Potent glucocorticoid that suppresses inflammatory cytokines, prostaglandins, and cellular immune responses in ocular tissues. Reduces protein exudation, vascular permeability, and fibrin deposition.
At a glance
Class
Ophthalmic Corticosteroid
Storage
Store at room temperature; shake suspension before use; discard 28 days after opening
Dosing
Used for anterior uveitis, post-surgical inflammation, immune-mediated keratitis
Avoid in cats with FHV-1 keratitis (may exacerbate herpetic disease)
Safety
Intraocular pressure (baseline and monthly)Corneal fluorescein staining before each refillLens clarity
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Dexamethasone (Ophthalmic)?
Dexamethasone (Ophthalmic) is a ophthalmic corticosteroid used in pets. Potent glucocorticoid that suppresses inflammatory cytokines, prostaglandins, and cellular immune responses in ocular tissues. Reduces protein exudation, vascular permeability, and fibrin deposition.
›What is Dexamethasone (Ophthalmic) used for in pets?
Dexamethasone (Ophthalmic) is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for anterior uveitis, post-surgical inflammation, immune-mediated keratitis; Avoid in cats with FHV-1 keratitis (may exacerbate herpetic disease).
›What is the Dexamethasone (Ophthalmic) dose for dogs?
For dogs, Dexamethasone (Ophthalmic) is typically dosed as follows — Used for anterior uveitis, post-surgical inflammation, immune-mediated keratitis: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q4–12h (taper). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Dexamethasone (Ophthalmic) dose for cats?
For cats, Dexamethasone (Ophthalmic) is typically dosed as follows — Avoid in cats with FHV-1 keratitis (may exacerbate herpetic disease): undefined undefined Ophthalmic q6–8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Dexamethasone (Ophthalmic) need a prescription?
Yes. Dexamethasone (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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