Understanding Mometamax: Uses and Benefits for Dogs
Mometamax Otic Suspension is a prescription medication specifically formulated to address external ear infections—known medically as otitis externa—in dogs. These infections often result from a combination of bacteria and yeast, leading to uncomfortable symptoms like redness, swelling, itching, and discharge. Let's explore how Mometamax works, its ingredients, usage guidelines, and precautions every dog owner should know.
How Does Mometamax Work?
This medication combines three active ingredients to target the most common culprits behind canine ear infections:
- Gentamicin sulfate: An aminoglycoside antibiotic that attacks a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria such as Pseudomonas spp., coagulase-positive staphylococci, Enterococcus faecalis, Proteus mirabilis, and beta-hemolytic streptococci.
- Mometasone furoate monohydrate: A synthetic corticosteroid that rapidly reduces inflammation, swelling, and itching inside the ear canal.
- Clotrimazole: A broad-spectrum antifungal agent effective against yeast (especially Malassezia pachydermatis), which is a frequent cause of canine otitis externa.
Together, these ingredients provide comprehensive relief by eliminating infection-causing organisms while soothing inflamed tissue.
When Is Mometamax Prescribed?
Veterinarians prescribe Mometamax primarily for mild to moderate cases of otitis externa. Clinical studies show it significantly reduces discomfort, redness (erythema), swelling, exudate (discharge), and unpleasant odor associated with infected ears. While it's labeled for use in dogs only, some vets may use it off-label for cats in specific situations.
Dosing Instructions
The dosing schedule depends on your dog's weight and the bottle size:
- For 7.5 g, 15 g, or 30 g bottles: Apply 4 drops per ear if your dog weighs under 30 lbs; use 8 drops per ear for dogs over 30 lbs.
- For the larger 215 g bottle: Use 2 drops per ear for dogs under 30 lbs; apply 4 drops per ear for those over 30 lbs.
Mometamax is typically administered once daily for seven days. Before applying the medication, thoroughly clean and dry your dog's external ear canal. Shake the bottle well before each use. After instilling the prescribed amount into the canal, gently massage the base of your dog's ear to help distribute the suspension evenly.
Precautions and Contraindications
- Do not use if your dog has a ruptured eardrum (tympanic membrane perforation) or known hypersensitivity to any components of Mometamax.
- Avoid prolonged therapy beyond seven days unless directed by your veterinarian; extended corticosteroid exposure can delay wound healing or cause unwanted effects.
- If you notice vestibular dysfunction (balance problems), hearing loss, or significant irritation during treatment, stop using Mometamax immediately and flush the ear with a non-ototoxic solution.
- Avoid contact with your dog's eyes, nose, mouth—or accidental ingestion—when administering this medication.
Mometamax isn't recommended for pregnant dogs or those with certain sensitivities. Also avoid combining it with other drugs known to cause ototoxicity while treating an active infection.
Possible Side Effects
Most dogs tolerate Mometamax well. However, potential side effects include:
- Mild skin irritation or redness at application site
- Temporary hearing loss or partial deafness (mainly in older or sensitive dogs; usually reversible after stopping treatment)
- Ataxia (loss of coordination), diarrhea, vomiting
- Allergic reactions (rare)
Treatment studies report adverse reactions in less than two percent of cases. If you observe persistent redness, pain in the ears, worsening symptoms or systemic issues like vomiting or diarrhea after application—contact your veterinarian promptly.
The Importance of Completing Treatment
Your dog may seem better before finishing all doses—but it's crucial to complete the full course as prescribed. Stopping early can lead to incomplete resolution of infection and increase risk of resistance among pathogens.
Storage and Handling Tips
- Mometamax comes in several bottle sizes: 7.5 g, 15 g, 30 g, and a large clinic-use size of 215 g.
- Store between 2°C and 25°C (36°F–77°F). Use within twenty-eight days after opening.
This medicine is intended only for use in dogs' ears—and must be prescribed by a licensed veterinarian. Never use beyond its expiration date since efficacy can't be guaranteed past that point.
Other Uses & Product Comparisons
Mometamax may occasionally be prescribed for superficial skin infections under veterinary guidance. In head-to-head studies with similar products like Otomax—another combination otic medication—Mometamax has proven equally effective against concurrent bacterial and yeast infections in canine ears.
A newer related product called "Mometamax Single" offers a one-dose in-clinic option utilizing gentamicin plus posaconazole and mometasone furoate for certain cases of otitis externa caused by susceptible organisms including Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
If you're unsure whether this medication is right for your pet—or if symptoms persist despite treatment—consult your veterinarian without delay.
Mometamax Otic Suspension remains an essential tool for veterinarians treating external ear infections in dogs due to its broad-spectrum efficacy against both bacteria and fungi while providing rapid relief from inflammation-related discomfort.
