Optixcare Eye EMS

What is Optixcare® Eye EMS?

Optixcare® Eye EMS (Extracellular Matrix Substitute) is a lubricating eye drop used in dogs, cats, and horses to promote corneal healing and reduce discomfort and pain within the eye. It contains RGTA® “ReGeneraTing Agent,” which acts as a building block for growth factors on the surface of the eye to rebuild a healthy eye surface (cornea).

Optixcare® Eye EMS is used mainly for pets who have recently injured their cornea, as a replacement for blood serum drops. Most commonly, it is used to assist in the healing of corneal ulcers. It may also be used in cases of chronic, non-healing corneal injuries.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not review non-drug health supplements (e.g., herbals, nutraceuticals, shampoos, and other supplements) for safety or effectiveness before they are sold to the public. Manufacturers of non-drug health supplements must ensure their supplements are safe and labeled accurately. The FDA requires that these non-pharmaceuticals contain a disclaimer that says, “This supplement is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” Health Canada licenses “veterinary health supplements” after reviewing safety, efficacy, and manufacturing information provided by the manufacturer. These supplements are not tested by Health Canada.

Your veterinarian is the best source of information about the safety of non-drug health supplements in pets. Just because a supplement is natural does not mean it is safe. All medicines and medicinal plants are potentially toxic if used inappropriately or given at high doses. Supplements can also have side effects, like pharmaceuticals. Few supplements and herbs have been subjected to rigorous scientific trials to determine their efficacy.

Although the information in this handout may be helpful, it may also be incomplete and may not represent the full range of effects the supplement could have on your pet.

How do I give my pet Optixcare® Eye EMS?

• Optixcare® Eye EMS is given a topical drop directly to the eye.
• Daily use does not improve efficacy and is not recommended.
• Wait 10 minutes after administration of Optixcare® Eye EMS before applying any other eye drops (to avoid flushing the product out of the eye).
• Each vial is a single-dose unit. Discard the open vial after application even if there are drops remaining.
• Always administer a full course of 5 doses.
• Optixcare® Eye EMS should be applied until the corneal ulcer is completely healed. In some severe cases, a second box may be necessary.

This supplement should take effect within 1–2 days and an improvement in clinical signs should follow.

What if I miss giving my pet Optixcare® Eye EMS?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled 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 Optixcare® Eye EMS?

Information on adverse reactions has not been made public by the manufacturer.

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. If you notice anything unusual, discontinue use and contact your veterinarian immediately.

This supplement should stop working within 48 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this supplement?

This supplement has no known risk factors.

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

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

Is any monitoring needed with this supplement?

• Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations regarding when your pet needs to be rechecked and what tests may need to be performed before and during treatment with this product.
• Your veterinarian will perform a fluorescein test (a dye-uptake test) to monitor the healing progress of the cornea 48 hours after the last application, and until the test indicates the eye has healed completely.
• If your pet is being treated at home, monitor it closely for any changes, including improvements or side effects such as those noted above. Contact your veterinarian with any changes.

How do I store Optixcare® Eye EMS?

• Store the product in its original packaging between 39°F and 77°F (4°C and 25°C).
• Discard the vial after application.
• Keep the container out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the supplement, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms. Report any adverse effects to the FDA or Health Canada.