Gentocin Topical Spray
Generic Name
Gentamicin Sulfate with Betamethasone Valerate Topical Spray
Indications/Uses
Gentocin topical spray is a prescription drug, which is a combination of the antibiotics gentamicine and betamethasone. It belongs to a class of drugs known as aminoglycosides. The main ingredient of this antimicrobial corticosteroid combination is synthetic corticosteroids. This medication is effective in the treatment of infected superficial lesions in dogs. It is also beneficial in reducing the swelling and itching that usually accompanies the occurrence of lesions.
Precautions
Prior to administering this medication, check for susceptibility of the animal towards its ingredients. Do not extend the treatment for more than 7 days, as there are chances of adverse reactions, with the wound taking longer to heal. While administering the spray, hold the spray bottle 3 to 6 inches away from the lesion. Prolonged or repeated use can cause Cushing’s syndrome in dogs.
Side Effects
Some animals are found to react adversely to the presence of synthetic corticosteroids in gentocin topical spray. The adverse reactions are denoted by symptoms of weight loss, increased thirst and urination, vomiting and diarrhea. In some cases, panting and behavior changes are also noted as occasional side effects. Gentocin, when administered to the animals during the first phase of their pregnancy, can induce parturition, which can cause several congenital anomalies. Some of the harmful effects include fetal death or cleft palate of the newborn animal. At times, dogs administered with this medication produced puppies with deformed legs, phocomelia and anasarca.
Dosage Information
The usual prescribed dosage of gentocin topical spray is two sprays 2 to 4 times a day, for 7 continuous days. Each spray of the medication consists 0.7 ml of gentocin. Period of usage should not exceed the prescribed duration as prolonged usage can induce overgrowth of fungi and yeast. Do not increase the dosage without the prescription of a veterinarian. Adverse immunosuppressive effects are likely to occur due to prolonged or over usage. Use this medication strictly as per veterinary instructions as there are chances of adverse reactions and toxicities to occur.
Brand Names
Gentocin Topical Spray (Schering)