My vet prescribed Neocort for my dog.  What does that mean?

Neocort for dogs is a cream that combines antibiotic, anti-inflammatory and anaesthetic effect to help remove the pain and irritation of the skin lesion so that it can heal

Neocort is a topical cream that is often prescribed for dogs with skin irritation or skin conditions caused by neomycin-sensitive bacterial organisms.  Neocort has three active ingredients and these work to make your dog more comfortable and heal in three different ways.

This article answers some of your common questions, such as how Neocort helps your dog, the dosage for Neocort, and the side-effects of Neocort for dogs.

How does Neocort help my dog?

Neocort has three active ingredients that each help make your dog more comfortable and heal faster:

  • Neomycin (as sulfate),
  • Hydrocortisone (as acetate)
  • Lignocaine (as hydrochloride) 

 

Neomycin is an antibiotic that fights bacteria in the body. It is one of the classification of antibiotics known as aminoglycosides, and it works by suppressing protein synthesis and the growth of bacteria, so it rapidly kills bacteria cells. When it is applied topically (to the skin), Neomycin doesn't get absorbed into the body, so it is ideal for treating localized bacterial skin-infections.

Hydrocortisone is a synthetic corticosteroid cream help to relieve the itching and reduce inflammation on your dog’s skin.  Hydrocortisone acts like cortisol (which is produced by the adrenal glands), and works by reducing the body’s response to inflammation. Studies showed that it is effective at treating irritating, itchy, inflamed, and dry skin in dogs.

Lignocaine (called lidocaine in America) is a topical anesthetic - it stops the pain for your dog! It works by blocking transmission of sensory signals, causing temporary numbness/loss of feeling in the skin and mucous membranes where it is applied, so that the urge to scratch is reduced.

What can I expect when my dog starts on Neocort?

Neocort for dogs works fast.  The lignocaine will reduce pain by numbing the skin within a matter of minutes, and the hydrocortisone also acts fast to reduce inflammation.  The neomycin starts work on killing the bacterial infection on its first application.  However it may take a couple of days for you to see that it’s working to treat your dog’s infection.

 

Normally, your vet will tell you to use Neocort on your dog until the infection has cleared and the wound has healed (normally around 14 days).  It is important that you discuss your dog’s response to Neocort with your vet, especially if your dog is not showing signs of improvement after a few days.

 

How to use Neocort for dogs?

Here’s some handy tips when applying Neocort for dogs:

 

  • It is natural for dogs to lick, itch, and perhaps bite at irritated skin, as they try to soothe or “heal” the sore area.  However, this makes the swelling worse, and can increase infection. Talk to your vet about whether your dog should wear an Elizabethan collar (“the cone of shame”) if your dog is licking, nibbling or worrying at the affected area.  Dogs that lick the spot after the application of Neocort may experience an increase in thirst and urination, vomiting, panting, and diarrhea.
  • Check with your vet before applying Neocort to your dog’s skin if the skin is broken, or an open wound.
  • Neocort is a cream that you apply in a thin layer to your dog’s skin.  Your vet will give you instructions on how often to apply the cream - normally 2 or 3 times per day.
  • Wash your hands before and after applying Neocort - hygiene is important here, for both you and your dog’s health!
  • Some dogs are not very keen for us to touch their sore skin - which is completely understandable.  Make sure your dog is as relaxed as possible - sometimes it is easier for two people to undertake the process, with one making the dog comfortable with pats (or treats) and the other working quickly yet gently to spread or dab the cream over the affected region.
  • You may want to use a cotton swab, applying the Neocort cream to one end, and gently spreading it around the rash.
  • Washing the affected area may be necessary - ask your vet whether a warm water bathe of the sore spot is necessary or beneficial

Storage of Neocort

The manufacturer of Neocort recommends that it be stored at room temperature (below 30 degrees) in a cool dry place.

Who should NOT use Neocort?

You should not use Neocort cream if your dog shows any allergic or sensitivity reaction to lignocaine, neomycin or hydrocortisone.

Possible side effects 

Lignocaine, neomycin and hydrocortisone are generally well tolerated by dogs.  However, as with any medication, if you are concerned about a possible side effect of Neocort, stop treatment and contact your vet immediately. 

Can I buy Neocort for dogs online?

Neocort for dogs is a prescription medicine, and you can buy it online from PetScripts once you have a script (prescription) from your vet.  Please ensure that you have read the How to Order page before ordering this item.

Disclaimer

This information is not intended nor is it implied to be a substitute for professional medical or veterinary advice or any information contained on or in any product packaging or labels. Always seek the advice of your Veterinarian, Pharmacist, or qualified health provider when starting any new medical treatment, continuing with medical treatment or with any questions you may have regarding your animal's medical condition. Professional advice is required for each particular illness, disease, infection, injury or other medical condition and for dosages of the pharmaceutical product supplied via this website. You take full and total responsibility for what you do with this information and any resulting outcomes from your actions.

 

NOTHING CONTAINED IN THE SERVICE IS INTENDED TO BE OR SHOULD BE TAKEN FOR MEDICAL OR VETERINARY DIAGNOSIS OR TREATMENT.

IF YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY OR NEED IMMEDIATE MEDICAL TREATMENT FOR YOUR PET, PLEASE CONSULT AN ANIMAL HOSPITAL OR EMERGENCY VETERINARY