What are the drops called that treat ear mites? - briefly
The medication is marketed as mite‑treatment ear drops, typically containing selamectin (e.g., Revolution) or ivermectin formulations.
What are the drops called that treat ear mites? - in detail
Ear‑mite medication is typically supplied as a liquid formulation applied directly into the ear canal. The most common active ingredients are selamine, ivermectin, milbemycin oxime and moxidectin, each marketed under specific product names.
- Selamine (Revolution) – a topical acaricide that eliminates adult mites and prevents reinfestation for up to one month. Administered as a few drops per ear, the solution spreads across the ear canal and surrounding skin.
- Ivermectin (Ivomec, Heartgard) – used off‑label as ear drops; it paralyzes mites by binding to glutamate‑gated chloride channels. Dosage is calculated per kilogram of body weight, with a standard 0.5 ml per ear for small animals.
- Milbemycin oxime (Milbemax) – formulated as a liquid ear treatment in some regions; it interferes with microtubule formation in mites, leading to death within 24 hours. Recommended dose is 0.25 ml per ear for cats, 0.5 ml for dogs.
- Moxidectin (Advocate) – a broad‑spectrum antiparasitic delivered as a spot‑on solution that also reaches the ear canal. Application follows the same protocol as selamine, with one drop per ear.
All products require cleaning the ear before administration to remove debris and excess wax. After cleaning, the prescribed number of drops is placed into the vertical ear canal, allowing the medication to coat the tympanic membrane and surrounding tissue. Treatment courses usually last one to three applications, spaced two weeks apart, depending on the product’s residual activity.
Safety considerations include confirming the animal’s weight, species, and any existing health conditions before selection. Contra‑indications encompass very young puppies or kittens (under eight weeks), pregnant or lactating females, and animals with known hypersensitivity to the active ingredient. Monitoring for irritation, redness or discharge after each application is essential; persistent adverse signs warrant veterinary evaluation.
In summary, ear‑mite drops are identified by their active compounds—selamine, ivermectin, milbemycin oxime and moxidectin—and are marketed under names such as Revolution, Ivomec, Milbemax and Advocate. Proper dosing, ear hygiene and adherence to safety guidelines ensure effective eradication of ear mites.