Optimmune Ophthalmic Ointment (Cyclosporine 0.2%) - 3.5 gm

FDA-Approved Cyclosporine Eye Ointment for Dry Eye in Dogs

Product Description

Optimmune Ophthalmic Ointment (0.2% Cyclosporine) is the only FDA-approved veterinary cyclosporine eye product for dogs. This sterile, preservative-free ointment manages two chronic immune-mediated eye conditions, dry eye (KCS) and chronic superficial keratitis (CSK), by calming local inflammation and supporting the eye's own tear production. Most dogs do best when treatment is kept up consistently for life.

Benefits

• Only FDA-Approved Product: The sole FDA-approved veterinary cyclosporine ophthalmic ointment made specifically for use in dogs.
• Treats Dry Eye (KCS): Reduces immune-mediated damage to the tear glands and helps the eye produce its own natural tears again.
• Manages Pannus (CSK): Suppresses T-cell activity to calm the immune-driven corneal inflammation that defines chronic superficial keratitis.
• Clinically Proven Results: Controlled trials showed Optimmune raised tear production by an average of 8 to 9 mm over a 12-week period.
• No Systemic Toxicity: Applying the drug directly to the eye keeps it localized, avoiding the organ toxicity that comes with systemic cyclosporine use.
• Preservative-Free Formula: The sterile, preservative-free base lowers the risk of chemical irritation and reduces the chance of secondary eye infections.
• Long Shelf Life: Remains effective for up to 24 months and does not need to be kept in a refrigerator.

Ingredients

Composition Table

Other Ingredients

Petrolatum USP, Corn Oil NF, Petrolatum and Lanolin Alcohol

How to Use

Directions for Use

• Prescription Required: US Federal law limits this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian only.
• For Dogs Only: Optimmune is made for topical ophthalmic use in dogs only and must never be used in other species.
• Clean Eyes First: Gently clear any discharge or debris from around the eye with a suitable non-irritating solution before each application.
• Apply Twice Daily: Squeeze a quarter-inch strip of ointment into the affected eye every 12 hours.
• Placement Options: The ointment can go directly onto the cornea or be placed into the conjunctival sac, whichever your veterinarian recommends.
• Avoid Tube Contact: The tip of the tube must never touch the eye, your hands, or any surface to keep it free from contamination.
• Space Multiple Medications: If your dog uses other eye products, wait 5 to 10 minutes between each one so they can absorb properly.
• Start Treatment Early: Beginning Optimmune early in the course of KCS gives the best results, before corneal scarring or permanent tear gland damage sets in.
• Missed Dose: Give the missed dose as soon as you remember; if the next dose is almost due, skip the missed one and carry on with the regular schedule.

Disclaimer: This dosage information is provided by the manufacturer. Always consult your veterinarian before administering or adjusting any supplement for your pet.

Additional Information

Precautions

• Do Not Stop Abruptly: Stopping Optimmune causes rapid worsening of signs in nearly all KCS cases; always speak to your vet before making any changes.
• Puppies and Breeding Dogs: Safety has not been studied in puppies, pregnant females, or dogs kept for breeding purposes.
• Existing Eye Infections: Use in dogs with pre-existing viral or fungal eye infections has not been evaluated for safety.
• Certain KCS Causes: Effectiveness is unknown in KCS caused by congenital alacrima, sulfonamide use, canine distemper, or facial nerve paralysis.
• Avoid Unapproved Eye Medications: Do not apply other eye treatments at the same time unless your veterinarian has specifically approved them.
• Switching Therapies: Noticeable improvement may take a little time when transitioning to Optimmune from a different eye treatment.
• Persistent Irritation: If eye irritation carries on beyond 7 days, a sensitivity to one of the formula components should be considered and investigated by your vet.

Possible Side Effects

• Temporary Eye Discomfort: Some dogs experience mild burning, redness, tearing, stinging, or itching shortly after each application.
• Transient Blurred Vision: The ointment base may cause a brief blurring of your dog's vision right after each application, which clears quickly.
• Eyelid Inflammation: Blepharitis and blepharospasm were seen in clinical studies, most commonly during the early stages of treatment.
• Pawing at Eyes: Some dogs show discomfort or paw at their eyes early in treatment; this typically settles down as treatment continues.
• Accidental Ingestion Risk: If your dog chews or swallows the tube, contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic straight away for guidance.

Storage Information

• Store at Room Temperature: Room temperature storage works fine; just make sure the tube does not go below 2°C (36°F) or above 25°C (77°F).
• Check Expiration Date: Shelf life is up to 24 months; never use the ointment after the expiry date printed on the tube.
• Keep Away from Children: Store this prescription ointment somewhere children and other animals simply cannot access.

Shipping & Return

We offer ground, express, and priority delivery; see our shipping policy for details.

For return instructions or product concerns, please refer to our detailed refund policy.

Prescription items are NON-RETURNABLE and NON-REFUNDABLE.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What does Optimmune eye ointment treat in dogs?

Ans: Optimmune manages two chronic immune-mediated eye conditions in dogs. The first is keratoconjunctivitis sicca, or dry eye, where the eye stops producing enough tears. The second is chronic superficial keratitis, where the cornea becomes progressively inflamed. It works by calming eye inflammation and supporting tear production.

Q2: How does cyclosporine in Optimmune work for dogs with dry eye?

Ans: Cyclosporine blocks T-cell activity, reducing the immune system's attack on the tear glands. This lowers inflammation in the eye and encourages the tear glands to produce more tears. Some dogs show improvement through inflammation control alone, even before tear production measurably increases.

Q3: Will my dog need Optimmune for life?

Ans: Most dogs with KCS or CSK need Optimmune long-term. Clinical studies showed that stopping treatment causes signs to return quickly in nearly all chronic KCS cases. Your vet will check in periodically to assess whether continued therapy remains the right approach for your dog.

Q4: How quickly does Optimmune start working in dogs?

Ans: Around 6 mm of the average 8 to 9 mm improvement in tear production occurred within the first week in clinical trials. Results may take longer to show when switching from artificial tears. Starting early in the disease course consistently gives the best long-term outcomes.

Q5: Can Optimmune be used in puppies or pregnant dogs?

Ans: No. Safety in puppies, pregnant females, or dogs used for breeding has not been established. It has also not been studied in dogs with existing viral or fungal eye infections. Always check with your veterinarian before starting any new eye medication in these animals.

Clinical Research

American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists – KCS in Dogs

PetMD – Cyclosporine Ophthalmic for Dogs

VCA Hospitals – Dry Eye in Dogs

Drugs.com – Veterinary Cyclosporine Eye Ointment