Nolvasan And Salicylic Acid
General Drug Information and Indications
Chlorhexidine antiseptic for wound irrigation, surgical preparation, and ear/skin infections; nolvasan/salicylic acid formulations for keratolytic/antimicrobial therapy.
Chlorhexidine-based antiseptic (chlorhexidine diacetate or gluconate). Mechanism: cationic biguanide disrupts bacterial cell membrane integrity by electrostatic interaction → membrane lysis and bactericidal effect. Residual activity via protein binding. Broad-spectrum antibacterial. With salicylic acid: keratolytic effect enhancing antiseptic penetration of hyperkeratotic skin.
Key information
Chlorhexidine/salicylic acid topical solution. For external use only. Salicylate component — toxic to cats systemically. Wear gloves. Ototoxic if used in ears with perforated eardrum.
How to Give this Medication
Wound cleanser: dilute to appropriate concentration for use (0.05% for wound irrigation; 2–4% for surgical scrub). Flush wounds gently. Otic: confirm TM integrity; flush with diluted solution. Shampoo/scrub: apply to wetted coat; 5–10 min contact time; rinse thoroughly. 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
Topical/wound: generally well tolerated. Ototoxicity (if instilled in ear with perforated TM). Contact allergy (rare). Mucous membrane irritation at high concentrations (>2%). Systemic effects minimal from topical application to intact skin.
Precautions
For animals
Verify tympanic membrane integrity before otic use. Avoid prolonged contact with mucous membranes. Chlorhexidine can be toxic to corneal epithelium at high concentrations — use ophthalmic formulations near eyes.
For people handling this medication
Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Avoid inhaling sprays or aerosols. Keep out of reach of children. Chlorhexidine antiseptic — generally safe at labeled concentrations. Avoid ear exposure and eye contact. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
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. If ingested, salicylate component is toxic to cats. Contact your veterinarian. 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.
Nolvasan And Salicylic Acid dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NOLVASAN AND SALICYLIC ACID 24%/BENZOIC ACID 0.7%/MALIC ACID 3.6%/CHLORHEXIDINE GLUCONATE 0.25% CREAM | 24%/BENZOIC ACID 0.7%/MALIC ACID 3.6%/CHLORHEXIDINE GLUCONATE 0.25% | Cream | 1 | 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)