Dorzolamide HCl Ophthalmic Solution

Glaucoma in dogs can be a progressive condition (where it gradually becomes worse), or it may be sudden and acute. According to Katie Grzyb, who pursued her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Ross University, some of its early-stage symptoms include watery discharge from eyes, swelling or bulging, pupil dilation, squinting, redness, and a cloudy appearance. Affected dogs may show increased sensitivity to light and may have a constant urge to rub their eyes. In case the glaucoma is acute, the dog may experience high pressure in the eyes, redness, and slow-moving pupils. Pet parents must keep an eye out for such early signs for prompt disease management and treatment.

According to the University of Missouri, MU Veterinary Health Center, primary glaucoma is a condition that is most commonly found among purebred dogs. The breeds that are most likely to develop primary glaucoma include poodles, beagles, Basset hounds, chow chows, and terrier breeds. In some cases, this condition may be found in mixed-breed dogs as well. In any case, primary glaucoma is predisposed to affect one eye first, after which it gradually spreads to the other as well.

Glaucoma is a condition caused due to improper fluid drainage from the eye. This leads to a high level of intraocular pressure, or IOP, which is where the problem lies. According to John May, a DVM from Cornell University, if this intraocular pressure extends for prolonged periods, it can damage your dog’s optic nerve. When that occurs, they may suffer from vision loss in that eye. Whether caused as a primary or secondary condition, pet parents must know that glaucoma is an emergency. It can lead to irreversible blindness within 24 hours (especially when the condition is acute and aggressive).

Cats can develop glaucoma, but this condition may have certain exceptions in their case. For instance – Primary feline glaucoma is pretty rare. It may only be found in Siamese or Burmese cats. Other than that, a cat may have glaucoma in one eye (even severe) but never develop it in the other eye. In most feline breeds, secondary glaucoma is commonly observed. The symptoms in cats may be similar to those found in dogs. They will experience watery discharge, eyeball bulging, bloodshot eyes, dilated pupils, and a cloudy appearance. There may also be some subtle signs present, including becoming less affectionate, hiding, or decreased grooming.

The spectrum of surgical and therapeutic treatments for glaucoma is growing. Even so, it is an incurable condition. In many cases, the disorder is diagnosed too late to save the animal’s eye. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, the disease’s prognosis largely depends upon its underlying causes. Most affected animals will require medication and treatment for the long haul. There are medicated eye drops available to prevent nerve damage and reduce the risk of vision loss. However, it is important to catch the early signs of this condition. Other treatment procedures include surgery, analgesics, and the use of carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.

The most common medicated eye drops prescribed for pets with glaucoma is the Dorzolamide HCL ophthalmic solution. It helps reduce the pressure around the eyes, decreases pain and swelling, and lowers the risk of nerve damage or vision loss. In general, Dorzolamide HCL ophthalmic solution’s recommended dosage is one drop three times a day. However, pet parents must monitor their pet’s response to this therapy and adjust the dosage accordingly. The ideal time would be right before feeding or some exciting activity that the pet usually enjoys. This is because the eye drops may sting a bit, so distractions are always welcome.

Most pets (dogs or cats) respond well to the regular dosage of Dorzolamide HCL ophthalmic solution. However, there may be side effects involved in some cases. These include sore eyes and swelling, temporarily blurred vision, itchiness, and a stinging sensation in the eyes. These side effects are mostly seen in cases where the drops are used for prolonged periods. If you find any of these signs after administering the eye drops, take your pet to their veterinarian for a quick check-up.

Dogs may be affected with primary or secondary glaucoma. Primary glaucoma is a leading cause of permanent vision loss in animals. Some dog breeds, like the basset hound and cocker spaniel, are more susceptible than others to developing this condition. Based on their breed predilection, such dogs may have developed this condition due to genetic factors. This is why affected dogs must be excluded from breeding, as their offspring are likely to experience similar complications.