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
Safety
Schirmer Tear Test q4–8 weeksCorneal fluorescein stainingClinical signs (discharge, squinting)Allow 6–8 weeks before assessing full response
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.
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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