Iodinated thymidine analog phosphorylated intracellularly and incorporated into viral and host DNA, causing faulty transcription and inhibiting viral replication. First antiviral developed. Requires frequent dosing due to poor corneal penetration.
At a glance
Class
Ophthalmic Antiviral (Nucleoside Analog)
Storage
Refrigerate compounded solution; protect from light; use within 14–21 days
Dosing
Canine herpes keratitis is rare
Used for FHV-1 keratitis and conjunctivitis
Safety
Corneal lesion responseCorneal epithelial healthSigns of toxicity (>2 weeks continuous use)
Interactions
No documented interactions.
Brands
Other markets
Idoxuridine Ophthalmic (compounded)
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Idoxuridine Ophthalmic?
Idoxuridine Ophthalmic is a ophthalmic antiviral (nucleoside analog) used in pets. Iodinated thymidine analog phosphorylated intracellularly and incorporated into viral and host DNA, causing faulty transcription and inhibiting viral replication. First antiviral developed. Requires frequent dosing due to poor corneal penetration.
›What is Idoxuridine Ophthalmic used for in pets?
Idoxuridine Ophthalmic is used in veterinary medicine for: Canine herpes keratitis is rare; Used for FHV-1 keratitis and conjunctivitis.
›What is the Idoxuridine Ophthalmic dose for dogs?
For dogs, Idoxuridine Ophthalmic is typically dosed as follows — Canine herpes keratitis is rare: undefined undefined Ophthalmic N/A. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Idoxuridine Ophthalmic dose for cats?
For cats, Idoxuridine Ophthalmic is typically dosed as follows — Used for FHV-1 keratitis and conjunctivitis: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q4–6h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Idoxuridine Ophthalmic need a prescription?
Yes. Idoxuridine 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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