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What is the most important information I should know about Otomax:Otomax is a
prescription medicine FDA approved for veterinary use in dogs. Otomax is available in 7.5gm,
15gm and 30gm tubes. Each gm contains gentamicin sulfate equivalent to 3mg gentamicin base,
betamethasone valerate equivalent to 1mg betamethasone and clotrimazole 10mg. Prior to use the
external ear should be cleaned and dried and excessive hair should be clipped from the
treatment area. Otomax should not be used in pets with perforated ear drums.
What is Otomax: Otomax is an antimicrobial, corticosteroid and
antifungal combination used on dogs for the treatment of acute and chronic otitis externa
associated with yeast and/or bacteria susceptible to gentamicin. Otomax may also be used for
purposes other than those listed.
What should I discuss with my veterinarian before using Otomax on my
pet: Do not use Otomax if the pet has a viral or fungal infection. Tell your veterinarian
if your pet is pregnant or lactating.
How should this medication be used: Use this medication exactly
as directed by your veterinarian. If you do not understand the directions ask the pharmacist or
veterinarian to explain them to you. The usual dose for dogs less than 30 lbs is 4 drops into
the ear canal twice a day, and for dogs over 30 lbs use 8 drops into the ear canal twice a day.
Store Otomax at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of the reach of
children or pets.
What happens if I miss applying a dose: Apply the missed dose as
soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip
the missed dose and apply the next one as directed. Do not give a double dose of the
medication.
What happens if I overdose the pet: An overdose of this
medication is unlikely. If an overdose is suspected, seek emergency veterinary medical
treatment.
What should I avoid while applying Otomax to my pet: Do not use
this medication in pets allergic to it or any of the individual ingredients. Do not use in dogs
with perforated ear drums. Discontinue use of this medication and contact the veterinarian if
hearing loss is noted during treatment. Treatment beyond 7 days may lead to prolonged wound
healing.
What are the possible side effects of Otomax: Side effects
associated with this medication are related to the individual ingredients. Gentamicin, while
absorbed poorly from the skin, when applied topically to large wounds, burns, or denuded skin
for prolonged periods of time has a potential for reversible or irreversible ear and kidney
toxicity. Following the use of injected or oral corticosteroids, side effects such as weight
loss, loss of appetite, increased thirst and urination and vomiting and diarrhea may occur.
Betamethasone is a corticosteroid but is applied topically. In humans, clotrimazole has been
observed to occasionally cause redness of the skin, stinging, blistering, peeling, fluid
retention, itching, hives and general irritation of the ski. Continue the medication and talk
to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to the animal.
What other drugs will affect Otomax: Before using Otomax, tell
your veterinarian if your pet is using other antibiotic, antifungal or corticosteroid
medications either topically or by mouth. Talk to the veterinarian or pharmacist before giving
any prescription or over the counter medicines.
Where can I get more information: Your pharmacist has additional
information about Otomax written for health professionals that you may read.
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