Pilocarpine Oral Suspension (Anhydrous)
Pilocarpine is a compounded formulation containing Pilocarpine, prepared by Mixlab for veterinary use. Available by prescription.
How to Give Anhydrous Oral Suspension
Oral Suspension (Anhydrous) is a liquid medication that does not contain water in its base. This might be an oil-based or other special base to help stabilize the medicine. It will look like a regular liquid medication, but often needs a good shake because the drug can settle. Here's how to give it:
- Shake well each time to mix the medication (5-10 seconds).
- Measure the dose using the syringe/dropper provided or one recommended by your vet. Insert the top of the oral syringe into the bottle adapter. Turn the bottle upside down and pull the plunger until the medicine reaches the volume required
- Hold your pet steady: a towel or helper can assist with squirmy pets.
- Administer the dose slowly into the side of the mouth. Allow small pauses if needed for swallowing.
- Raise the head slightly to help the medication go down and clean any spills with a little water or tissue.
- Praise your pet and offer a treat or water (unless advised against feeding right after).
- Clean the syringe with water immediately after use. Store the bottle as directed, out of sunlight.
- Consistency is key: Shake each time, measure accurately, and contact your vet if any issues arise.
The uses and pharmacology described below reflect the FDA-approved labeling for this active ingredient; your veterinarian determines whether and how they apply to your animal's treatment plan.
Pilocarpine hydrochloride is a cholinergic agonist utilized in veterinary medicine for localized ophthalmic and neurological management. It is a prescription medication available as an eye drop for use in dogs and cats, frequently considered by veterinarians for patients presented with glaucoma or specific types of neurogenic dry nose. Your veterinarian will determine appropriateness based on an ophthalmic examination.
Prescription only. Use only under the direction of a licensed veterinarian. This information is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, prescribing or monitoring. Compounded drugs are not approved by the FDA for safety or effectiveness.
At a pharmacological level, it is considered to influence the parasympathetic nervous system by mimicking the effects of acetylcholine. Commonly observed effects include localized changes at the site of application such as pupil constriction (miosis), redness or temporary stinging. Systemic absorption may lead to increased salivation or digestive shifts. Owners should monitor for any persistent ocular discharge or cloudiness and contact their veterinarian promptly. It is typically used with caution in patients with active intraocular inflammation (uveitis).
Yes. Pilocarpine is a prescription medication and requires a valid authorization from a licensed veterinarian. Mixlab verifies all professional authorizations before preparing any medication.
Yes. While available in commercial eye drops, Mixlab specializes in compounding pilocarpine into customized strengths or specialized sterile vehicles if a customized preparation better suits your pet's needs.
Pupil constriction is a property of cholinergic medications like pilocarpine. This is considered to provide a method for influencing the drainage of fluid from the eye in pets with glaucoma.
Veterinarians may discuss oral use of pilocarpine drops for certain neurological conditions that influence moisture in the nose. Your veterinarian will provide specific guidance on this off-label management approach.
Your veterinarian will recommend periodic ophthalmic exams and intraocular pressure checks. This monitoring ensures the management approach remains safe and suitable for your pet's eye health.
