What is hydrocortisone aceponate otic?
Hydrocortisone aceponate (HCA) otic (brand name Cortotic®) is a corticosteroid anti-inflammatory drug used to treat inflammation in the external ear canal in dogs.
Any use in other species to treat inflammation in the ears is considered off label (extra label). 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.
This medication is not currently available in the United States.
How is HCA otic given?
- HCA otic is a spray solution used once daily for 7 days.
- This medication is applied directly to the external ear canal using a pump mechanism. DO NOT USE ORALLY.
- Shake well before use.
- Fill the nozzle of the pump before first use, following label instructions.
- Clean and dry the ear before the first application.
- Insert the applicator into the ear canal while keeping the bottle as close to horizontal as possible. The wider area of the end of the cannula should be entirely within the canal. Apply two pumps of medication into the canal.
- Avoid using near open flame.
- Wear gloves or wash your hands after applying HCA otic. If it contacts your skin, wash thoroughly with water.
- Avoid contact with eyes.
- This product may stain certain household surfaces or furniture.
- This otic medication uses a different delivery system than most, so your veterinarian may share a video that shows how to apply it.
This medication should take effect within a few hours and improvement in clinical signs should follow. Contact your veterinarian if no improvement is seen within seven to fourteen days.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
If you miss a dose, give it when 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 doses at once.
Are there any potential side effects?
HCA otic may cause the following side effects:
- Inflammation (redness) of treated area
Rarely, SERIOUS ADVERSE REACTIONS associated with this drug may occur without warning. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving HCA otic and contact your veterinarian immediately:
- Loss of hearing
- Loss of balance
- Head tilt or walking in circles
- Increased drinking and urination
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Progressive ear pain
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 and notify your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately and ensure all follow-up exams are completed as directed by the veterinarian. This short-acting medication should stop working within 1 to 2 days, although residual effects on the applied skin can last longer.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
DO NOT USE HCA otic in:
- Pets with a history of hypersensitivity or allergy to it
- Pets that have a damaged tympanic membrane or ulcerated ear canal
- Pets that are breeding, pregnant, or lactating
USE WITH CAUTION in:
- Pets with liver or kidney disease
- Pets under 4 months of age or less than 4.8 kg (10.5 lb), as safety has not been assessed for these animals
- Pets that require treatment for longer than 14 days
- Pets with suppurative otitis externa
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
Although drug interactions have not been noted with otic use of HCA, it is recommended to avoid using it at the same time as medications that have potential ototoxicity (causing hearing or balance problems).
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any treatment.
Is any monitoring needed with this medication?
- No specific monitoring is needed while your pet is taking this medication.
- Your pet should be rechecked to see if treatment needs to be extended beyond your veterinarian’s recommended treatment time (often seven to fourteen days) and to ensure your pet’s condition is fully resolved.
- At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.
How do I store HCA otic?
- HCA otic should be stored in its original carton at room temperature between 59°F and 77°F (15°C and 25°C).
- Discard six months after opening.
- Keep medication out of reach of children and pets.
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.
