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Dechra Launches DuOtic®: The First Antibiotic-Free Otitis Externa Treatment for Dogs

by Animal Health2 | Mar 17, 2025

A first-to-market, antibiotic-free approach to treating canine otitis yeast infections with
long-lasting relief and increased antimicrobial stewardship


Overland Park, Kan. (March 12, 2025) – Dechra is proud to announce the launch of DuOtic® (terbinafine and betamethasone acetate otic gel), a first-to-market, one-of-a-kind
treatment for canine otitis externa associated with susceptible strains of yeast (Malassezia
pachydermatis
). This antibiotic-free solution provides veterinarians with a useful tool to
practice antimicrobial stewardship in a way that is easy, effective, and responsible.

Yeast-only ear infections are common, with some studies suggesting they account for
around 40% of otitis externa cases.1 Despite this, there are currently no FDA-approved otitis externa treatment options available without an antibiotic to tackle yeast-only infections, making DuOtic® a much-needed solution for any clinic. Designed to fit seamlessly into Dechra’s leading otic portfolio, DuOtic® reinforces the company’s ongoing commitment to dermatology and the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

- AMR is an urgent health threat with more than 35,000 people dying in the U.S. each
year to due resistant infections.

- The American Veterinary Medical Association’s (AVMA) has identified several species
of bacteria as having a high risk for developing antimicrobial resistance, including
those commonly found in canine otitis externa. 

- DuOtic® can reduce the overuse of antibiotics while supporting better compliance,
outcomes, and quality care.

"We are proud to equip veterinarians with a dedicated solution for yeast-driven otitis externa that is aligned with our antimicrobial stewardship goals," said Laura Olsen, President, North America at Dechra. "DuOtic® is a game-changer for ear infection care that builds on Dechra’s extensive otic portfolio, giving veterinarians the confidence and ability to treat ear infections with the right treatment at the right time.”

Key opinion leaders (KOLs) in veterinary dermatology and internal medicine have recognized the need for an effective, antibiotic-free option, making DuOtic® an essential addition to any clinic’s treatment offerings.

“It’s exciting to have an antibiotic-free otitis externa product specifically designed for
Malassezia infections,” says Dr. Rusty Muse, DVM, DACVD. “As a profession, we have had to use antibiotics in ears that don’t need them for too long. Now, with DuOtic®, we don’t have to.”

DuOtic® is designed with both efficacy and compliance in mind. With pre-measured dosing,
a gentle, alcohol-free gel formulation, and a flexible-tip applicator, it provides enhanced
comfort for dogs. Its two-dose, veterinarian or veterinary technician-administered regimen
improves compliance, supporting the full course of treatment while allowing for follow-up
care. DuOtic® delivers up to 45 days of relief for dogs suffering from otitis externa associated with susceptible strains of yeast.

DuOtic® will be available through veterinary distributors in 2-count and 20-count packages.

ABOUT DuOtic®
Important Safety Information

As with all drugs, side effects may occur. For Otic Use in Dogs Only. Do not use in cats. Do not use in dogs with known tympanic perforation. Do not use in dogs with a hypersensitivity to terbinafine or corticosteroids. Do not administer orally. Use with caution in dogs with impaired hepatic function. In a field study and post-approval experience following the use of a similar product Osurnia® (florfenicol, terbinafine, betamethasone acetate) the most common adverse reactions were elevated alanine aminotransferase, conjunctivitis, ocular discharge, ear pruritus, deafness, ear discharge, pinnal irritation and ear pain, emesis, head shaking, internal ear disorder (head tilt and vestibular), ataxia, vocalization, corneal ulcer, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, nystagmus, tympanic rupture, and cranial nerve disorder (facial paralysis). The safe use of DuOtic® has not been evaluated in dogs that are pregnant, lactating or intended for breeding. DuOtic® may cause eye injury and irritation. DuOtic® should be administered by a veterinary professional. Wear eye protection when administering DuOtic® and restrain the dog to minimize post-application head shaking. Refer to the prescribing information for complete details or visit www.dechra-us.com.

About Dechra
Dechra is a global specialist in veterinary pharmaceuticals and related products. The
company focuses on the development, manufacturing, and marketing of high-quality
veterinary products to support animal health and welfare worldwide. For more information,
visit www.dechra-us.com.

Media Contact
Lauren Dorsch
913-914-6903
Lauren.Dorsch@dechra.com
www.dechra-us.com
@DechraUS
facebook.com/dechraus

References
1) Osurnia field studies (United States) – pathogen prevalence in otitis externa. Prevalence data based on number of evaluable cases that started and finished each study. Data on file.
2) “Antimicrobial resistance facts and stats.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/antimicrobial-resistance/data-research/facts-stats/index.html (accessed on February 12th, 2025).
3) AVMA/Committee on Antimicrobials. Antimicrobial resistant pathogens affecting animal health in the United States. American Veterinary Medical Association; 2020. www.avma.org/sites/default/files/2020-08/AntimicrobialResistanceFullReport.pdf. Accessed January 4th, 2025.

Dechra is a registered trademark of Dechra Pharmaceuticals Limited. DuOtic® is a registered trademark of Dechra Limited.

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