are assigned, and doses are determined by pet weight. Unless directed otherwise by a veterinarian, a dog weighing less than 30 pounds should be treated with 4 drops in the ear canal twice a day. Dogs weighing 30 or more pounds should receive 8 drops in the ear canal twice daily.
To help distribute the medication, massage the external ear canal after application.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is intended to be a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise and professional judgment of your veterinarian. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the treatment of your pet.
Otomax has been linked to partial hearing loss and deafness in a small number of dogs, especially geriatric patients. The hearing loss is usually temporary. However, if hearing loss is noted during treatment, then treatment should stop immediately and the dog’s ear canal should be flushed with a nonototoxic solution. Otomax may not be appropriate for service dogs and others that especially rely upon hearing.
Gentamicin has the potential to cause cochlear, renal, and vestibular toxicity, especially when it is applied for a long period of time and to denuded skin.
Betamethasone’s side effects include: anorexia and weight loss; vomiting and diarrhea; elevated SAP and SGPT enzymes; polydipsia (excessive thirst); and polyuria (passing an excessive amount of urine).
Clotrimazole has been associated with general skin irritation as well as blistering, peeling, stinging, erythema (redness), edema (swelling), pruritus (itching), and urticaria (hives).
IMPORTANT NOTE: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is intended to be a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise and professional judgment of your veterinarian. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the treatment of your pet.
If a dose is missed, it should generally be given as soon as remembered. If it is nearly time for the next dose, then the missed dose should be skipped altogether and the regular dosing schedule should be resumed.
In case of overdose, contact a veterinarian.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is intended to be a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise and professional judgment of your veterinarian. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the treatment of your pet.
Otomax ear drops suspension should not be used in conjunction with other antibiotics such as neomycin or with drugs known to induce ototoxicity. Inform the veterinarian about any other medications or supplements that the dog is taking, and whether the dog has previously had negative reactions to medications. Also tell the veterinarian if the dog is pregnant or has hearing loss, as Otomax may exacerbate hearing problems.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is intended to be a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise and professional judgment of your veterinarian. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the treatment of your pet.