ZYMOX® Enzymatic Ear Solution

What is ZYMOX® Enzymatic Ear Solution 

ZYMOX® Enzymatic Ear Solution is an over-the-counter ear solution that can be used in dogs, cats, small mammals, and exotic pets (e.g., reptiles) to treat and provide relief from bacterial and yeast ear infections, ear inflammation, and conditions such as swimmer’s ear.  

• ZYMOX® Enzymatic Ear Solution comes in a form with 0.5% hydrocortisone and a form that is hydrocortisone-free.
• ZYMOX® also produces veterinary ear solution products with a higher amount of hydrocortisone in them. These products are labeled as ZYMOX® Otic Enzymatic Solution and ZYMOX® PLUS Advanced Otic Enzymatic 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 ?

• ZYMOX® Enzymatic Ear Solution 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 daily, as directed by your veterinarian. 
• Wash your 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 an application, give it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled application, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects from ZYMOX® Enzymatic Ear Solution?

ZYMOX® Enzymatic Ear Solution may cause the following side effects:

• Redness or inflammation at the site of application

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 product?

DO NOT USE this solution in:

• Pets who are allergic to it
• Birds, as they are very sensitive to hydrocortisone

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

Although the amount of hydrocortisone in this product is at an acceptable level for non-prescription use, 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).

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

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

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

Is any monitoring needed with this product?

• At home, monitor for any abnormal changes. If these occur, discontinue the product 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?

• 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 reach of children.

What should I do in case of emergency?

• If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the product/treatment, 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. 
• Report any adverse effects to the FDA or Health Canada.