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Cyclosporine

Atopica, Optimmune(ophthalmic)

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Sourced from published veterinary references. Awaiting credentialed clinical reviewer — our editorial process.

Drug Class

Dermatologic

Routes

POTOPICAL

Indications

Allergic dermatitisAtopic dermatitiseosinophilic granuloma complexKeratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS)

Mechanism of Action

Binds cyclophilin, inhibiting calcineurin phosphatase. Blocks IL-2 transcription in T-helper lymphocytes, suppressing cell-mediated immunity.

Side effects & warnings

GI upset common initially (improves with time). Give on empty stomach or freeze capsules. Gingival hyperplasia. Immunosuppression — monitor for infections. Do not use modified and non-modified forms interchangeably.

Species with Cyclosporine dosing data (3 dose rules)

Cat (Domestic)Dog (Domestic)

Species references:All Cat (Domestic) drugsAll Dog (Domestic) drugs

Evidence levels across 3 dose rules

Strong×2Moderate×1

Each ExoticRx dose rule is graded by the strength of its primary evidence — see the editorial process.

Backed by a published source

  • · Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

Sample dosing (2 of 3 cited rules)

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.

SpeciesRouteDoseFrequencyEvidenceSource
Dog (Domestic)PO5 mg/kgq24h (initially), then q48h maintenanceStrongPlumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed
Cat (Domestic)PO7 mg/kgq24hModeratePlumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

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Calculate Dosage for Cyclosporine