Otomax ^® Ointment (Brand)

What is Otomax?
Otomax is an ointment used to treat ear infections. It is a combination steroid, antibacterial, and antifungal ear medication labeled for use in dogs.

Who is it for?
Otomax is labeled for use in dogs, but veterinarians may prescribe it for other animals including cats and many other species of animals.

What are the benefits?

Otomax is an effective combination steroid, antibacterial, and antifungal ointment used to treat acute and chronic ear infections. The active ingredients are betamethasone valerate, a steroid; gentamicin sulfate, an antibiotic; and clotrimazole, which is antifungal. These ingredients work together to combat painful infections of the ear.

How does Otomax work?
Otomax treats acute and chronic otitis (ear infection) with gentamicin (an antibiotic) and betamethasone (a corticosteroid). This combination is approved for the treatment of inflammation and bacterial infections of the ear. Also contains clotrimazole, for the effective treatment of fungal (yeast) infections of the ear.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
Branded generic equivalents include DVMax.

How is it given?
Follow treatment instructions carefully, since incorrect treatment can result in recurring infections and damage to the ear. The external ear should be clean and dry before application. Excessive hair should be trimmed from the treatment area. Apply the prescribed amount of this topical ointment in the ear and gently massage the ear to distribute the medication. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian.

What results can I expect?
Otomax will help to relieve the symptoms and kill the organisms causing ear infections. This medication is not labeled for use beyond 7 days, since it could delay wound healing. If symptoms persist after the end of the treatment period, contact your veterinarian.

What form(s) does it come in?
Topical ointment.

Please click on "More Information" for possible drug and food interactions with this medication.

Brand Name
Otomax

Pronunciation
OTO-max

Common Drug Name
Gentamicin and betamethasone with clotrimazole

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Otomax?
Your veterinarian should examine your pet's ear to make sure the eardrum is intact.

Have your veterinarian or veterinary technician show you how to properly clean the ear and apply Otomax.

Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your dog is taking, and if your dog has had any reactions to previous medications. Also, tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant or has any hearing loss.

What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the application you missed and go back to the regular schedule.

What is the most important information I should know?
The ear should be clean and dry before applying Otomax. Otomax should not be used in animals with perforated eardrums. Always follow your veterinarian's directions on the use of this medication.

Who should not take it?
Do not use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to any of the ingredients. It should not be used in animals with a perforated eardrum. Do not use in animals who require their hearing to perform their work (military dogs, police dogs, seeing eye dogs, hearing dogs, etc.) as there may be hearing or vestibular (balance) impairment.

What side effects may be seen when taking Otomax?
May see loss of hearing or balance. These effects are usually temporary. If ingested, the most common side effect of corticosteroids is an increase in the amount of drinking and urinating. Less common side effects are an increased appetite and weight gain, panting, diarrhea, vomiting, and behavior changes. If your pet experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, a sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma.

Corticosteroids, if given at high doses or for extended periods, can cause delayed wound healing and immunosuppression resulting in an increased risk of bacterial or fungal infections.

How is it stored?
Store at room temperature. Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
Early signs of overdose/toxicity include loss of hearing and balance or vomiting. If you see these signs, or know or suspect there has been an overdose, contact your veterinarian immediately. If irritation of the ear occurs that was not present before starting treatment with Otomax, contact your veterinarian.

What should I avoid when giving my pet Otomax?
Do not administer other corticosteroids during treatment with this medication unless prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not use in combination with other similar antibiotics, such as neomycin. Prevent ingestion of the medication. If ingested at high doses or for extended periods, corticosteroids can cause premature birth especially toward the end of pregnancy. In dogs, rabbits, and rodents, corticosteroids can cause birth defects.

Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the Patient Information Sheet on this medication.