Inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, preventing DNA replication; broad-spectrum activity against ocular pathogens
At a glance
Class
Fluoroquinolone antibiotic (ophthalmic)
Storage
Store below 25°C, protect from light
Dosing
Bacterial conjunctivitis / Corneal ulcer (superficial, non-melting)
Frequency
QID (q4–6h); hourly for first 24–48h in severe ulcers
Duration: 7–14 days; continue 48h past resolution
Bacterial conjunctivitis / Secondary bacterial infection
Duration: 7–14 days
Safety
Fluoroquinolone hypersensitivity
Fungal or viral keratitis
Antibiotic may delay diagnosis
Adverse effects
Common
Transient ocular stinging
White corneal precipitate (crystalline deposits)
Serious
Corneal toxicity (rare with prolonged use)
Clinical responseFluorescein stainingCorneal health
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Ciprofloxacin (Ophthalmic)?
Ciprofloxacin (Ophthalmic) is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic (ophthalmic) used in pets. Inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, preventing DNA replication; broad-spectrum activity against ocular pathogens
›What is Ciprofloxacin (Ophthalmic) used for in pets?
Ciprofloxacin (Ophthalmic) is used in veterinary medicine for: Bacterial conjunctivitis / Corneal ulcer (superficial, non-melting); Bacterial conjunctivitis / Secondary bacterial infection.
›What is the Ciprofloxacin (Ophthalmic) dose for dogs?
For dogs, Ciprofloxacin (Ophthalmic) is typically dosed as follows — Bacterial conjunctivitis / Corneal ulcer (superficial, non-melting): 0 mg/kg Ophthalmic QID (q4–6h); hourly for first 24–48h in severe ulcers. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Ciprofloxacin (Ophthalmic) dose for cats?
For cats, Ciprofloxacin (Ophthalmic) is typically dosed as follows — Bacterial conjunctivitis / Secondary bacterial infection: 0 mg/kg Ophthalmic QID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Ciprofloxacin (Ophthalmic)?
Common: Transient ocular stinging, White corneal precipitate (crystalline deposits). Serious (call your vet immediately): Corneal toxicity (rare with prolonged use).
›Does Ciprofloxacin (Ophthalmic) need a prescription?
Yes. Ciprofloxacin (Ophthalmic) 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.
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