ExoticRx · exoticrx.com/drugs/cidofovir-ophthalmic
US brand names:Vistide(compounded)
Nucleotide analog that inhibits viral DNA polymerase. Does not require viral thymidine kinase for activation, effective against TK-resistant strains.
Compounded from IV formulation. Handle with gloves. Mild local irritation. Used for FHV-1 keratitis in cats. Twice daily dosing (less frequent than other antivirals).
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cat (Domestic) | TOPICAL (ophthalmic) | Less frequent dosing than other antivirals (q12h vs q4-6h) | q12h | Moderate | Fontenelle JR, Powell CC, Veir JK, Radecki SV, Lappin MR. Effect of topical ophthalmic application of cidofovir on experimentally induced primary ocular feline herpesvirus-1 infection in cats. Am J Vet Res. 2008;69:289-293. doi:10.2460/ajvr.69.2.289 — Verified against Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 10th Ed, p.1381 (2026-08-01). — SOURCE EDITION: Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook — ISBN 9781394172207, https://openlibrary.org/isbn/9781394172207 |
| Dog (Domestic) | TOPICAL (ophthalmic) | Rare indication in dogs | q12h for 14 days | Extrapolated |
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View PlansSource citations and evidence levels available on the live page. Reference only — verify against current literature before clinical use.