ExoticRx · exoticrx.com/drugs/acetylcysteine-ophthalmic
US brand names:Mucomyst Ophthalmic Compounded
Thiol compound that inhibits collagenase (matrix metalloproteinases) in melting corneal ulcers. Breaks disulfide bonds in mucus, also reducing mucus viscosity on the corneal surface.
Must be compounded for ophthalmic use. Essential for melting/keratomalacia ulcers. Apply every 1-2 hours initially. Stinging on application. Refrigerate compounded solutions. Short shelf life.
Species references:All Cat (Domestic) drugsAll Dog (Domestic) drugs
Each ExoticRx dose rule is graded by the strength of its primary evidence — see the editorial process.
A dog/cat sample is shown here. Cited dosing for all 2 species — reptiles, birds, pocket pets, livestock, and equine — is free on the per-species pages above. Pro adds the weight-based calculator for every species.
| Species | Route | Dose | Frequency | Evidence | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dog (Domestic) | Ophthalmic | CRITICAL for keratomalacia/melting ulcers | 1 drop affected eye q1-2h initially, then q4-6h | Strong | Ollivier, F.J., Gilger, B.C., Barrie, K.P., et al. (2007) Proteinases of the cornea and preocular tear film. Veterinary Ophthalmology, 10, 199-206. — Verified against Veterinary Ophthalmology (Gelatt), 6th Ed, p.1145 (2026-08-01). |
| Cat (Domestic) | Ophthalmic | Same indications as canine | 1 drop affected eye q1-2h initially, then q4-6h | Strong | Gelatt KN, Veterinary Ophthalmology, 6th Ed |
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