How often should topical antibiotics be administered for a canine indolent ulcer?

For treating a canine indolent ulcer, administering topical antibiotics three to four times a day (TID-QID) is considered optimal. This frequency ensures that therapeutic levels of the antibiotic are maintained in the local area, which is critical for combating infection and promoting healing.

Indolent ulcers in dogs typically occur due to inadequate corneal epithelial healing, and the use of topical antibiotics not only helps prevent secondary bacterial infections but also assists in maintaining a moist environment conducive to healing. By applying the medication several times throughout the day, it helps create a continuous supply of the antibiotic at the site of the ulcer, maximizing the effectiveness of the treatment.

In contrast, once-a-day dosing would not provide sufficient levels of the antibiotic to be effective, and treatment every other day would likely lead to variability in drug levels that may hinder healing. Administering the antibiotic every hour could be excessive and impractical, leading to potential toxicity and client non-compliance. Thus, TID-QID is the best approach for managing this condition effectively.