Topical therapy in canine atopic dermatitis: new products

Abstract

Topical therapy in canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) can moisturise and soothe the skin; treat and prevent secondary bacterial and yeast infections; and remove debris, grease and allergens. Shampoos are commonly used but can be time-consuming. Non-rinsing wipes, foams and spot-on preparations facilitate topical application and improve compliance. The ideal topical product for CAD should be emollient, lipid-barrier sparing, microbiome balancing, easy to apply and well-tolerated, have some residual activity, and be safe for the dog and owner. Ophytrium is a novel Ophiopogon japonicus (Japanese mondo grass) derived product. It blocks inflammatory pathways, maintains epidermal morphology and barrier function, and reduces staphylococcal adherence and biofilm formation in human and canine epidermis models. It has been incorporated in shampoos and foams for dogs (Douxo S3®; Ceva Sante Animale, Libourne, France). Use of 3-week treatment cycles with one shampoo followed by a foam application every 2–3 days helps to ameliorate CAD (Douxo S3 Calm®) and superficial staphylococcal pyoderma (ophytrium/3% chlorhexidine; Douxo S3 Pyo®). Effective topical therapy used alone or alongside other modalities can improve the effectiveness and safety of treatment for CAD. Reducing the need for systemic antimicrobials is a vital part of antimicrobial stewardship.