ExoticRx · exoticrx.com/drugs/tacrolimus-ophthalmic
US brand names:Protopic Ophthalmic Compounded
Calcineurin inhibitor 10-100x more potent than cyclosporine. Inhibits T-lymphocyte activation and proliferation, reducing lacrimal gland inflammation.
Used for KCS refractory to cyclosporine ophthalmic. Must be compounded. More effective than cyclosporine in some cases. Mild local irritation possible.
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 | 10-100x more potent than cyclosporine | Apply 0.02-0.03% ointment to affected eye(s) q12h | Strong | Adkins, E.A., Hendrix, D.V.H., Stuffle, J.L., et al. (2003) An Investigation of the Safety And Efficacy Of Topical Ophthalmic Application Of Tacrolimus In Dogs. 34th Annual Meeting of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists, p. 39. Coeur D'Alene, ID, USA. — Verified against Veterinary Ophthalmology (Gelatt), 6th Ed, p.450 (2026-08-01). |
| Cat (Domestic) | Ophthalmic | Compounded formulation | Apply 0.02% ointment to affected eye(s) q12h | Moderate | Gelatt KN, Veterinary Ophthalmology, 6th Ed |
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