What is aluminum acetate solution + hydrocortisone topical?
Aluminum acetate solution topical (Burow’s solution) + hydrocortisone (Corti-Derm®, Cort/Astrin®, Hydro-B 1020®) is a topical treatment used to relieve inflammation and itchiness in dogs.
Aluminum acetate solution is an astringent and drying agent used for the temporary relief of minor skin irritation such as insect bites, rashes, and allergies. It cleanses, cools, and dries inflamed skin. The addition of hydrocortisone provides anti-inflammatory and antipruritic (anti-itch) properties.
Aluminum acetate solution + hydrocortisone topical is also commonly used to treat ear infections (otitis externa) in dogs due to its antibacterial effects and anti-inflammatory effects.
Generic forms of aluminum acetate solution + hydrocortisone topical can be prescribed off label to treat inflammatory skin conditions and ear infection (otitis externa) in dogs and cats. 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 do I give my pet aluminum acetate solution + hydrocortisone topical?
- Aluminum acetate solution + hydrocortisone topical comes in a topical liquid form.
- This medication should only be used topically.
- This product is usually applied to the skin with a wet compress, dressing or soak. It is applied in the ear with liquid drops administered into the ear canal.
- Follow your veterinarian’s directions and measure liquid forms of this medication carefully.
- Wash your hands after application or wear gloves when applying this medication.
- Avoid contact with the eyes.
- Do not cover the application site with plastic or airtight bandage; allow for drying and evaporation.
- Do not allow your pet to lick or chew the affected sites for at least 20 to 30 minutes after application.
- This medication may suppress reactions to intradermal allergen skin tests. It is recommended that you stop giving this medication 14 days before intradermal skin testing for dogs and cats.
This medication will take effect quickly, in about one to two hours, but its effects may not be noticeable for a few days.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
If you miss an application, give it as soon as you remember and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled application, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.
Are there any potential side effects?
Aluminum acetate solution + hydrocortisone topical may cause the following side effects:
- Dry skin or skin irritation in some patients
- Redness of skin
If you notice excessive skin irritation or if the existing skin irritation or swelling worsens, discontinue this medication, and contact your veterinarian immediately. With long-term use, aluminum acetate solution + hydrocortisone topical may cause the following side effects:
- Changes such as thinning of the skin, increased fragility of the skin, and the development of cysts or blackheads (comedones)
- Decreased production of cortisol (rare)
Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving aluminum acetate solution + hydrocortisone topical and contact your veterinarian immediately:
- An allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face
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. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects may last longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
DO NOT USE aluminum acetate solution + hydrocortisone topical in:
- Pets with a deep skin infection
- Pets with tuberculosis
- Pets that are pregnant, nursing or breeding
- Pets with a known sensitivity to Burow’s solution + hydrocortisone or a previous allergic reaction to this medication
USE WITH CAUTION in:
- Pets that are diabetic
- Pets with Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticsm)
Avoid using aluminum acetate solution + hydrocortisone topical for a prolonged time. Limit to 1 to 2 weeks at a time to prevent potential skin atrophy and systemic absorption.
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
Aluminum acetate, topical + hydrocortisone is not known to have any specific drug interactions. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment. Certain medications should be USED WITH CAUTION when given with oral hydrocortisone but it is unknown whether these same interactions apply with topical hydrocortisone. These medications include:
- Amphotericin B
- Cyclosporine
- Cyclophosphamide
- Erythromycin
- Estrogens
- Furosemide
- Insulin
- Mitotane
- NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin, carprofen, deracoxib)
- Phenobarbital
- Phenytoin
- Rifampin
- Thiazide
Is any monitoring needed with this medication?
- Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
- At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If side effects occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.
How do I store aluminum acetate solution + hydrocortisone topical?
- Store this medication at a controlled room temperature, away from heat and direct sunlight.
- Store this mediation in its original container.
- Keep this medication out of reach of children and pets.
- Ask your veterinarian for disposal instructions. Do not flush medications 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. Report any adverse effects to the FDA or Health Canada.
