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  • 15 E. Duncan Ave,
  • Penticton,
  • British Columbia,
  • Phone: (250) 493-1530

Pyrethrins + Piperonyl Butoxide + Bicycloheptene Dicarboximide Otic

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What is pyrethrins + piperonyl butoxide + bicycloheptene dicarboximide otic?

Pyrethrins + piperonyl butoxide + bicycloheptene dicarboximide otic (brand name Otomite Plus®) is a medication used to treat ear mites in dogs and cats older than 12 weeks of age. Pyrethrins are a type of pesticide (insecticide), while piperonyl butoxide and bicycloheptene dicarboximide enhance the insecticidal activity of this medication.

It may be used off label (extra label) to treat other ear conditions in dogs and cats. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How do I give my pet pyrethrins + piperonyl butoxide + bicycloheptene dicarboximide otic?

  • Pyrethrins + piperonyl butoxide + bicycloheptene dicarboximide otic comes in liquid drop form. 
  • Drops are applied topically to the external ear canal. 
  • Clean the affected area as directed by your veterinarian before applying the medication. 
  • Wash your hands after application. 
  • Avoid contact with eyes and mouth.
  • Do not allow contact or grooming of the application site for at least several hours after applying this medication.
  • Avoid contact or contamination with water supply as highly toxic to aquatic species.
  • Give this medication to your pet for the entire time prescribed by your veterinarian, even if it appears that your pet is feeling better.

Effects may not be noticeable for a few days.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects from pyrethrins + piperonyl butoxide + bicycloheptene dicarboximide otic?

Pyrethrins + piperonyl butoxide + bicycloheptene dicarboximide otic may cause the following side effects:

  • Redness, itching, and/or irritation at site of application

The following reactions are rare, but if they occur, contact your veterinarian immediately:

  • An allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face
  • Excessive drooling, vomiting, tremors or seizures, incoordination, changes in breathing, changes in temperature (particularly in cats – pyrethrin poisoning is possible if medication is ingested)

Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses, but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. The effects of this long-acting medication will last up to 1 week and may be prolonged in pets with kidney and/or liver dysfunction.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE in:

  • Animals who are allergic to any of the components
  • Animals who are less than 12 weeks of age
  • Aquatic species

USE WITH CAUTION in animals who are:

  • Weak, frail, and/or geriatric
  • Pregnant or nursing

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

No known drug interactions have been reported for the otic form of this medication. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

  • Your veterinarian may schedule a follow-up visit after the course of medication is complete to ensure the condition has been cleared and/or do additional testing to ensure this is the right medication for the condition present. In this case, follow your veterinarian’s directions.
  • At home, monitor for any abnormal changes. If any occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store pyrethrins + piperonyl butoxide + bicycloheptene dicarboximide otic?

  • Store the medication in its original container in a cool, dry location. 
  • Keep medication out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Adverse effects should also be reported to the FDA or Health Canada.

© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Doctorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health.