Bimatoprost Ophthalmic

What is bimatoprost ophthalmic?

Bimatoprost ophthalmic is a topical eye medication prescribed off label to treat high fluid pressure and primary glaucoma in the eyes of dogs.

Bimatoprost ophthalmic is used off label in dogs. It does not effectively lower the inner eye pressure of cats and is unlikely to be effective in horses. There are no veterinary brands of bimatoprost ophthalmic, but several generic human brands. There is also an ophthalmic implant form of bimatoprost for humans called Durysta® that may be used off label in dogs.

Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How do I give my pet bimatoprost ophthalmic?

• Bimatoprost ophthalmic comes as a liquid eye drop to be administered on the surface of the eye. 
• Follow the instructions of the product label, in conjunction with your veterinarian’s directions. 
• Wash your hands before administering this medication
• Do not allow the dropper to touch any part of your animal’s eye.
• Shake the bottle well before using.
• If you are administering more than one eye medication, wait 5 minutes between each medication.
• If your pet is also prescribed an eye ointment, ask your veterinarian if it is better to use the eye drops or ointment first.
• If you have difficulty applying the medication or your animal does not accept the treatment, ask your veterinarian for tips to help with administering and reducing the stress of medication time.
• If any residue is left on your animal’s face after giving the eye drops, gently wipe it off with a damp cloth or tissue.

This medication should start having effects within 1 to 2 hours; however, you will not see the effects of this medication outwardly.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose of bimatoprost ophthalmic, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once. 

Are there any potential side effects from bimatoprost ophthalmic?

Bimatoprost ophthalmic is a prostaglandin. Pregnant women may wish to avoid the use of this drug in their households.

Bimatoprost ophthalmic may cause the following side effects:

• mild stinging, irritation, or redness of the eyes
• mild eye pain
• growth/thickening of eyelashes
• may cause eyes to become darker brown

Serious adverse reactions associated with this drug may occur without warning and could, in rare cases, lead to death. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving bimatoprost ophthalmic and contact your veterinarian immediately:

• labored or noisy breathing or swelling of the throat (indicates a severe allergic reaction) 
• sensitivity to bright light
• redness and inflammation of the eyelid

Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects may be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

It is not recommended to stop this medication abruptly.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

This medication should NOT BE USED in pets who:

• are allergic to it or other drugs like it (e.g., latanoprost)

This medication should be USED WITH CAUTION in pets who: 

• have inflammation within the eye, as the drug may worsen the inflammation or lead to a different form of glaucoma
• are missing a lens of the eye due to surgical removal or trauma (aphakic)

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment. There are no documented drug interactions for bimatoprost ophthalmic. 

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Routine testing for animals using bimatoprost ophthalmic includes testing intraocular eye pressure.
• Your veterinarian will let you know when they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any side effects occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store bimatoprost ophthalmic?

• Store in the fridge or controlled room temperature at 2°C-25°C (36°F-77°F).
• Store away from moisture and sunlight. 
• Do not freeze.
• Store in the original prescription container.
• Keep the cap tightly closed when not in use. 
• Keep away from children and other pets

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.