Glycerin
Also known as: Osmoglyn
> **Important**: This medication is typically given in the clinic during an eye emergency (like acute glaucoma) to rapidly save your pet's vision. * **Withholding Water**: You may be instructed to withhold water from your pet for 3-4 hours after they receive this medication. *Why?* Drinking water will counteract the drug's ability to pull excess fluid out of the eye. * **Nausea/Vomiting**: Glycerin is a very sweet, thick syrup that can upset the stomach. Mixing it with a small amount of milk or ice cream can help prevent vomiting. * **Monitoring**: Watch for signs of dehydration or excessive urination once you take your pet home.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Acute glaucoma
- Acute glaucoma
- Acute glaucoma (emergency reduction of IOP)
- Acute glaucoma
- Acute glaucoma
- Acute glaucoma (emergency reduction of IOP)
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Vomiting (most common)
- Headache (reported in humans)
- Nausea
- Thirst
- Diarrhea
Cautions & contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to glycerin
- Well-established anuria
- Severe dehydration
- Severe cardiac decompensation
- Frank or impending acute pulmonary edema
- Diabetes mellitus (relative/absolute depending on source)
- Chronic renal failure or compromised renal function
- Use with caution in animals when the **blood:ocular barrier is not intact** (e.g., hyphema, uveitis), and in those with **hypovolemia, cardiac disease, or diabetes**. Acute urinary retention should be avoided during the preoperative period. Safety in pregnant animals is unknown (FDA Category C in humans); use only when potential benefits outweigh the risks. Lactation safety is unknown.
Drug interactions
- Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., acetazolamide, dichlorphenamide): Concomitant administration may prolong the IOP-reducing effects of glycerin.
- Topical miotic agents: Concomitant administration may prolong the IOP-reducing effects of glycerin.
Frequently asked questions
What is Glycerin used for in pets?
> **Important**: This medication is typically given in the clinic during an eye emergency (like acute glaucoma) to rapidly save your pet's vision. * **Withholding Water**: You may be instructed to withhold water from your pet for 3-4 hours after they receive this medication. *Why?* Drinking water will counteract the drug's ability to pull excess fluid out of the eye. * **Nausea/Vomiting**: Glycerin is a very sweet, thick syrup that can upset the stomach. Mixing it with a small amount of milk or ice cream can help prevent vomiting. * **Monitoring**: Watch for signs of dehydration or excessive urination once you take your pet home.
Is Glycerin safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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