Topical calcineurin inhibitor that suppresses T-lymphocyte-mediated lacrimal gland destruction in KCS, promoting tear production recovery. Also has direct lacrimostimulant effects on lacrimal and goblet cells. Anti-inflammatory for immune-mediated ocular surface disease.
At a glance
Class
Ophthalmic Calcineurin Inhibitor / Lacrimostimulant
Storage
Optimmune at room temperature; Restasis at room temperature; compounded preparations per pharmacy instructions
Dosing
Gold standard for canine KCS (dry eye)
Used for immune-mediated conjunctivitis, eosinophilic keratitis, and corneal seq
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 →Safety
Schirmer Tear Test q4–8 weeksCorneal fluorescein stainingClinical signs (discharge, squinting)Allow 6–8 weeks before assessing full response
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
United States
Optimmune (veterinary)
Merck
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Cyclosporine Ophthalmic?
Cyclosporine Ophthalmic is a ophthalmic calcineurin inhibitor / lacrimostimulant used in pets. Topical calcineurin inhibitor that suppresses T-lymphocyte-mediated lacrimal gland destruction in KCS, promoting tear production recovery. Also has direct lacrimostimulant effects on lacrimal and goblet cells. Anti-inflammatory for immune-mediated ocular surface disease.
›What is Cyclosporine Ophthalmic used for in pets?
Cyclosporine Ophthalmic is used in veterinary medicine for: Gold standard for canine KCS (dry eye); Used for immune-mediated conjunctivitis, eosinophilic keratitis, and corneal seq.
›What is the Cyclosporine Ophthalmic dose for dogs?
For dogs, Cyclosporine Ophthalmic is typically dosed as follows — Gold standard for canine KCS (dry eye): undefined undefined Ophthalmic q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Cyclosporine Ophthalmic dose for cats?
For cats, Cyclosporine Ophthalmic is typically dosed as follows — Used for immune-mediated conjunctivitis, eosinophilic keratitis, and corneal seq: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Cyclosporine Ophthalmic need a prescription?
Yes. Cyclosporine Ophthalmic 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