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
Storage
Per compounding pharmacy instructions; typically room temperature
Dosing
Used for immune-mediated KCS, pannus (chronic superficial keratitis), and pigmen
Used for eosinophilic keratitis and immune-mediated conjunctivitis refractory to
Safety
Schirmer tear testCorneal clarityClinical response at 4–8 weeks
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.
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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