Cortisoothe® Shampoo

GENERIC NAME:

Hydrocortisone shampoo

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Hydrocortisone shampoo provides temporary relief of inflammation and itching caused by, allergic conditions, insect bites, and other minor skin irritations. This shampoo is specifically formulated for the topical treatment of dermatologic conditions responsive to corticosteroids. For use in dogs, cats and horses. Hydrocortisone shampoo is available in 0.5% and 1% strengths, and several sizes (e.g. 8 oz and 16 oz).

WHAT IS THIS DRUG?

• Hydrocortisone is a member of the glucocorticoid class of hormones; a steroid
• Some products have additional ingredients (e.g. oatmeal and/or aloe to soothe and moisturize the skin)
• Used topically

REASONS FOR PRESCRIBING:

• Used for the temporary relief of inflamed areas, to decrease swelling, redness, itching and allergic reactions

Read and carefully follow directions provided by your veterinarian.
Shake bottle well before using.
Wet coat thoroughly before applying shampoo. Apply shampoo to head (avoiding eyes) and ears (outsides only), neck, chest, middle and hind quarters, finishing with the legs. Massage shampoo into the wet coat until a rich lather is produced. Allow the lather to remain on the animal for 5-10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly. For best results, repeat procedure.
Follow your veterinarian’s advice on the frequency of product application, as products vary.
The frequency and length of use of this product depends upon the condition being treated and your animal’s response to the medication.
Typically, Hydrocortisone shampoo is used 2-3 times per week for the 3-4 weeks, and then once weekly as the animal’s condition improves.
If your pet has a skin infection as well, an appropriate antifungal or antibiotic may have been prescribed as well.
Wash hands after each use. In a clinical setting, gloves should be worn when performing multiple applications of this product.

WHAT ANIMALS SHOULD NOT USE THIS MEDICATION?

• Use with caution in breeding, pregnant or nursing animals
• Hydrocortisone shampoo is not effective against parasitic infections (ie. fleas, ticks, etc.)
• Animals with infections unless antimicrobial (antibiotics) therapy is also given
• Use with caution in diabetics or those with Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism)
• If your animal has had an allergic reaction to Hydrocortisone or other steroids

WHAT IF A TREATMENT IS MISSED?

If a treatment is missed, perform it as soon as you can. If it is time already for the next treatment, skip the missed treatment and go back to the normal schedule.

STORAGE AND WARNINGS:

Store at controlled room temperature away from heat and direct sunlight. Keep bottle tightly closed when not in use.
Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. In case of contact, flush eyes with water and seek medical attention if irritation persists.
For topical use only on dogs, cats and horses. Wash hands after use.
Keep this and all medication out of reach of children and pets.
Call your physician immediately if you accidentally ingest this product.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS:

• If redness, irritation, or swelling persists or increases, discontinue use and consult your veterinarian
• The most common side effect of ingesting topical steroids (or if using large quantities) is increased drinking and urination. Less commonly, you may notice an increased appetite plus weight gain, panting, diarrhea, vomiting, and behavioral changes.
• If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian

CAN THIS DRUG BE USED WITH OTHER DRUGS?

• Yes, but possible interactions with glucocorticoids may occur with amphotericin B, cyclosporine, cyclophosphamide, erythromycin, estrogens, furosemide, insulin, mitotane, NSAIDS (aspirin, carprofen, deracoxib, etc), phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifampin, thiazide, some vaccines, supplements and vitamins. Let your veterinarian know what products you give your animal.
• If your pet experiences any unusual reactions when taking multiple medications, contact your veterinarian.

OVERDOSING?

Overdosing is unlikely to occur if used as directed, but contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect an overdose, or if you observe any unusual signs.

WHAT TO TELL/ASK VETERINARIAN BEFORE GIVING MEDICATION?

• When will your animal needs to be rechecked
• What tests may need to be performed prior to and during treatment with this drug
• What are the risks and benefits of using this drug

• If your animal has experienced side-effects on other drugs/products
• If your animal has experienced digestive upset now or ever
• If your animal has experienced liver or kidney disease now or ever
• If your animal has experienced any other medical problems or allergies now or ever
• All medicines and supplements that you are giving your animal or plan to give your animal, including those you can get without a prescription. Your veterinarian may want to check that all of your animal's medicines can be given together.
• If your animal is pregnant or nursing or if you plan to breed your animal

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW?

Notify your veterinarian if your animal's condition does not improve in 7-10 days or worsens despite this treatment.

As with all prescribed medicines, Hydrocortisone shampoo should only be used on the animal for which it was prescribed. It should be used only for the condition for which it was prescribed.

This is just a summary of information about Hydrocortisone shampoo. If you have any questions or concerns about Hydrocortisone shampoo or the condition it was prescribed for, contact your veterinarian.