Dog Ear Infection: Gentamicin/Betamethasone-Otic Treatment Guide

Do you think your dog has an ear infection? Visit Petco for information about dog ear infection signs, symptoms, causes and treatment options.

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Hello, and thanks for your question. Yes, the gentamicin can cause deafness if this medication is used in an ear with a compromised or ruptured ear drum. This is why it's important to see the vet and have them examine the ears prior to starting this (or any) medication. I wouldn't be too worried, however. Yes, deafness is one of the known risks with this medication - but this is a medication we use a LOT in private practice, and the risk of it causing deafness is extraordinarily low. I have never had it happen to any of my patients! If your vet recommended this as the best medication for Briley's ear infection, I would have no hesitation to go ahead and use it. Hope this helps!

Ear infections are usually treated with an antibiotic ointment that is placed directly in the ear and left in the ear to work in between cleanings. A typical schedule of cleanings include cleaning out the affected ear every twelve hours, placing the ointment in the ear, massaging and letting it set. This continues for a period of 7-10 days to completely clear the infection. There are some OTC ear infection ointments available but it is likely you will need to visit your vet for a prescription version. Amoxicillin is a general antibiotic and is more common in other infections such as skin or minor internal infections. It is best to check with your vet to see if it is appropriate for your dog's type of ear infection rather than just giving it. Giving the wrong medication or wrong dosage for the problem can actually make it worse, or even make your dog very ill.

Hello. Otomax is a broad spectrum medication the contains an antibiotic, antifungal as well as a steroid. It is possible that the steroid is preventing the lesion from healing. I would talk to your vet about this & switching to another antibiotic such as silver sulfadiazine. If it still does not heal, the lesion may need to be cultured or biopsied to identify why it is not healing. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Yes, both of these products should help with the infection. the Malacetic solution will treat the fungal / bacterial infection and the Cortavance will help relieve inflammation. Treat as directed by the prescribing veterinarian and if no improvement after 7 days, recheck with the veterinarian as a different medication for the ear may need to be used. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.

Gentamicin can be given by the intramuscular, subcutaneous or intravenous routes. It also comes in topical preparations for eyes, skin and ears. You should only give this drug under guidance from a veterinarian- it can cause serious side effects including kidney failure.

Amoxicillin is an antibiotic and not effective against yeast which is fungal. Contact your vets office to prescribe appropriate medications for him as well as a cleaner to remove as much debris as possible. Sedation may be required if painful

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Depending on the cause of the infection (bacteria or fungi) different medications may be prescribed. Steroids are typically given to reduce inflammation and pain. At times, this action is sufficient to take care of a mild infection because it prevents from further scratching and self trauma. If the Seamus is still having the same signs, he should be seen by his vet, or a different veterinarian for a second opinion. His lethargy may be unrelated, so it is important to have him evaluated for that as well. I hope all is well and that Seamus feels better soon!