Localized Alopecia and Suppression of Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis in Dogs Following Treatment with Difluprednate 0.05% Ophthalmic Emulsion

    December 2021 in “ BMC veterinary research ”
    Katelin R. Quantz, Andy Anderson, Christine D. Harman, Erica L. Noland, Jacquelyn M Del Valle, Laurence M. Occelli, Jessica Burn, Simon M. Petersen‐Jones, Daniel K. Langlois, Christopher G. Pirie, Annette Petersen, András M. Komàromy
    TLDR Long-term use of difluprednate eye drops in dogs can lead to hair loss and hormone imbalance.
    The study examined the effects of long-term use of difluprednate 0.05% ophthalmic emulsion (Durezol®) on dogs, focusing on localized alopecia and suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. It included 13 Beagles and one Chihuahua, revealing that the Beagles developed alopecia around the face and ears, while the Chihuahua exhibited generalized hair loss and signs of iatrogenic hyperadrenocorticism. Diagnostic tests showed significant suppression of the HPA axis, with a negative correlation between difluprednate dose and cortisol levels. The findings suggest that difluprednate's high potency and dermal absorption contribute to these adverse effects, indicating the need for cautious use in veterinary treatments.
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