Binds to FKBP-12, forming a complex that inhibits calcineurin phosphatase, thereby blocking T-lymphocyte activation and cytokine production (IL-2, IL-4). Suppresses local immune-mediated inflammation in KCS.
At a glance
Class
Calcineurin Inhibitor (Immunomodulator)
Storage
Compounded ointments typically refrigerated; check compounding pharmacy instructions
Dosing
Gold standard for immune-mediated KCS and pannus (chronic superficial keratitis)
Used for immune-mediated conjunctivitis and eosinophilic keratitis
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 →Safety
Schirmer Tear Test monthlyCorneal clarity and vascularizationMucus production
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.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Tacrolimus (Ophthalmic)?
Tacrolimus (Ophthalmic) is a calcineurin inhibitor (immunomodulator) used in pets. Binds to FKBP-12, forming a complex that inhibits calcineurin phosphatase, thereby blocking T-lymphocyte activation and cytokine production (IL-2, IL-4). Suppresses local immune-mediated inflammation in KCS.
›What is Tacrolimus (Ophthalmic) used for in pets?
Tacrolimus (Ophthalmic) is used in veterinary medicine for: Gold standard for immune-mediated KCS and pannus (chronic superficial keratitis); Used for immune-mediated conjunctivitis and eosinophilic keratitis.
›What is the Tacrolimus (Ophthalmic) dose for dogs?
For dogs, Tacrolimus (Ophthalmic) is typically dosed as follows — Gold standard for immune-mediated KCS and pannus (chronic superficial keratitis): undefined undefined Ophthalmic q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Tacrolimus (Ophthalmic) dose for cats?
For cats, Tacrolimus (Ophthalmic) is typically dosed as follows — Used for immune-mediated conjunctivitis and eosinophilic keratitis: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Tacrolimus (Ophthalmic) need a prescription?
Yes. Tacrolimus (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