Virbac Animal Health reports that two leading dermatologists have expressed favourable opinions about Cortavance, its new treatment for inflammatory and pruritic dermatoses in dogs.

Anita Patel, a referral dermatologist in Kent, said the major benefit of Cortavance is that it can be used topically without the adverse effects seen with some of the systemic drugs used in the management of atopic dermatitis. She said: “What I like most about Cortavance is its rapid activity and beneficial use in a wide range of dermatological conditions. So far in my experience there have been very limited adverse effects.”

When asked what extra benefits Cortavance offered, Anita listed its pharmacological activity, ease of application, rapid resolution of inflammation and long shelf-life. Anita also highlighted how Cortavance can be used as an adjunctive treatment for dogs receiving allergen-specific immunotherapy, but which experience intermittent flare-ups and also as an adjunctive treatment for dogs that are being treated with antihistamines.

Fellow dermatologist Cathy Curtis, who works for the Dermatology Referral Service in Hertfordshire, said: “I like the idea of a spray formulation for ease of application and particularly the fact that the product has a moderately potent therapeutic effect with minimal risk of adverse cutaneous or systemic effects. It is potentially safer for the owner to use as they do not have to handle the product directly. Additionally, as a mono-pharmaceutical, it eliminates the risk of adverse reactions to accompanying antibiotics and antifungals."