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Pimecrolimus Ophthalmic

Prescription
Ophthalmic Calcineurin Inhibitor / Immunomodulator
Last reviewed 22 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Macrolactam calcineurin inhibitor (similar to tacrolimus) that binds macrophilin-12 (FKBP-12-like protein), blocking calcineurin and inhibiting T-cell activation and cytokine production. Used for immune-mediated ocular surface disease.

At a glance

Class
Ophthalmic Calcineurin Inhibitor / Immunomodulator
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Per compounding pharmacy instructions; typically room temperature

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for immune-mediated KCS, pannus (chronic superficial keratitis), and pigmen
Dose
Route
Ophthalmic
Frequency
q12h
🐈

Cat

Used for eosinophilic keratitis and immune-mediated conjunctivitis refractory to
Dose
Route
Ophthalmic
Frequency
q12h
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 →

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength

Storage

Per compounding pharmacy instructions; typically room temperature

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Schirmer tear testCorneal clarityClinical response at 4–8 weeks
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 →

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Pimecrolimus Ophthalmic (compounded)

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Pimecrolimus Ophthalmic?
Pimecrolimus Ophthalmic is a ophthalmic calcineurin inhibitor / immunomodulator used in pets. Macrolactam calcineurin inhibitor (similar to tacrolimus) that binds macrophilin-12 (FKBP-12-like protein), blocking calcineurin and inhibiting T-cell activation and cytokine production. Used for immune-mediated ocular surface disease.
What is Pimecrolimus Ophthalmic used for in pets?
Pimecrolimus Ophthalmic is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for immune-mediated KCS, pannus (chronic superficial keratitis), and pigmen; Used for eosinophilic keratitis and immune-mediated conjunctivitis refractory to.
What is the Pimecrolimus Ophthalmic dose for dogs?
For dogs, Pimecrolimus Ophthalmic is typically dosed as follows — Used for immune-mediated KCS, pannus (chronic superficial keratitis), and pigmen: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Pimecrolimus Ophthalmic dose for cats?
For cats, Pimecrolimus Ophthalmic is typically dosed as follows — Used for eosinophilic keratitis and immune-mediated conjunctivitis refractory to: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Pimecrolimus Ophthalmic need a prescription?
Yes. Pimecrolimus Ophthalmic is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
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 →

References

References

The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.

Textbooks & handbooks — 5

  • Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
  • Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
  • Merck Veterinary Manual
  • NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
  • Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)

Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4

  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
  • AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
  • ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
  • RECOVER CPR Guidelines

Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2

  • EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
  • JVIM FAT CAT Study

Regulatory & approvals — 1

  • CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)

Databases — 1

  • Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database
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