Pharmacotherapeutic group: Otologicals containing corticosteroids and anti-infectives in combination.
ATCvet code: QS02CA01
Pharmacodynamic properties
The veterinary medicinal product is effective against the micro-organisms commonly associated with otitis externa, including the ear mite, Otodectes cynotis and are specifically formulated for the treatment of otitis externa in the dog and cat.
Diethanolamine fusidate: Fusidic acid (present in the veterinary medicinal product as the Diethanolamine salt) is an antibiotic which is highly active against Staphylococci, the most commonly found bacterial pathogen in otitis externa in the dog and cat. Fusidic acid has skin penetrating properties which enhances its antibacterial properties.
Framycetin sulphate: Framycetin sulphate is a broad spectrum antibiotic which has been incorporated for its activity against Gram-negative organisms associated with otitis externa, in particular Pseudomonas spp. and Proteus spp.
Nystatin: Nystatin is highly active against yeasts. The yeast, Malassezia pachydermatis is associated with otitis externa in the dog and cat either by itself or with other organisms.
Prednisolone: Prednisolone is incorporated for its anti-inflammatory and anti-pruritic activity.
All four active ingredients are suspended in oil. A bland oil is used which softens and dissolves ceruminous material and readily penetrates the ear canal. Additionally, the oil used does not matt the hair around the ear, which would prove objectionable to both animal and owner.
Clinical trials have demonstrated that the veterinary medicinal product is effective in the treatment of the ear mite, Otodectes cynotis, in the dog and cat. The mode of action is uncertain as none of the components in the veterinary medicinal product have recognised acaricidal activity.
Pharmacokinetic properties
Fusidic acid and Framycetin are not absorbed into the systemic circulation when used topically. In contrast, prednisolone can in some cases be absorbed when used topically.