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Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic

Prescription
Ophthalmic Fluoroquinolone Antibiotic
Last reviewed 22 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. Bactericidal with broad gram-negative and moderate gram-positive activity. Good corneal penetration. Forms white crystalline precipitate on corneal surface at high concentrations (harmless, dissolves).

At a glance

Class
Ophthalmic Fluoroquinolone Antibiotic
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature; discard 28 days after opening

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for bacterial keratitis and conjunctivitis
Dose
Route
Ophthalmic
Frequency
q2–6h depending on severity
🐈

Cat

Effective for bacterial conjunctivitis
Dose
Route
Ophthalmic
Frequency
q4–6h

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength
Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature; discard 28 days after opening

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Corneal healingPrecipitate formation (document, reassure owner)Culture response

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Ciloxan
Alcon

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic?
Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic is a ophthalmic fluoroquinolone antibiotic used in pets. Inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. Bactericidal with broad gram-negative and moderate gram-positive activity. Good corneal penetration. Forms white crystalline precipitate on corneal surface at high concentrations (harmless, dissolves).
What is Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic used for in pets?
Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for bacterial keratitis and conjunctivitis; Effective for bacterial conjunctivitis.
What is the Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic dose for dogs?
For dogs, Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic is typically dosed as follows — Used for bacterial keratitis and conjunctivitis: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q2–6h depending on severity. 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 — Effective for bacterial conjunctivitis: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q4–6h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
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. Find a vet near you →