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)
Storage
Store at room temperature; discard 28 days after opening
Dosing
Used as adjunctive therapy for canine glaucoma
Cats are highly sensitive to systemic absorption of alpha-2 agonists — profound
Safety
Intraocular pressureCardiovascular statusSedation levels (cats)
Interactions
No documented interactions.
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.
References
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.
Find a vet near you →