Medications for Dogs That Prevent Eyesight Loss

There is an array of medications available for dogs that are losing their eyesight and need help to restore it. Luckily, scientists and vets alike have discovered medications that can treat disorders that would lead to complete vision loss, giving your dog a second chance at sight. Sometimes the vision gained back is not total, but it is enough for the dogs to see somewhat, dramatically increasing their quality of life.

  1. Ocu-GLO Rx™

    • Cataracts occur when there is opacity in the eye lens. Sometimes the opacity is small and does not bother eyesight. Sometimes the opacity grows to cover the whole eye and can also spread to the other eye. Dogs can go totally blind if cataracts are left untreated. When the whole lens becomes cloudy, function of the eye is lost. Ocu-GLO Rx™ is a medication developed by two veterinary ophthalmologists. It has 12 antioxidants and is specifically used to treat the canine eye. It promotes lens and retina health. This medication can curb the cloudiness in the lens and render it less severe. You may take this route if you do not wish your dog to undergo surgery. It may improve your dog's vision.

    Cyclosporin

    • Dry Eye syndrome, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is a typical problem for dogs. However, chronic dry eye may lead to blindness. Medications given to dogs with dry eye must stimulate tear production. Antibiotics, mucolytics and hormone treatments also are applied to the eyes. Cyclosporin is a drug that stimulates tear production and relieves dry eye and scarring to the eye by keeping it wet and lubricated.

    Xalatan, Timolol or Trusopt

    • Glaucoma occurs when the channels that circulate fluid through the eye get blocked. This leads to painful pressure within the eye. Glaucoma starts in one eye, but can spread to both eyes if gone untreated. Xalatan, timolol or trusopt are common medications used to ease glaucoma symptoms. They help decrease fluid and pressure in the eyes. Your dog may also be prescribed acetazolamide or ormethazolamide, which lowers fluid production. Sometimes these medications are not enough to help your dog and it will have to have surgery.