Sulfa-calamine-dexamethasone-zinc Oxide
General Drug Information and Indications
Topical antimicrobial/anti-inflammatory compound for wound/skin treatment in horses; sulfonamide/zinc oxide formulation.
Compounded topical wound preparation combining sulfonamide antimicrobial with calamine (zinc oxide + ferric oxide — astringent, mild antimicrobial, absorbs exudate) and dexamethasone (anti-inflammatory corticosteroid). Triple-action wound management: antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound drying.
Key information
Potent corticosteroid. Immunosuppressive — increased infection risk. May induce laminitis in horses — use lowest effective dose. May precipitate parturition in mares. Prohibited in competition — know withdrawal times. Adrenal suppression with prolonged use.
How to Give this Medication
Topical wound preparation: apply to wound surface using gloved applicator or dressing. May be used as wound pack or surface dressing. Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. If the next dose is due within a few hours, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Never give a double dose.
Side Effects
Topical: drying effect on skin/wound, local irritation. Corticosteroid component: delayed wound healing, adrenal suppression with large-area use. Sulfonamide: minimal systemic effects with topical use. Staining.
Precautions
For animals
External wound application — avoid mucous membranes and eyes. Corticosteroid component: avoid prolonged large-area use.
For people handling this medication
Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Topical compound — wear gloves. Corticosteroid component: minimize skin contact. Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. A single accidental extra dose of a corticosteroid is usually not a medical emergency, but signs to watch for include extreme lethargy, vomiting, increased thirst/urination, and muscle weakness. Contact your vet before giving the next dose.
Sulfa-calamine-dexamethasone-zinc Oxide dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SULFA-CALAMINE-DEXAMETHASONE-ZINC OXIDE 3.4%SULFACETAMIDE, 5%CALAMINE, 0.01%DEXAMETHASONE, 18.4% ZINC OXIDE | 3.4%SULFACETAMIDE, 5%CALAMINE, 0.01%DEXAMETHASONE, 18.4% ZINC OXIDE | 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 (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)