Early efficacy matters for canine otitis externa

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Otitis externa is a common issue in dogs, often causing significant discomfort, pain, and distress. While it’s troublesome for canine patients, it can also be quite stressful for their owners who seek swift solutions. In a recent study—presented by Joya Griffin, DVM, DACVD, at the 10th World Congress of Veterinary Dermatology—a comparative analysis was performed between a hydrocortisone aceponate, miconazole nitrate, gentamicin sulfate otic suspension (EASOTIC®, Virbac) and a leading brand.¹ This study aimed to evaluate not just the long-term efficacy of the treatments, but also their ability to provide early relief—something that pet owners highly prioritize. The findings offer valuable insights when determining the best course of treatment for dogs suffering from this uncomfortable condition.

Traditionally, clinical studies assessing the effectiveness of otitis externa treatments have focused on results after several weeks of treatment. However, this particular study took a different approach by examining the relief provided at earlier intervals—specifically on days 0, 2, 7, and 28 of treatment. The goal was to determine which product offered faster relief for common symptoms like ear discharge, stenosis, and odor, which are key indicators of inflammation and infection.

Both products contained a combination of antibiotic, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory agents, which are essential in combating the infection and inflammation associated with otitis externa. However, the focus of the study was to see which product delivered faster results in the critical early stages of treatment.

Key findings

The study involved 86 dogs diagnosed with acute otitis externa, non-parasitic, with an OTIS-3 score ≥ 5 and with cytological evidence of the presence of bacteria and/or yeast were included. These dogs were evaluated by veterinarians on several parameters, including the reduction of symptoms like ear discharge, stenosis, and odor. By day 28, both EASOTIC and the leading brand demonstrated high levels of efficacy, but the major difference came in the earlier stages of treatment. According to the results:¹

• By day 2, EASOTIC had already significantly reduced discharge, stenosis, and odor compared to the leading brand.
• By day 7, dogs treated with EASOTIC showed a greater overall improvement, with veterinarians reporting excellent responses to treatment in 49% of the cases, compared to 29% for CLARO®.
• The improvement in symptoms such as ear odor and dirtiness was also more pronounced in the EASOTIC group by day 7.

The role of anti-inflammatory components

One of the key factors contributing to the faster relief provided by EASOTIC may be its anti-inflammatory component, hydrocortisone aceponate. This unique ingredient is known for its potent anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce swelling and irritation more rapidly than some other treatments. In contrast, the leading product contains mometasone furoate, another effective anti-inflammatory, but the study’s results suggest that hydrocortisone aceponate may provide quicker symptom relief in the early stages. Inflammation is one of the primary drivers of discomfort in otitis externa, and reducing it as swiftly as possible is beneficial for improving the dog’s well-being.

Conclusion

These early results show EASOTIC may provide faster relief than a leading brand in the early stages of treatment for canine otitis externa. Veterinarians may consider these findings when recommending treatment options, especially in cases where quick symptom relief is a priority for both the dog and its owner.

Reference

1. Von Simson C, Poincelot L, Jasmin P, et al. Comparison of the efficacy of a gentamicin, miconazole and hydrocortisone aceponate formulation and a florfenicol, terbinafine and mometasone furoate formulation in the treatment of canine otitis externa with a focus on onset of action. Paper presented at: 10th World Congress of Veterinary Dermatology; July 25-29, 2024; Boston, MA. Session P-36.