What are ear cleansing/drying products?
Ear cleansing/drying products (e.g., ADL® Ear Flushing Drying Lotion, EarMed® Boracetic®, Epi-Otic® Advanced, MalAcetic®, Maxi/guard® zn 4.5, Otiderm®, and many more) are over-the-counter products used to treat and prevent ear infections in dogs and cats. Some products are also labeled for use in horses and pocket pets (e.g., guinea pigs, rabbits).
These products are typically used in the ears after debris and wax have been removed using a cerumenolytic cleanser, or they may also be used as the primary form of ear cleanser. The main ingredients are drying agents such as isopropyl alcohol or aluminum acetate, and acids such as boric acid or salicylic acid. Some ear cleansing and drying products may have bacterial-fighting effects.
Ear cleansing/drying products may also be used off label as antiseptics for the skin. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
How are ear cleansing/drying products given?
- Ear cleansing/drying products come as a liquid solution that is used topically within the ear canal.
- The frequency and application procedure will differ depending on the patient's specific needs.
- Follow your veterinarian’s directions for application.
- Humans with known hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients found in this product should not handle it.
- Avoid contact with the eyes
- Avoid ingestion and contact your physician immediately should accidental ingestion occur.
It may take several applications before improvement in clinical signs are noted.
What if I miss an application of this product?
If you miss an application of ear cleansing/drying products, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two applications at once.
Are there any potential side effects?
Ear cleansing/drying products may cause the following side effects:
- redness or inflammation at the site of application. If this is noted, discontinue use of the product and contact your veterinarian.
Drug sensitivities can develop over time, with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment. Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Are there any risk factors for this product?
Propylene glycol- and alcohol-containing ear cleansing/drying products should NOT BE USED:
- in patients with eroded, ulcerated, and/or painful and sensitive ears (the alcohol may act as an irritant)
- in patients with a ruptured eardrum
- when the status of a patient’s eardrum cannot be determined
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
Certain medications may interact with ear cleansing/drying products and so it is important to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is using before starting any new treatment. There are no known drug interactions for this product.
Is any monitoring needed with this product?
- At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any side effects occur, discontinue the medication, and contact your veterinarian.
- Your veterinarian will let you know when they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
How do I store ear cleansing/drying products?
- Store this medication in the original, tightly sealed container.
- Store at room temperature and keep from freezing.
- Keep the container out of reach of children and pets.
Ask your veterinarian for specific disposal instructions. Do not flush medicines down the sink or toilet unless instructed to do so.
What should I do in case of emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms.
