Hydrocortisone/vitamin Ad/zinc Oxide/chlorhexidine Gluconate
General Drug Information and Indications
Compounded topical combination of hydrocortisone (anti-inflammatory corticosteroid), vitamins A and D, zinc oxide (protective/astringent), and chlorhexidine (antimicrobial) for wound and skin care in horses.
Endogenous cortisol analogue / short-acting corticosteroid. Mechanism: glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptor agonist → modulates gene transcription → anti-inflammatory via phospholipase A2 inhibition (annexin-1), reduced cytokine and prostaglandin synthesis. IV succinate form for acute therapy; equal potency to cortisol. Shortest-acting injectable corticosteroid.
Key information
Topical corticosteroid. Systemic absorption possible with prolonged use or large surface areas. Avoid on face and around eyes. Do not use under occlusive dressings without instruction. Taper if used long-term.
How to Give this Medication
IV: dilute sodium succinate form in 0.9% NaCl or D5W; Administer IV slowly; rapid infusion may cause adverse reactions. over 2–10 min. IM: inject into large muscle mass. Topical: apply thin layer. Oral: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next application, skip it and resume the normal schedule. Do not apply extra product to compensate.
Side Effects
PU/PD/PP. Immunosuppression. Muscle wasting. GI ulceration. HPA axis suppression (short-acting but significant with high doses). Hypertension, edema (mineralocorticoid activity). Laminitis (horses — less risk than dexamethasone but possible). Behavioral changes.
Precautions
For animals
Monitor for GI ulceration; use with caution in animals with GI disease. Avoid in pregnant animals. Avoid live vaccines. Do not use concurrently with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids. Short-acting — less HPA suppression than long-acting corticosteroids. Monitor electrolytes (mild mineralocorticoid activity).
For people handling this medication
Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Corticosteroid — Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact. Wear gloves. Minimize skin contact.
Overdose
If excessive product was applied, wash the area thoroughly with mild soap and water. Contact your veterinarian if the animal shows any signs of irritation, lethargy, tremors, or other unusual behavior. Mild topical corticosteroid — systemic effects unlikely with normal use. Contact veterinarian if large areas were treated repeatedly.
Hydrocortisone/vitamin Ad/zinc Oxide/chlorhexidine Gluconate dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HYDROCORTISONE/VITAMIN AD/ZINC OXIDE/CHLORHEXIDINE GLUCONATE 1%/27%/5.4%/0.5% OINTMENT | 1%/27%/5.4%/0.5% | Ointment | 1 | Compound |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual – Corticosteroids in Animals (https://www.merckvetmanual.com/pharmacology/inflammation/corticosteroids-in-animals); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)