Acyclic nucleoside analog phosphorylated by viral thymidine kinase then cellular kinases to active triphosphate, which competitively inhibits viral DNA polymerase and incorporates into viral DNA causing chain termination. More potent than acyclovir against herpesvirus.
At a glance
Class
Ophthalmic Antiviral (Nucleoside Analog)
Storage
Store at room temperature; discard 28 days after opening
Dosing
Canine ocular herpesvirus is uncommon
Excellent for FHV-1 keratitis
Frequency
5x/day then taper
Safety
Corneal lesion healing (dendritic ulcer resolution)Fluorescein stainingSigns of secondary infection
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Ganciclovir Ophthalmic?
Ganciclovir Ophthalmic is a ophthalmic antiviral (nucleoside analog) used in pets. Acyclic nucleoside analog phosphorylated by viral thymidine kinase then cellular kinases to active triphosphate, which competitively inhibits viral DNA polymerase and incorporates into viral DNA causing chain termination. More potent than acyclovir against herpesvirus.
›What is Ganciclovir Ophthalmic used for in pets?
Ganciclovir Ophthalmic is used in veterinary medicine for: Canine ocular herpesvirus is uncommon; Excellent for FHV-1 keratitis.
›What is the Ganciclovir Ophthalmic dose for dogs?
For dogs, Ganciclovir Ophthalmic is typically dosed as follows — Canine ocular herpesvirus is uncommon: undefined undefined Ophthalmic N/A. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Ganciclovir Ophthalmic dose for cats?
For cats, Ganciclovir Ophthalmic is typically dosed as follows — Excellent for FHV-1 keratitis: undefined undefined Ophthalmic 5x/day then taper. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Ganciclovir Ophthalmic need a prescription?
Yes. Ganciclovir 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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