A very effective drug is currently being used in the treatment of dry eyes in our pets. The drug, tacrolimus, is a potent immune-suppressing agent first used orally in human medicine to help prevent rejection of transplanted organs such as kidneys and hearts. The mechanism of action in treating dry eyes is to suppress certain types of white blood cells called "T"-lymphocytes. Many patients demonstrate an immediate increase in tear production while others show visual and clinical improvement without an increase in tears. Side effects are minimal but a small percentage of patients develop mild eyelid irritation and a few develop irritation of the eye if the concentration of the drug is too high. Unfortunately, this drug is a treatment and not a cure. This means that treatment will usually continue for the rest of your pet's life. Patients placed on tacrolimus must be free of other ocular diseases, such as corneal ulcers, and must be evaluated at regular intervals. Preliminary studies indicate that this product may be a major breakthrough in the treatment of dry eyes in our pets. Treatment will begin at a frequency determined by the doctor which is suspected will help your pet. This treatment may be increased or decreased as needed. The changing of the drug dosage will depend on the response to the drug. Recheck examinations will be as needed to assure that your pet is improving and no side effects are developing.
Have any questions on this subject? Contact
Dennis Hacker via E-mail:
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