Ophytrium + Chlorhexidine

What is ophytrium + chlorhexidine?

Ophytrium + chlorhexidine (DOUXO® S3 PYO) is used to treat bacterial and fungal skin infections in dogs and cats.

• Ophytrium is an ingredient extracted from Japanese mondo grass (Ophipogon japonicus). 
• Chlorhexadine is an antiseptic with antibacterial properties. 

When used in combination, ophytrium + chlorhexidine is proven to disinfect the surface of the skin; hydrate, soothe and support the skin’s physical barrier; and help support the skin’s microbial flora.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not review non-drug health supplements (e.g., herbals, nutraceuticals, shampoos, and other supplements) for safety or effectiveness before they are sold to the public. Manufacturers of non-drug health supplements must ensure their supplements are safe and labeled accurately. 

The FDA requires that these non-pharmaceuticals contain a disclaimer that says, “This supplement is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” Health Canada licenses “veterinary health supplements” after reviewing safety, efficacy, and manufacturing information provided by the manufacturer. These supplements are not tested by Health Canada.

Your veterinarian is the best source of information about the safety of non-drug health supplements in pets. Just because a supplement is natural does not mean it is safe. All medicines and medicinal plants are potentially toxic if used inappropriately or given at high doses. Supplements can also have side effects, like pharmaceuticals. Few supplements and herbs have been subjected to rigorous scientific trials to determine their efficacy.

Although the information in this handout may be helpful, it may also be incomplete and may not represent the full range of effects the supplement could have on your pet.

How do I give my pet ophytrium + chlorhexidine?

• Ophytrium + chlorhexidine comes in several formats to be used topically on the skin: shampoo, mousse, micro-emulsion spray, and pads. The mousse and pad formats are not recommended for cats.
• Apply the product according to the package instructions and as directed by your veterinarian.
• Avoid contact with the pet’s eyes, nose and mouth.
• Do not use DOUXO® S3 PYO Pads between the toes of cats as some cats experience oral irritation after grooming and the thin, sensitive skin in that area can be adversely affected by the pads.
• Wash hands after use.
• If treating a potentially contagious skin condition, consider using gloves to apply this product and consult your veterinarian about further measures to avoid spreading the infection.

This medicated grooming product may require several applications to have full effects. Visible improvements may be gradual but should be noted within 7–14 days.

Note: Chlorhexidine can cause rare, but serious, allergic reactions in humans. If you experience allergy symptoms, discontinue use immediately and seek medical treatment.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a treatment, give it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled treatment, skip the missed treatment and resume the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects from ophytrium + chlorhexidine?

Ophytrium + chlorhexidine may cause the following side effects:

• Dry skin or skin irritation
• Skin redness
• Oral irritation after grooming (in cats)

If excessive skin irritation occurs or if the existing skin irritation and/or swelling worsens, discontinue this medication and contact your veterinarian immediately.

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.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, discontinue use and contact your veterinarian immediately. Ophytrium + chlorhexidine should stop working within 48–72 hours, although effects can vary according to the product format.

Are there any risk factors for this product?

DO NOT USE ophytrium + chlorhexidine in:

• Pets that are allergic to it

Use the mousse format WITH CAUTION in:

• Cats (some cats experience oral irritation after grooming)

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

There are no documented drug interactions for this medication. 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.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If side effects occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.
• Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations regarding when your pet will need to be rechecked and what tests may need to be performed before and during treatment with the drug.

How do I store ophytrium + chlorhexidine?

• Store this product at controlled room temperature of 59°F–77°F (15°C–25°C).
• Store in a cool, dry place.
• Keep this medication out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms.