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Brimonidine

Prescription
Alpha-2 Adrenergic Agonist (Ophthalmic)
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist that decreases aqueous humor production and increases uveoscleral outflow, reducing intraocular pressure. Also has neuroprotective effects on the optic nerve.

At a glance

Class
Alpha-2 Adrenergic Agonist (Ophthalmic)
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature; discard 28 days after opening

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used as adjunctive therapy for canine glaucoma
Dose
Route
Ophthalmic
Frequency
q8–12h
🐈

Cat

Cats are highly sensitive to systemic absorption of alpha-2 agonists — profound
Dose
Route
Ophthalmic
Frequency
q12h
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. Find a vet near you →

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature; discard 28 days after opening

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Intraocular pressureCardiovascular statusSedation levels (cats)
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. Find a vet near you →

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Alphagan P
Brimodin

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Brimonidine?
Brimonidine is a alpha-2 adrenergic agonist (ophthalmic) used in pets. Selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist that decreases aqueous humor production and increases uveoscleral outflow, reducing intraocular pressure. Also has neuroprotective effects on the optic nerve.
What is Brimonidine used for in pets?
Brimonidine is used in veterinary medicine for: Used as adjunctive therapy for canine glaucoma; Cats are highly sensitive to systemic absorption of alpha-2 agonists — profound .
What is the Brimonidine dose for dogs?
For dogs, Brimonidine is typically dosed as follows — Used as adjunctive therapy for canine glaucoma: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q8–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Brimonidine dose for cats?
For cats, Brimonidine is typically dosed as follows — Cats are highly sensitive to systemic absorption of alpha-2 agonists — profound : undefined undefined Ophthalmic q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Brimonidine need a prescription?
Yes. Brimonidine is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
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. Find a vet near you →

References

References

The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.

Textbooks & handbooks — 5

  • Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
  • Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
  • Merck Veterinary Manual
  • NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
  • Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)

Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4

  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
  • AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
  • ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
  • RECOVER CPR Guidelines

Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2

  • EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
  • JVIM FAT CAT Study

Regulatory & approvals — 1

  • CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)

Databases — 1

  • Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database

Related medicines

Other medicines in the same class (Alpha-2 Adrenergic Agonist).

Clonidine
Rx
Stimulates alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the brainstem, reducing sympathetic outflow, decreasing peripheral vascular resistance, heart rate, and blood pressure. Also has sedative and anxiolytic properties.
dogcat
Dexmedetomidine
Rx
Highly selective alpha-2 adrenoceptor agonist; produces dose-dependent sedation, analgesia, and anxiolysis by inhibiting noradrenaline release in the CNS (locus coeruleus)
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Medetomidine
Rx
Potent and selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist; produces dose-dependent sedation, analgesia, and muscle relaxation by reducing norepinephrine release centrally; racemic mixture (dexmedetomidine is the active enantiomer)
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