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Dorzolamide Ophthalmic

Prescription
Ophthalmic Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitor
Last reviewed 22 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Topical carbonic anhydrase II inhibitor that reduces aqueous humor production by the ciliary body. Lowers IOP without affecting pupil size or accommodation. Often combined with timolol (Cosopt) for additive effect.

At a glance

Class
Ophthalmic Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitor
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature; discard 28 days after opening

Dosing

🐕

Dog

First-line chronic glaucoma therapy
Dose
Route
Ophthalmic
Frequency
q8–12h
🐈

Cat

Used for feline glaucoma
Dose
Route
Ophthalmic
Frequency
q8–12h

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength
Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature; discard 28 days after opening

Safety

Monitoring parameters

IOP measurement q2–4 weeks initiallyOcular surface toleranceHeart rate (Cosopt — timolol)

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Trusopt
Merck
Cosopt (with timolol)
Merck

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Dorzolamide Ophthalmic?
Dorzolamide Ophthalmic is a ophthalmic carbonic anhydrase inhibitor used in pets. Topical carbonic anhydrase II inhibitor that reduces aqueous humor production by the ciliary body. Lowers IOP without affecting pupil size or accommodation. Often combined with timolol (Cosopt) for additive effect.
What is Dorzolamide Ophthalmic used for in pets?
Dorzolamide Ophthalmic is used in veterinary medicine for: First-line chronic glaucoma therapy; Used for feline glaucoma.
What is the Dorzolamide Ophthalmic dose for dogs?
For dogs, Dorzolamide Ophthalmic is typically dosed as follows — First-line chronic glaucoma therapy: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q8–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Dorzolamide Ophthalmic dose for cats?
For cats, Dorzolamide Ophthalmic is typically dosed as follows — Used for feline glaucoma: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q8–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Dorzolamide Ophthalmic need a prescription?
Yes. Dorzolamide 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 →

Related medicines

Other medicines in the same class (Ophthalmic Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitor).

Brinzolamide Ophthalmic
Rx
Topical carbonic anhydrase II inhibitor that reduces aqueous humor production in the ciliary body, lowering IOP. Unlike systemic CAIs (acetazolamide), topical brinzolamide has minimal systemic side effects.
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