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Miconazole Ophthalmic

What is miconazole ophthalmic?

Miconazole ophthalmic is an eye medication used to treat fungal infections on the surface of the eye. It is used off-label in dogs, cats, horses, cattle and reptiles.

There are no veterinary or human formulations available. Miconazole ophthalmic is only available through compounding pharmacies. It should not be confused with other forms of miconazole products (e.g., Monistat®) meant to be used in humans as creams, ointments, or solutions to apply on the skin.

Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How do I give my pet miconazole ophthalmic?

  • Miconazole ophthalmic comes in a liquid drop format to be instilled directly into the eye (topically).
  • Follow your veterinarian’s instructions and give this medication exactly as directed.
  • Wash your hands before applying this medication.
  • Do not allow anything to touch the dropper tip, including your hands, to avoid contamination.
  • Gently wipe off any medication residue from the pet’s face with a damp cloth.
  • Wait 5 minutes after applying this medicine before applying any other medicines to the eye.
  • Do not use other forms of miconazole (e.g., forms applied to the skin) on the skin in the eye.
  • Do not handle this medication if you are pregnant.

This medication should take effect within 1–2 days; however, effects will not be noted outwardly, so laboratory tests may be needed to evaluate this medication’s effectiveness.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects from miconazole ophthalmic?

Miconazole ophthalmic may cause the following side effects:

  • Mild burning, stinging, irritation, or redness of the eyes
  • Squinting and tearing of the eyes after application
  • Sunburn on skin without fur where the medication is allowed to remain

Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving miconazole ophthalmic and contact your veterinarian immediately:

  • Signs of an allergy to this medication: labored or noisy breathing or swelling of the throat
  • Worsening of the eye condition after 7–10 days of treatment

Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE miconazole ophthalmic in:

  • Pets with a hypersensitivity or allergy to this medication
  • Pets that are pregnant or nursing

USE WITH CAUTION in:

  • Pets that are pregnant or nursing

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

There are no documented drug reactions for miconazole ophthalmic. Certain medications may interact with miconazole ophthalmic and so it is important to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

  • Your veterinarian may wish to perform laboratory tests to see if the fungal infection on the eye is resolved.
  • At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any side effects occur, discontinue use of the medication and contact your veterinarian.
  • Your veterinarian will let you know when they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.

How do I store miconazole ophthalmic?

  • Store this product in the refrigerator at 36°F–46°F (2°C–8°C) or at controlled room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C).
  • Do not freeze. Store upright and tightly closed in the original bottle.
  • Store compounded forms of this medication according to the label.
  • Keep the cap on the bottle closed tightly when not in use.
  • Protect from moisture, light and heat.
  • Keep medication out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms.

© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Last updated on Oct 17, 2025.