If your dog is suffering from an external canine ear infection, your vet may have recommended treatment with a liquid topical medication called Zymox Otic. Here's some information about this medication.
Zymox Otic
Zymox Otic has proven very effective against infections of the dog's outer ear. Two versions of the medicine are sold: one with hydrocortisone (an anti-inflammatory ingredient used to reduce itching) and another version without it.
The medicine treats viral, bacterial and yeast infections with a formula based on three enzymes naturally found in milk. They are lactoperoxidase, lysozyme and lactoferrin. The manufacturers state that these three substances working together produce a very powerful antimicrobial effect.
Zymox Otic is also effective against ear mites. Infections of the inner and middle ear are clinically very different from outer ear infections. If symptoms persist after using Zymox Otic, discuss the problem with your vet.
Both versions of Zymox Otic are sold over the counter; no prescription is necessary.
Zymox Side Effects
No side effects have been reported with use of Zymox Otic and no allergic reactions to either version of Zymox Otic have been reported.
There have been no reports of overdose when using Zymox Otic.
How to use Zymox Otic
Do not use cleaners of any kind to wash your dog's ears before applying Zymox Otic. Apply it liberally and directly in both ear canals. Gently massage the infected area to work the medicine in. Wipe away excess solution and allow your dog to shake his head to remove any excess fluid.
If the infection is acute you should give your dog Zymox Otic once a day for seven days. If the infection is chronic then treat your dog once daily for fourteen days.
Zymox Otic can be reused periodically to prevent any recurrence of chronic canine ear infections.
Dogs with long floppy ears are particularly prone to ear infections. This is especially true for cocker spaniels, which suffer from ear infection more than any other breed. Part of your treatment program should be regular attention to cleaning and grooming your dog's ears. This could be very effective in putting a stop to chronic infection.
Cautions
- Do not use Zymox Otic with any other topical medication because this may hamper or destroy the enzyme action of its ingredients. Notify your vet you are using Zymox Otic if your dog is being treated with any oral medication for infections.
- Zymox Otic is only for use on animals.
- If your dog has open sores or wounds in the infected area, it is recommended that you use Zymox Otic without hydrocortisone until any broken skin is fully healed.