Adrenocortical suppression associated with topical otic administration of glucocorticoids in dogs

Abstract

Summary Commercial otic preparations that contained dexamethasone or triamcinolone acetate were applied twice daily to both ears of 2 groups of dogs ( n = 8). Marked adrenocortical suppression, reflected by low serum cortisol concentrations, was observed in all dogs. Results of acth response tests were blunted after 7 days of treatment. Twenty-one days after treatment, serum Cortisol concentrations still were suppressed in all dogs, compared with pretreatment control concentrations. Fourteen days after cessation of otic treatment, 5 of 8 dogs still had inadequate release of Cortisol in response to acth .