Trifluridine Ophthalmic

What is trifluridine ophthalmic?

Trifluridine ophthalmic (brand name Viroptic®) is an antiviral topical medication used to treat viral infections of the eye, such as herpesvirus-1 in cats. It may also be useful for treating canine herpesvirus-1 in dogs.

When trifluridine ophthalmic is prescribed in the treatment of herpesvirus in cats or dogs, it is used off label (extra label). Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How do I give trifluridine ophthalmic to my pet?

• Trifluridine ophthalmic comes as eye drops or can be compounded by your veterinarian into an eye ointment. Your veterinarian will provide specific instructions for your cat.
• It is important that you administer this drug to your cat’s eye in the exact amount it has been prescribed.
• Wait 5–10 minutes before applying any other medications to the eye.
• Avoid contamination of the eye medication’s applicator tip. Do not touch your cat’s eye with the dropper tip and keep a tight lid on the bottle when not in use.
• Wear disposable gloves when handling this medication.
• Do not give trifluridine ophthalmic if the solution becomes cloudy or contains particulate matter in the solution.
• Do not use trifluridine ophthalmic for longer than three weeks at a time.

Trifluridine ophthalmic is considered a  hazardous drug, so it is essential to avoid accidental exposure. Wear gloves when handling the medication and do not handle it if you are pregnant or nursing. If your pet vomits after receiving this drug, wear gloves while cleaning up.

This medication can take up to a few weeks before full effects are noted, but gradual improvements are usually noticeable after a few days.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next 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?

Trifluridine ophthalmic may cause the following side effects:

• Eye irritation, such as a burning sensation

Prolonged use of trifluridine ophthalmic can cause other eye conditions. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving trifluridine ophthalmic and contact your veterinarian immediately:

• Eye changes such as cloudiness, stippling (dotted appearance on the retina), or swelling

Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving trifluridine ophthalmic and contact your veterinarian immediately:

• Weakness
• Tiredness
• Mouth sores
• Fever

Drug 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 (e.g., irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face) and notify your veterinarian if you have any concerns.  

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.  This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE trifluridine ophthalmic in:

• Animals with hypersensitivity to the drug

USE WITH CAUTION in:

• Animals with glaucoma
• Animals that are pregnant or nursing

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Certain medications may interact with trifluridine ophthalmic, so be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, and herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store trifluridine ophthalmic?

• Store trifluridine ophthalmic in the refrigerator between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C), away from moisture and sunlight.
• Do not allow the medication to freeze.
• Store compounded forms of this medication according to the label.
• Keep the container out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of an emergency?

An overdose of eye medication is unlikely, but side effects or toxic effects could occur if your cat eats the medication. If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, 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.