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Topical Eye Preparations

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medicationWhy has my veterinarian 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 veterinarian for a correct diagnosis before treatment is started.

Some preparations for eyes are not available as veterinary preparations. This is also the case in Australia, however Australian veterinarians can prescribe this agents to dogs and cats with no further paper work required. Therefore I suggest you delete the following sentence: 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 veterinarian. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.

- Your veterinarian 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 veterinarian. Contact your veterinarian in advance if your pet needs a repeat prescription.

- Try not to miss giving any doses.

What do I do 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 veterinarian  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 veterinarian.

Possible drug interactions

- Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving to your pet.

- Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated. In this case, your veterinarian 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 veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.

© 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. Created on Aug 2, 2015.