Pimecrolimus Ophthalmic

What is pimecrolimus ophthalmic?

Pimecrolimus ophthalmic is an eye medication used to treat certain immune-mediated inflammatory eye conditions in dogs such as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) and chronic superficial keratitis (CSK).

Pimecrolimus ophthalmic is used off label in dogs. There are no veterinary formulations available, and solutions and ointments meant for use in the eye must be compounded by a veterinary pharmacist. The human pimecrolimus ointment Elidel® is a topical skin product and should not be used in the eyes.

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 very carefully, as their directions may be significantly different from those on the label.

How do I give my pet pimecrolimus ophthalmic?

• Pimecrolimus ophthalmic comes in a liquid drop format to be instilled directly to the eye (topically).
• Follow your veterinarian’s instructions and give this medication exactly as directed.
• Wash your hands before and after applying this medication.
• Do not allow anything to touch the dropper tip, including your hands, to avoid contamination.
• Gently wipe any medication residue from your pet’s face with a damp cloth.
• Wait 5 minutes after applying this medicine before applying any other medicines to the eye.

Use this medication with caution, as human exposure to this drug has been linked to the development of cancer. This drug can also be found in the treated animal’s saliva, urine, or feces.

• DO NOT handle this drug if you are pregnant.
• Wear gloves when handling this medication. Dispose of used gloves immediately after use.
• Do not allow the drug to come into contact with your skin, eyes, or mucous membranes; if this occurs, contact your physician.
• Do not let treated animals lick human skin. If skin exposure occurs, the area should be washed thoroughly with soap and water.

This medication should take effect within 1–2 hours, and improvement in clinical signs should follow. However, it may take days to weeks to notice improvement. Do not stop giving your pet this medication without first consulting your veterinarian.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose of pimecrolimus ophthalmic, 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. Missed doses may cause return of the clinical signs of the condition.

Are there any potential side effects from pimecrolimus ophthalmic?

Pimecrolimus ophthalmic may cause the following side effects:

• Mild burning, stinging, irritation, or redness of the eyes
• Hair loss on the skin around the eye

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

• Signs of an allergy to this medication: labored or noisy breathing or swelling of the throat
• Weakness or tiredness

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 moderate-acting medication should stop working within a few days, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE pimecrolimus ophthalmic in:

• Pets with a hypersensitivity or allergy to this medication

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

The following medications should be used with caution when given with pimecrolimus ophthalmic:

• Calcium channel blockers
• Cimetidine
• Erythromycin
• Fluconazole
• Itraconazole
• Ketoconazole

Certain medications may interact with pimecrolimus ophthalmic, 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?

• Tests are recommended before and during treatment to evaluate tear production and indicate how well the drug is working.
• It is helpful to monitor clinical signs during treatment, such as a reduction in thick ocular discharge and eye redness and irritation.
• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.
• Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.

Pimecrolimus controls and improves your animal’s condition but does not cure it. This is a lifelong medication and must be used daily. Missed doses may cause a return of the clinical signs of the condition.

How do I store pimecrolimus ophthalmic?

• Store upright and tightly closed in the original bottle.
• Store this product at controlled room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C).
• Do not freeze.
• Protect from moisture, light, and heat.
• Store compounded forms of this medication according to the label.
• 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.