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Vancomycin Ophthalmic

Prescription
Ophthalmic Glycopeptide Antibiotic
Last reviewed 22 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding D-Ala-D-Ala terminal of peptidoglycan precursors, preventing cross-linking. Active against all gram-positive organisms including MRSA and MRSP. Last-resort ophthalmic antibiotic for MDR gram-positive keratitis.

At a glance

Class
Ophthalmic Glycopeptide Antibiotic
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Refrigerate compounded solution; use within 7–14 days; protect from light

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Reserved for MRSA/MRSP corneal infections confirmed by culture
Dose
Route
Ophthalmic
Frequency
q1–6h depending on severity
🐈

Cat

Same MDR gram-positive indications
Dose
Route
Ophthalmic
Frequency
q4–6h

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength

Storage

Refrigerate compounded solution; use within 7–14 days; protect from light

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Culture and sensitivityCorneal healing responseAntimicrobial stewardship compliance

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Vancomycin Ophthalmic (compounded)

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Vancomycin Ophthalmic?
Vancomycin Ophthalmic is a ophthalmic glycopeptide antibiotic used in pets. Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding D-Ala-D-Ala terminal of peptidoglycan precursors, preventing cross-linking. Active against all gram-positive organisms including MRSA and MRSP. Last-resort ophthalmic antibiotic for MDR gram-positive keratitis.
What is Vancomycin Ophthalmic used for in pets?
Vancomycin Ophthalmic is used in veterinary medicine for: Reserved for MRSA/MRSP corneal infections confirmed by culture; Same MDR gram-positive indications.
What is the Vancomycin Ophthalmic dose for dogs?
For dogs, Vancomycin Ophthalmic is typically dosed as follows — Reserved for MRSA/MRSP corneal infections confirmed by culture: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q1–6h depending on severity. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Vancomycin Ophthalmic dose for cats?
For cats, Vancomycin Ophthalmic is typically dosed as follows — Same MDR gram-positive indications: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q4–6h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Vancomycin Ophthalmic need a prescription?
Yes. Vancomycin 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. Find a vet near you →