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Aluminum acetate solution, Topical (Burow's solution) + hydrocortisone (Corti-Derm®, Cort/Astrin®, Hydro-B 1020®), is a topical treatment used to relieve inflammation and itchiness in dogs. Aluminum acetate solution is an astringent and drying agent used for the temporary relief of minor skin irritation such as insect bites, rashes, and allergies. It cleanses, cools, and dries inflamed skin. The addition of hydrocortisone provides anti-inflammatory and antipruritic (anti-itch) activities.
Aluminum acetate solution, topical + hydrocortisone is also commonly used to treat ear infections (otitis externa) in dogs due to its antibacterial effects and anti-inflammatory effects.
Generic forms of Aluminum acetate solution, topical + hydrocortisone can be prescribed off label to treat inflammatory skin conditions and ear infection (otitis externa) 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 carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
Aluminum acetate solution, topical + hydrocortisone comes in a topical liquid form.
Aluminum acetate solution, topical + hydrocortisone may suppress reactions to intradermal allergen skin tests. It is recommended that this medication be withdrawn two weeks (14 days) before intradermal skin testing for dogs and cats.
This medication will take effect quickly, in about one to two hours, but its effects may not be visibly noticeable for a few days.
If you miss a dose of aluminum acetate solution, topical + hydrocortisone, 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.
Aluminum acetate solution, topical + hydrocortisone may cause the following side effects:
If excessive skin irritation occurs or the existing skin irritation and/or swelling worsens, discontinue this medication, and contact your veterinarian immediately.
With long-term use, aluminum acetate solution, topical + hydrocortisone may cause the following side effects:
The following reactions are rare, but if they occur, contact your veterinarian immediately:
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.
This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects may last longer in pets with liver or kidney disease
This medication should NOT BE USED in patients who:
This medication should be USED WITH CAUTION in:
Prolonged use should be avoided or limited to one to two weeks at a time, to prevent potential skin atrophy and systemic absorption.
Aluminum acetate, topical + hydrocortisone is not known to have any specific drug interactions. 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.
Certain medications should be USED WITH CAUTION when given with hydrocortisone, including:
At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If side effects occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.
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.
© 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 Directorate. 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. Created on Jul 10, 2024.
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