Side Effects of Tresaderm for Dogs

Tresaderm is the brand name for a spray, cream or ointment given to dogs and cats to help relieve itchy skin and ears. Tresaderm is made up of three active ingredients: dexamethasone, neomycin sulphate and thiabendazole. This type of medication is called a topical corticosteroid. Tresaderm is made by Merial Ltd.

  1. Function

    • When a dog or cat is bothered by ear mites or another irritant, their body reacts by inflaming the area, which causes itching. Tresaderm works by interfering with the body's immune system so that the itchy area does not become inflamed. This means that the most serious side effect of Tresaderm is the lowering of the defenses of the natural immune system.

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    • "The Pill Book Guide to Medication for Your Dog and Cat" (Kate A.W.Roby, VMD & Lenny Southam, DVM, 1998) states that the main way dogs get negative side effects is that they lick the Tresaderm off of their coats. It is important that dogs given Tresaderm are supervised so they do not lick the medication. Dogs also may need an Elizabethan collar or to have the site bandaged to prevent licking.

    Common Side Effect

    • Merial notes that some dogs have an allergy to the neomycin sulphate present in Tresaderm. The dog will yip and act agitated and may rub the areas where the Tresaderm was applied. The pain usually goes away in 5 minutes and the dog then suffers no other effects. If the dog still seems to be in pain after 5 minutes, phone the vet.

    Serious Side Effects

    • According to "The Pill Book Guide to Medication for Your Dog and Cat," (Kate A.W.Roby, VMD & Lenny Southam, DVM, 1998) the most common serious side effects include increased thirst combined with increased urination; weight gain; panting more often than usual; change in behavior which causes the dog to become very tired; and abortion in pregnant females. Contact the vet if these side effects happen.

    Long-Term Side Effects

    • Because of the potential for long-term side effects, Merial Ltd, the maker of Tresaderm, advises that Tresaderm be used for only a week or less. These long-term side effects include changes in glucose levels, stomach ulcers, interference with the adrenal glands, changes in liver function and the development of Cushing's disease or symptoms similar to Cushing's disease, including increased thirst, increased urination, frequent panting and increased appetite.