Did you know? Atopic dermatitis, aka eczema, can be easily and effectively treated by compounders.
It’s true.
We explore atopic dermatitis in animals and detail all you need to know about treatments through compounding medicine.
So, what is atopic dermatitis?
Atopic dermatitis, also known as atopic eczema, is a common skin condition in animals, particularly in dogs and cats.
It is characterised by chronic inflammation and itching of the skin, often caused by an overactive immune response to environmental allergens, such as pollens and products used in homes among other things.
Usually, there is a genetic predisposition to atopic dermatitis, and in dogs, there are several breeds that are prone to this condition:
Chinese Shar-Pei
Golden Retriever
Dalmatian
Boxer
Various Terrier breeds
Labrador Retriever]
Lhasa Apso
Shih Tzu
Compromise of the normal barrier function of the skin can also occur in many animals due to licking and biting of the affected areas. This behavior often exacerbates conditions such as Atopic Dermatitis, a skin disorder prevalent in domestic animals. To delve deeper into our current understanding of Atopic Dermatitis in domestic animals, including its causes, symptoms, and available treatments, you can find more information in this link.
Veterinary Compounding Pharmacy offers effective treatments
Compounders refer to professionals who specialise in pharmaceutical compounding.
At OmegaVets, we’re trained to create customised medications tailored to the specific needs of individual patients, including those with atopic dermatitis.
Here are some ways compounders can offer assistance:
Customised Medications
Atopic dermatitis can manifest differently in different animals. OmegaVets compounders can prepare medications in various forms such as topical creams, ointments, lotions, sprays, or oral formulations, with the precise dosage and combination of active ingredients required for a particular patient.
Examples include, Apoquel tablets which can be compounded into a fixed oil suspension formula to aid in administration.
When a more concentrated solution of cyclosporine is needed to aid administration, an oral veterinary solution is an option.
As with any dosage-form changes, it’s important to monitor animals in these situations because altering the dosage form may change the pharmacokinetics of the active ingredient.
Topical medications can be helpful too
Veterinary patients with atopic dermatitis either alone or in conjunction with the two previously mentioned medications, can be very effective.
Creams, gels, ointment, and shampoos are the various dosage forms that can be compounded. However, one major issue with using creams, gels and ointments is they can mat the fur and make it greasy or sticky when applied.
This can be undesirable for many owners, especially those with show animals where appearance is extremely important.
At OmegaVets, we can reformulate these products for vets using a base that soothes skin and does not mat the fur.
Naltrexone
this is one active ingredient that may be helpful for patients experiencing atopic dermatitis.
In a study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, canine patients were successfully treated with oral naltrexone for acral lick granulomas that were a result of atopy.
The licking behaviour may be reinforced by a decrease in pain perception due to the release of endogenous opioids.
The theorised mechanism of action is that the naltrexone blocked the release of endogenous opioids, which increased the perception of pain and abated the licking behaviour.
Naltrexone may be used topically in this same manner.
Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy
Allergen-specific immunotherapy, commonly known as allergy shots, is a treatment used to desensitise the pet’s immune system to the allergens causing atopic dermatitis.
Compounders can prepare allergen extracts tailored to the specific allergens identified through allergy testing.
Medication Alternatives and the Benefits of Using Compounders
Some commercial medications may contain ingredients that certain animals are sensitive to or are unavailable in appropriate dosages for veterinary patients.
At OmegaVets, we can create alternative formulations, avoiding problematic ingredients or making them available in the most suitable concentrations.
This is a major benefit when selecting medications from compounders.
Flavouring and Dosage Forms
Atopic dermatitis medications often require long-term treatment, and animal compliance can be an issue if the medication is unpalatable.
Compounders can add flavours and prepare dosage forms that are easier to administer and more appealing to the pet.
Medication Stability
Some medications may be unstable in certain formulations or have limited shelf life.
Compounders can address stability issues, ensuring the medications retain their potency over an extended period.
Patient-Specific Variability
Just like human patients, animals can exhibit variations in their responses to standard treatments.
Compounders can adjust dosages or combine multiple medications into a single preparation, taking into account the patient’s individual needs and response to treatment.
In summary
Veterinary compounders are experts in providing the right tailored treatment options for pets and animals.
Atopic dermatitis in pets can be a complex condition, and a multidisciplinary approach involving veterinarians and compounders can provide the best possible care for affected animals.
Don’t forget to get in touch with us if you have any questions in helping your patients.
Many pet owners and vets find that compounding options offer fast and effective treatment.
