Home/Medicines/Glycerin (Glycerol), Oral
All medicines

Glycerin (Glycerol), Oral

Prescription
Osmotic Agent / IOP-Lowering Agent
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Osmotically active polyol alcohol that increases plasma osmolality after oral administration, drawing water from the vitreous humor and reducing intraocular pressure. Also used as an osmotic diuretic. Not metabolized to glucose (safe in diabetics).

At a glance

Class
Osmotic Agent / IOP-Lowering Agent
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature; do not freeze

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Emergency IOP reduction for acute glaucoma while awaiting definitive treatment
Dose
1–2 mL/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q8h (short-term only)
🐈

Cat

Same acute glaucoma indication
Dose
1–2 mL/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q8h (short-term)

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength
Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature; do not freeze

Safety

Monitoring parameters

IOP measurementHydration statusSerum osmolalityElectrolytes

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Osmoglyn

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Glycerin (Glycerol), Oral?
Glycerin (Glycerol), Oral is a osmotic agent / iop-lowering agent used in pets. Osmotically active polyol alcohol that increases plasma osmolality after oral administration, drawing water from the vitreous humor and reducing intraocular pressure. Also used as an osmotic diuretic. Not metabolized to glucose (safe in diabetics).
What is Glycerin (Glycerol), Oral used for in pets?
Glycerin (Glycerol), Oral is used in veterinary medicine for: Emergency IOP reduction for acute glaucoma while awaiting definitive treatment; Same acute glaucoma indication.
What is the Glycerin (Glycerol), Oral dose for dogs?
For dogs, Glycerin (Glycerol), Oral is typically dosed as follows — Emergency IOP reduction for acute glaucoma while awaiting definitive treatment: 1–2 mL/kg PO q8h (short-term only). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Glycerin (Glycerol), Oral dose for cats?
For cats, Glycerin (Glycerol), Oral is typically dosed as follows — Same acute glaucoma indication: 1–2 mL/kg PO q8h (short-term). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Glycerin (Glycerol), Oral need a prescription?
Yes. Glycerin (Glycerol), Oral 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 →