The antibacterial or antifungal agent Enrofloxacin otic (brand name Baytril otic) is used to treat ear infections in dogs and cats. It’s used as both ‘off label’ or ‘special label’ in cats.
In veterinary medicine, many medications are widely prescribed for off-label use. However, follow the instructions and warnings of your veterinarian very carefully.
How is enrofloxacin administered?
Enrofloxacin is a liquid that has a dropper tip that comes in a tube. Prior to each use, shake the drug well. You may require some help when administering ear drops to your pet, so visit the vet to get the right dosage.
Tilt the head of your pet, so the affected ear is facing upward. To make sure that the lesions in the ear and the ear canal are coated, use enough drops. The number of drops to be added is advised by your veterinarian.
To ensure that the drug is uniformly distributed, gently massage the ear. This drug can take effect rapidly, in around 1 to 2 hours, but it will take several days for the visible effects to be seen.
What if I miss giving the medicine to my pet?
If you miss a dose, administer it to your pet as soon as you recall, but if the time for the next dose is near, skip the missed dose and give the drug at the next scheduled time and resume your daily dosing schedule.
Never give two doses at once to your pet or give additional doses. Even if your pet appears to feel better, it is very important to provide the drug for the length of time that your doctor has prescribed.
Are there any potential adverse reactions?
Hearing loss is a potential side effect of the ear medication. With the application of ear medication, transient vestibular disorders (balance disorders), especially in cats, can occur.
Avoid using the drug and call your doctor if you find out that your pet has balance issues. Some dogs are hypersensitive to enrofloxacin, or allergic to it. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet’s ears get inflamed and red.
Young animals, especially puppies between the ages of 4 and 28 weeks, can develop cartilage problems in their joints. Contact your veterinarian if you find symptoms, such as swollen joints and lameness.
This short-acting drug should stop working within 24 hours, but in animals with liver or kidney disease, the effects can be longer.
Are there any risk factors associated with this drug?
Enrofloxacin otic should not be used on dogs with quinolone or sulfonamide hypersensitivity (allergies). It should not be administered to animals between 4 and 28 weeks of age.
The drug should be used with care in pets:
- That are young
- With a history of central nervous system disorder, including seizures
- That are pregnant or nursing
- With broken eardrums
The application of this substance should be avoided by individuals who are allergic to quinolone compounds. Avoid having eye and skin contact with this drug. In the event of skin touch, wash with soap and water.
In the event of eye contact, rinse for 15 minutes with water. If discomfort occurs or continues, notify your physician.
Are there any interactions with the medication that I should be aware of?
Enrofloxacin can interact with some drugs. It is necessary to tell your veterinarian about any medications that your pet is taking (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies).
Does this drug have some control that needs to be done?
Keep track to ensure that the drug works and note some side effects, such as balance issues or hearing loss.
How do I store Enrofloxacin otic?
Enrofloxacin otic should be kept between 40 ° F and 77 ° F (4 ° C – 25 ° C) in a tightly sealed container and secured against direct sunlight. It is necessary to store the bottle in an upright position.
Call your veterinary office immediately if you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the drug. Follow their guidelines when you call an emergency facility that isn’t available.
Reference
- Enrofloxacin Otic/Silver Sulfadiazine – vcahospitals
