Cyclosporine for Cats

Cyclosporine is a member of the class of drugs called immunosuppressants. This medication is not approved for use in animals by the Food and Drug Administration, though it can legally be prescribed by veterinarians as an extra-label drug. The drug is designed to treat autoimmune diseases. In cats the immune system is the mechanism for guarding against infection or toxic materials. Feline autoimmune diseases occur when the system becomes overly responsive and begins to fight healthy cells.

  1. How It Works

    • Cyclosporine in veterinary formulations is sold as Atopica and Optimmune. This drug works by obstructing the calcium-ion uptake in certain white blood cells called lymphocytes. The cell is then rendered useless. Due to the suppression of the immune system, prolonged use can result in bacterial or fungal infections or the development of cancers such as lymphoma.

    Doses for Cats

    • Cats are usually prescribed cyclosporine as an oral medication, though it is available as an injection. The normal dose is 2 to 3 mg per pound at twice daily for cats. It is best to give your pet the drug two hours before or after feeding. Do not stop giving your cat the medication until the prescription is completed unless advised by your veterinarian. If there are any negative health or behavioral changes that occur with the onset of cyclosporine use, consult your veterinarian.

    Diseases Treated

    • Cyclosporine is prescribed to suppress the immune system in many feline illnesses. Some of these include immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (low iron levels), atopic dermatitis (skin rash), dry eye and perineal fistulas (anal fissures). Other conditions that may be treated by cyclosporine are noninflammatory hair loss and dirty face syndrome in Persian cats (a rash that causes the face to look dirty). These illnesses are ones that your veterinarian would need to diagnose and advise on treatment options. The website PetPlace reports that in some of these conditions, there is evidence that the drug is effective; however, for most of the illnesses the reports of efficacy rely on single case or anecdotal reports.

    Side Effects

    • Most cats do not suffer side effects from the use of cyclosporine. There are certain animals that should not be administered this medication due to pre-existing conditions. Do not use this drug in cats who are known to be allergic to it. Never use it in animals that have stomach ulcers, blood disorders or kidney problems. If your animal does suffer an adverse effect from the medication it will usually be lack of appetite. Other infrequent effects may include vomiting and diarrhea.

    Benefits

    • Cyclosporine was originally a drug used in transplant cases. According to Alison Diesel, DVM and Karen Moriello, DVM (School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Wisconsin), this medication should be added to any vet's list of possible therapies for autoimmune diseases and no longer be used only in transplant patients. The potential benefits and lack of side effects make this drug a viable option for treating your cat. Always consult your cat's vet before treating any medical condition.