Optimmune® 0.2% Ophthalmic Ointment

OPTIMMUNE (0.2% Cyclosporine, USP) Ophthalmic Ointment is indicated for management of chronic keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) and chronic superficial keratitis (CSK) in dogs.

This product contains a chemical on the Prop 65 List. 

Dogs

Cyclosporine

Petrolatum, USP; corn oil, NF; petrolatum; and lanolin alcohol.

Optimmune

Immunomodulator, Ophthalmic

Merck Animal Health

Each gram of Optimmune Ophthalmic Ointment contains 2 mg of cyclosporine, USP. Please ensure the selected product is appropriate for your pet, as recommended by your veterinarian.

For current availability, please refer to the product selection above.

Optimmune Ophthalmic Ointment should be applied to the affected eye(s) as directed by your veterinarian. Please consult your veterinarian before making any changes or discontinuing the prescribed dosing schedule.

Missed doses

If a dose is missed, administer it 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 more medication than prescribed or two doses at once.

If you have questions about your pet’s prescribed dosing schedule, please consult your veterinarian.

Store in a cool, dry place at a controlled temperature between 36° and 77° F. Keep this and all medications in a secure location out of the reach of children and animals to prevent accidental ingestion or overdose. Keep the tube cap tightly closed when not in use.

Exposure to extreme temperatures, light, or moisture can affect the integrity and effectiveness of medications. Always store medications properly (e.g., away from the bathroom, kitchen sink, or other damp places).

The most common side effects of this medication are inflammation and irritation of the eyes and surrounding area. Other reported side effects include eye watering/tearing, eye discomfort, and mild hair loss around the treated eye(s).

This may not be a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. Notify your veterinarian if your pet experiences any of the effects described above, or if you notice any other side effects that are persistent or troublesome.

If you notice anything unusual, please consult your veterinarian.

For ophthalmic use in dogs only.

The safety of OPTIMMUNE has not been determined in cases of preexisting viral or fungal ocular infections, nor in puppies, pregnant bitches, or dogs used for breeding. In clinical trials, ocular and periocular inflammatory reactions, transient hyperemia, epiphora, mild discomfort of the eye, and mild alopecia were reported in a small number of treated dogs.

Do not administer this medication to animals with a known or suspected allergy/hypersensitivity to it or any of its ingredients. Allergic reactions to medications may occur. Please inform Vetsource and your veterinarian if your pet has any known sensitivities or allergies, especially to medications and supplements.

If your pet displays symptoms of an allergic reaction, discontinue therapy and call your veterinarian immediately or seek emergency veterinary attention. Symptoms may include (but are not limited to): swollen lips, tongue, face, or airways; difficulty breathing; agitation; profuse salivation; and widespread hives or itching.

This medication is classified as hazardous due to potential exposure risks in humans, including individuals who are actively trying to conceive, as well as to women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, and those who may become pregnant. Handle with care and exercise appropriate safety precautions.

Gloves may be worn when handling and applying the medication. Hands should be thoroughly washed afterward, even if gloves are worn.

There are no documented drug or food interactions reported for this medication.

Ophthalmic medications, administered topically to the eyes, are not absorbed into the body in the same manner as oral or injectable medications. As a result, information regarding potential drug interactions is often limited; however, interactions may still be possible. As with all medications, please consult your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns prior to use. Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when multiple medications and/or supplements are given together.

Please ensure your veterinarian is aware of all medications, supplements, and over-the-counter (OTC) products that your pet is currently using. Your veterinarian may prescribe multiple medications, even if a potential drug interaction may occur. In these instances, your veterinarian may adjust the dosages or monitor your pet more closely.

If you are concerned that your pet has experienced an adverse reaction to this medication, please contact Merck Animal Health at 1-800-224-5318 or Vetsource Pet Owner Care at 877-738-4443.

If you have any reason to suspect an overdose, call your doctor/veterinarian or the appropriate poison control resource immediately.

For humans:

The national toll-free Poison Help line, 1-800-222-1222, will connect you to your local poison center in case of emergency. This service is available nationwide and in most U.S. territories.

For animals:

The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at 888-426-4435.

Pet Poison Helpline® also provides a 24/7 animal poison control service at 855-764-7661.

All content, including the images and product description above, is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional veterinary consultation, diagnosis, or treatment.

For additional information about this product and how it fits into your pet's individual treatment plan, please consult your veterinarian.