Mometasone Furoate Combination

What is mometasone furoate combination?

Mometasone furoate combination (brand names: Mometamax®, Posatex®, Elocon®) is a potent topical corticosteroid used for treating itchy and inflammatory skin conditions that are associated with bacterial or yeast infections of the skin. It is labeled for use in the ear of dogs.

Depending on the product and how it is used, its use in cats, dogs, or other mammals to treat inflammatory skin conditions may be off label (extra label). Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How is mometasone furoate combination given?

• Mometasone furoate combination is applied topically to the skin on the affected area. If necessary, trim the hair to allow the medication to reach the lesion.
• Shake the tube prior to use.
• Do not allow your pet to lick or chew the treated area for at least 30 minutes after application.
• Wear gloves when applying this medication and wash hands after application.
• Avoid contact with eyes, nose, or mouth.

This medication should take effect within 1 to 2 hours. Effects may not be immediately visible, but gradual improvements are usually noticeable after a few days.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

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?

Mometasone furoate combination may cause the following side effects:

• Temporary inflammation at the application site
• Delay in wound healing

Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving mometasone furoate combination and contact your veterinarian immediately:

• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting, diarrhea
• Sudden hearing loss
• Worsening ear pain
• Head tilt
• Incoordination
• Mouth sores
• Worsening lesions
• Increased thirst
• More frequent urination
• Skin thinning/fragile skin
• Worsening hair loss
• Skin cysts
• Blackheads
• New infections at the application site

Drug 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 moderate-acting medication should stop working in a few days, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE mometasone furoate combination in:

• Pets that are allergic to it
• Pets that are pregnant
• Pets with tuberculosis of the skin (skin application only)
• Pets with a ruptured ear drum (ear application only)

USE WITH CAUTION in:

• Pets that require a large treatment area
• Pets that are smaller in size
• Geriatric pets (deafness may occur; usually temporary)

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Several medications should be used with caution when given with mometasone furoate combinations, including:

• Drugs that are ototoxic or that are known to cause ear damage

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

This medication may interact with allergy testing; stop using it two weeks before allergy testing.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store mometasone furoate combination?

• Store this medication in the refrigerator or at room temperature between 36°F and 77°F (2°C and 25°C).
• Store for up to 28 days after first use and then discard.
• Keep the container out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms.