KCS-Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, Topical ophthalmic, Eye drop
Brand Names
Protopic®, Tacrolimus
Drug Information
Pharmacology
Appears to stimulate tear production.
Topically it acts similarly to CycloSPORINE inhibiting T-lymphocyte activity and inhibiting the inflammatory process.
Contraindications
General
- Owners should be advised to wear gloves when applying tacrolimus opthalmically or topically to their pet.
Adverse Effects
General
- Appears to be well tolerated in dogs but local irritation and pruritus have been reported in people and dogs using the product.
- Tacrolimus has an FDA mandated “black box” warning that use may increase the risk for skin cancer and lymphomas in humans though a causal relationship has not been established.
Interactions
Drug Interactions
Tinidazole
- Tinidazole may increase the serum levels of systemic tacrolimus.
Voriconazole
- Decrease dose of tacrolimus by 33% when starting voriconazole.
Available Forms
Human
- Protopic® ointment is a topical tacrolimus formulated with propylene carbonate that is known to deplete cholinesterase and to be an ophthalmic irritant and should not be used in the eye. Tarolimus 0.01 – 0.03% solutions and ointments should be prescribed through a compounding pharmacy for ophthalmic use.
Veterinary – General
- None Tarolimus 0.01 – 0.03% solutions and ointments should be prescribed through a compounding pharmacy for ophthalmic use. Protopic® ointment is a topical tacrolimus formulated with propylene carbonate that is known to deplete cholinesterase and to be an ophthalmic irritant and should not be used in the eye.
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