Calcium Hydroxide
General Drug Information and Indications
Topical antimicrobial and keratolytic; dental applications; component of antifungal dips.
Inorganic base (lime). Mechanism: strong alkali that disrupts microbial cell membranes; keratolytic effects in topical preparations. Used as component of antifungal lime sulfur dips and topical antimicrobial preparations. High pH (12.4) provides antimicrobial activity.
Key information
Caustic alkaline compound — topical/hoof use only. Corrosive — wear gloves and eye protection. Do NOT administer orally. Handle with care.
How to Give this Medication
Topical: apply as directed in compounded preparation. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. Wear gloves during application. Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.
Side Effects
Caustic at high concentrations — skin burns, mucosal irritation. Eye contact: corneal burns. Inhalation of powder: respiratory irritation. Topical use: irritation if over-applied.
Precautions
For animals
Caustic — external use only. Do not apply to open wounds or mucous membranes without appropriate dilution.
For people handling this medication
Wear gloves when handling. Caustic — wear gloves and eye protection. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Skin contact: wash immediately. Strong alkali — avoid inhalation of powder.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. Calcium hydroxide is caustic — causes severe chemical burns to mucous membranes if ingested. Flush exposed areas immediately with water. Contact your veterinarian, a veterinary emergency clinic, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically directed by a veterinary professional.
Calcium Hydroxide dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CALCIUM HYDROXIDE 0.09% IN LINSEED OIL SUSPENSION - GALLON | 0.09% IN LINSEED OIL | Suspension | GALLON | Compound |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)