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Veterinary Pharmacy Articles

Cyclosporin

Why has my veterinarian prescribed this medicine?

Cyclosporin is an immunosuppressive agent. It is used to reduce the body’s natural immunity. An ointment for the eye is also available for treating keratoconjuctivitis sicca (dry eye syndrome).

How do I give this medication?

Oral

Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinarian. Read the label carefully.
If the medicine is a liquid, measure the dose with reasonable care.
Try to give this medication at about the same time each day.
DO NOT give the pet more medicine than directed and do not give more often than directed.
DO NOT stop giving this medication to your pet unless directed by your veterinarian. Call your veterinarian ahead of time if your pet needs a refill.
Try not to miss giving any doses.
The person administering the drug should wash their hands after handling the medication.

Eye ointment or drops

Apply to the eye as directed by the veterinarian.

What if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

How do I store this medicine?

Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight.
Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.
Store medication below 3 C.

Potential Side Effects

When giving oral medication your pet may experience the following side effects: vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite.
Your pet may also experience liver and kidney problems. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.
The eye preparation may result in local irritation with redness around the eye and excessive rubbing.
Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

Possible Drug Interactions

Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving to your pet.
Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, even if a drug interaction may occur. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
The following drugs can potentially interact with cyclosporin: gentamicin, amphotericin B, ketoconazole, erythromycin, cimetidine, phenobarbital, and phenytoin.
Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.

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