Vetropolycin with Hydrocortisone
Generic Name
Bacitracin-neomycin-polymyxin With Hydrocortisone Acetate 1% Veterinary Ophthalmic
Indications/Uses
Vetropolycin with Hydrocortisone is used in the treatment of acute or chronic conjunctivitis. The three antibiotics present in Vetropolycin with Hydrocortisone, namely Bacitracin, Neomycin, and Polymyxin, provide effective action against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria that are commonly involved in infections of the eyes. This preparation is effective against many bacteria such as Pseudomonas and Staphylococcus. Hydrocortisone acetate is effective in suppressing inflammation in many disorders of the anterior segment of the eye. In cases such as lesions of the cornea, local application of the preparation may provide rapid relief from pain and photophobia.The combination of antibiotics with anti-inflammatory provides effective treatment of many disorders of the anterior segment of the eye.Every gram of Vetropolycin with Hydrocortisone contains Polymyxin B Sulfate 10,000 units, Bacitracin Zinc 400 units, Neomycin Sulfate 5 mg (equivalent to 3.5 mg of Neomycin Base) and Hydrocortisone Acetate 10 mg (1%), in a base of White Petrolatum and Mineral Oil.
Precautions
It is not advisable to use ophthalmic preparations containing corticosteroids in the treatment of deep, ulcerative lesions of the cornea where the inner layer (endothelium) is involved, in fungal infections and in the presence of viral infections.Occurrence of sensitivity to the use of Vetropolycin with Hydrocortisone Ophthalmic Ointment is very rare. However, if any reaction occurs, immediately discontinue the use of the preparation. Similar to any antibiotic preparation, prolonged use should be avoided as it may result in the overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms including fungi. Necessary steps should be adopted if this occurs. Diagnosis and therapy should be reassessed if the infection is not responding to the treatment in two or three days. Animals being treated with this preparation should be observed for usual signs of corticosteroid overdose such as polydipsia, polyuria and occasional weight increase.While applying the preparation, great care needs to be taken to avoid contaminating the applicator tip of the tube.
Side Effects
This preparation may cause itching, burning or inflammation in animals sensitive to Vetropolycin with Hydrocortisone. In such cases treatment should be discontinued as soon as possible. Parenteral or systemic use of synthetic corticosteroids in dogs has resulted in SAP and SGPT (ALT) enzyme elevations, polydypsia and polyuria. Vomiting and diarrhea (occasionally bloody) have been observed in dogs. Prolonged or repeated steroid therapy may cause Cushing’s syndrome in dogs.
Dosage Information
Before applying the preparation, the infected area should be properly cleansed. Any crusted exudates, debris, and foreign bodies found should be removed carefully. A thin film of the ointment should be applied over the cornea three or four times daily in dogs and cats. A small quantity of the ointment should be applied into the conjunctival sac in dogs and cats by inserting the tip of the tube beneath the lower lid.
Brand Names
Vetropolycin HC (Pharmaderm), Cortisporin (King), Neobacimyx-H (Schering Plough)