Dorzolamide

Major Uses

Dorzolamide is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor that is commonly used to treat many forms of glaucoma in dogs. It may also be useful for treating glaucoma in cats.

Common Precautions

Animals that are sensitive to sulfonamides should not use dorzolamide. Caution should be used when administering to pregnant or lactating animals, as well as animals with liver or kidney disease, as the possibility for complications exists. Animals with severe renal impairment should not use this drug.

The most common negative side effect associated with dorzolamide is local eye discomfort, which typically manifests as stinging and inflammation of the eyelids. Other possible adverse reactions include metabolic acidosis and excessive loss of potassium.

Dorzolamide should not be used in animals with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to the drug. A veterinarian should be contacted immediately if an overdose occurs.

Storage

Dorzolamide should be kept at room temperature and stored in a container that is resistant to light, childproof, and tightly sealed. It should not be exposed to excessive light and should be stored out of reach from children and pets.

Administration

Dorzolamide is typically supplied as a topical solution that is administered as an eye drop. It is typically administered two to three times a day. Treatment should continue until a veterinarian says otherwise, even if the patient appears to feel better. During administration, the eye dropper should not touch the patient, as the solution could become contaminated. In the case of a dose being forgotten, it should be administered as soon as possible. Two doses should not be administered at the same time, so if a dose is missed and it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped.

Doses may vary in different species, when the drug is given by a different route or concurrently with other medications, and with regards to a patient's age, breed, and health status. A veterinarian's dosing instructions and/or those printed on the medication label should be followed closely.