Zymox Enzymatic Ear Solution with Hydrocortisone (HC)

What is Zymox® Enzymatic Ear Solution with Hydrocortisone (HC)?

Zymox® Enzymatic Ear Solution with Hydrocortisone (HC) is an over-the-counter ear medication that can be used in dogs and cats to treat bacterial and yeast ear infections, ear inflammation, and conditions such as swimmer’s ear. Your veterinarian may recommend it for other species.

Hydrocortisone (HC) is added to the solution to act as an anti-inflammatory agent within the ear. Depending on the degree of inflammation, your veterinarian may prescribe the 0.5% hydrocortisone solution or the 1.0% hydrocortisone solution.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not review non-drug health supplements (e.g., herbals, nutraceuticals, shampoos, and other supplements) for safety or effectiveness before they are sold to the public. Manufacturers of non-drug health supplements must ensure their supplements are safe and labeled accurately. The FDA requires that these non-pharmaceuticals contain a disclaimer that says, “This supplement is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” 

Health Canada licenses “veterinary health supplements” after reviewing safety, efficacy, and manufacturing information provided by the manufacturer. These supplements are not tested by Health Canada.

Your veterinarian is the best source of information about the safety of non-drug health supplements in pets. Just because a supplement is natural does not mean it is safe. All medicines and medicinal plants are potentially toxic if used inappropriately or given at high doses. Supplements can also have side effects, like pharmaceuticals. Few supplements and herbs have been subjected to rigorous scientific trials to determine their efficacy. 

Although the information in this handout may be helpful, it may also be incomplete and may not represent the full range of effects the supplement could have on your pet.

How do I give my pet Zymox® Enzymatic Ear Solution with Hydrocortisone?

• Zymox® Enzymatic Ear Solution with Hydrocortisone is applied topically into the ear canals.
• Shake well before use.
• Apply liberally to un-cleaned ear, filling ear canal. Gently massage and work into the area. Wipe to remove excess.
• Apply once daily for 7 to 14 days as directed by your veterinarian.
• Wash hands after use.
• Do not handle if you have a known sensitivity to hydrocortisone.

This solution will take effect quickly, within 1–2 hours, and improvement in clinical signs should follow.

What if I miss giving my pet the solution?

If you miss a dose, 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 doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects?

Zymox® Enzymatic Ear Solution with Hydrocortisone may cause the following side effects:

• Redness or inflammation at the site of application

Prolonged use of high doses of glucocorticoids such as hydrocortisone, both orally and topically, can suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary axis (HPA) which may lead to the development of diseases of the pituitary and adrenal gland such as Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism).

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. This solution should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this drug/supplement?

DO NOT USE Zymox® Enzymatic Ear Solution with Hydrocortisone in:

• Birds (they are very sensitive to hydrocortisone)
• Pets that are allergic to it

Contact your veterinarian if your animal’s condition does not improve or worsens despite this treatment.

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

There are no documented drug interactions for Zymox® Enzymatic Ear Solution with Hydrocortisone; however, the manufacturer states that no other topical ear products should be used while using Zymox® Enzymatic Ear Solution with Hydrocortisone, as they can interfere with its effectiveness.

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, and herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this supplement?

• At home, monitor for any abnormal changes. If any occur, discontinue the supplement and contact your veterinarian.
• Your veterinarian will let you know when they want to reassess your pet to ensure the solution is working and not causing side effects.

How do I store Zymox® Enzymatic Ear Solution with Hydrocortisone (HC)?

• Store at room temperature in a tightly sealed container.
• Keep away from heat.
• Keep the top on the bottle when not in use.
• Keep out of the reach of children.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the supplement, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Adverse effects should also be reported to the FDA or Health Canada.