Optimmune is a sterile eye ointment containing cyclosporine which helps to treat keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS or dry eye) in dogs. Optimmune requires a prescription from your veterinarian.
Dogs
Cyclosporine has broad anti-inflammatory effects that help to reduce damage to the tear glands while also stimulating tear production.
Do not touch the tube opening to any surface including eyes or hands. This medication may cause blurred vision. Avoid using other eye medications unless approved by the veterinarian.
Optimmune Ophthalmic Ointment (Schering-Plough)
Cyclosporine
Optimmune Ophthalmic is FDA approved for veterinary use in dogs only. Optimmune Ophthalmic is a prescription medication available as a sterile eye ointment. The sterile ointment is usually applied as a 1/4 inch strip to the eye(s) every 12 hours. Do not touch the tube opening to any surface, including eyes and hands. The tube opening is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in the eye.
Optimmune ophthalmic is an immunosuppressive agent used to reduce inflammation in the eye(s). Optimmune ophthalmic is used to treat chronic dry eye (KCS, keratoconjunctivitis sicca) that may be caused by inflammation. Optimmune Ophthalmic may also be used for purposes other than those listed.
Do not use Optimmune Ophthalmic if the pet has any type of infection in the eye(s). Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant or lactating.
Use this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. If you do not understand the directions ask the pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. Wash your hands prior to using the eye ointment. Apply a 1/4 inch strip of the ointment into the lower eyelid. Store Optimmune Ophthalmic at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep the tube properly capped.
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and apply the next one as directed. Do not give a double dose of the medication.
An overdose of this medication is unlikely. If an overdose is suspected, wash the eye with water and seek emergency veterinary medical treatment.
Do not touch the tube opening to any surface including eyes or hands. This medication may cause blurred vision. Avoid using other eye medications unless approved by the veterinarian.
Serious side effects are not expected. Some burning, redness, tearing, discharge, pain, itching, stinging, or blurring of the eye may occur. Continue the medication and talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to the animal.
Before using Optimmune Ophthalmic, tell your veterinarian if your pet is using other eye ointment or eye medications. Drugs other than those listed may also interact with Optimmune Ophthalmic. Talk to the veterinarian or pharmacist before giving any prescription or over the counter medicines.
Your pharmacist has additional information about Optimmune Ophthalmic written for health professionals that you may read.
The tube opening is sterile. Do not touch the tube opening to any surface, including eyes and hands. If the opening becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in the eye(s).
Store this product at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep the tube properly capped.