Inhibits ergosterol synthesis by blocking 14-alpha-demethylase, disrupting fungal cell membrane integrity
At a glance
Class
Imidazole antifungal
Dosing
Otitis externa (fungal) / Dermatophytosis (topical)
Duration: 7–14 days for otitis; 2–4 weeks for dermatophytosis
Otitis externa (fungal) / Dermatophytosis (topical)
Duration: 7–14 days for otitis; 2–4 weeks for dermatophytosis
Safety
Absolute contraindications — do not use
Adverse effects
Common
Local irritation
Erythema at application site
Serious
Contact dermatitis (rare)
Clinical responseFungal culture if no improvement
Interactions
No documented interactions.
Brands
India
Daktarin
Johnson & Johnson
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Miconazole?
Miconazole is a imidazole antifungal used in pets. Inhibits ergosterol synthesis by blocking 14-alpha-demethylase, disrupting fungal cell membrane integrity
›What is Miconazole used for in pets?
Miconazole is used in veterinary medicine for: Otitis externa (fungal) / Dermatophytosis (topical).
›What is the Miconazole dose for dogs?
For dogs, Miconazole is typically dosed as follows — Otitis externa (fungal) / Dermatophytosis (topical): 0 mg/kg Topical/Otic BID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Miconazole dose for cats?
For cats, Miconazole is typically dosed as follows — Otitis externa (fungal) / Dermatophytosis (topical): 0 mg/kg Topical/Otic BID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Miconazole?
Common: Local irritation, Erythema at application site. Serious (call your vet immediately): Contact dermatitis (rare).
›Does Miconazole need a prescription?
Miconazole is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
›When should Miconazole not be used?
Do not use Miconazole if: Known hypersensitivity to imidazole antifungals.
References
CDSCO approvals (India) — 1
Cypermethrin 1.0% w/w + Miconazole Nitrate IP 2.0%w/w shampoo for topical applic
M/s. Gopaldas & Vishramdas · Approved 30.04.2015
Controls fungal infections, kills and repels external parasites like ticks, fleas, lice and mites, moisturizes, soothes,
Source: CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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