Updates

Advice on dry eye treatment from David Williams, Veterinary Ophthalmologist.

Every dog is different, so please discuss any change to your dog's treatment with your own vet or ophthalmologist before making it.

Immune-modulating treatments
Ciclosporin (Optimmune) and tacrolimus work by calming the immune system, and they are the standard treatments for immune-mediated dry eye. Among the dogs David is currently treating for sudden bilateral dry eye, tacrolimus has been working in quite a few cases. If your dog is not improving on its current treatment, ask your vet whether tacrolimus might be worth trying.

Tear replacement and lubrication
Keeping the eye well lubricated remains one of the most important parts of managing dry eye. David's preferred lubricant is Remend Corneal Repair Gel. The way it flows across the eye closely mimics natural tears. Supply has been difficult at times because it is made in the United States.

That said, there is no single right product. Each dog may respond best to a particular drop or gel, so it can take some trial to find the one that suits your dog. If your dog's current lubricant does not seem to be helping, speak to your vet about trying an alternative.

Important
Please do not stop or change any prescribed treatment without first speaking to your vet.

This advice is based on David's own conversations with owners of dogs affected by sudden bilateral dry eye. It is not based on a formal study or clinical trial and should not be taken as proven or as a substitute for your own vet's advice. Treatment decisions should always be made with your vet, based on your dog's
individual needs.

Years published their full investigation results.