Cat & Dog - Topical Eye Preparations

Why has my veterinary surgeon prescribed this medicine?

Preparations for eyes are available in the form of drops and ointments. They are used to treat a variety of disorders such as infection, inflammation (red eye), glaucoma, and keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye syndrome). Many eye conditions look similar and it is important that your pet is seen by a veterinary surgeon for a correct diagnosis before treatment is started, as some medicines can cause significant damage to the eye in certain conditions.

Some preparations for eyes are not available as veterinary preparations. Your veterinary surgeon may ask you to sign a consent form so a preparation licensed for humans can be used to treat your pet.

How do I give this medication?

• Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinary surgeon. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
• Your veterinary surgeon will show you how to put the drops or ointment in your pet's eye.
• Your may need to apply the treatment several times daily.
• Try to give this medication at about the same time(s) each day.
• DO NOT give the pet more medicine than directed and DO NOT give more often than directed.
• DO NOT discontinue the medication without first checking with your veterinary surgeon. Contact your veterinary surgeon in advance if your pet needs a repeat prescription.
• Try not to miss giving any doses.
• Wash your hands after handling the medication.
• In case of accidental ingestion, seek medical advice immediately and show the package leaflet or label to the physician.

What if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

How do I store this medicine?

Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and light. Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture. Some eye preparations may need to be stored in the refrigerator; your veterinary surgeon will advise you.

Potential side effects

• Although a drug has potential side effects, it does not mean that there is necessarily a high risk of any of these occurring. If you notice anything unusual, notify your veterinary surgeon.

Possible drug interactions

• Make sure to tell your veterinary surgeon what other medication you are giving to your pet.
• Quite often your veterinary surgeon may prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated. In this case, your veterinary surgeon may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
• Drugs may interact such that they can cause an increased or decreased effect or side effects. Although drug interactions may occur, it does not mean that there is necessarily a high risk of any of these occurring. The risk of serious drug interactions is low and should be kept in perspective.
• Contact your veterinary surgeon if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.