How long until Optimmune works?

Improvement in tear production usually takes 4-8 weeks. Schirmer tear tests check progress.

Can I stop Optimmune if my dog's eyes look better?

No - KCS recurs without continued treatment. Lifelong use is the norm.

Optimmune Eye Ointment price comparison UK

Topical ciclosporin ointment for keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye, KCS) in dogs. Lifelong therapy for most cases. Active ingredient: ciclosporin. Below: compare UK vet prices with VMD-approved online pharmacies for your dog's weight.

Dog weight (kg)Your vet's price per month (optional, £)

Typical vet price

£26.00–£38.00/mo

indicative UK range

Cheapest online

£18.50/mo

Pet Drugs Online

Annual saving

£90.00–£234.00

after £21 prescription fee: £69.00–£213.00

Based on a 15 kg dog, recommended strength: 3.5 g. Assumes 12 months of continuous use (chronic dosing) and one written prescription per year. CMA Order caps the prescription fee at £21 for the first medicine, plus £12.50 per additional medicine on the same prescription. Prices are indicative and last verified 2026-05-15. Always confirm the current price on the pharmacy site before purchase.

Pharmacy	Pack	Pack price	Monthly cost	Buy
Pet Drugs Online VMD approved · Free over £39	1 tube	£18.50	£18.50 Best value	Buy from Pet Drugs Online
Animed Direct VMD approved · Free over £29, next-day available	1 tube	£19.61	£19.61	Buy from Animed Direct
VetUK VMD approved · Free over £29	1 tube	£20.90	£20.90	Buy from VetUK

What Optimmune Eye Ointment treats

Topical ciclosporin ointment for keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye, KCS) in dogs. Lifelong therapy for most cases.

Why it costs more at the vet

MSD-branded ophthalmic preparation, dispensed at routine vet mark-up. Lifelong use makes the saving significant over time.

Ready to switch? It takes 5 minutes.

Email template, prescription steps and refill setup — the full path from "I just paid too much at the vet" to "I'm saving £X every month".

Open the 5-minute switch guide →

How to get a written prescription

The CMA Order is legally binding by 23 September 2026. Every UK vet must offer a written prescription on request, with the fee capped at £21 for the first medicine plus £12.5 per additional medicine on the same prescription. Take the prescription to any VMD-approved online pharmacy listed above. We have a short guide with a template email you can send to your practice.

Read the full prescription guide →

Common side effects

Local irritation (rare)

This is not a complete list. Always read the patient information leaflet and speak to your vet about side effects.

FAQ

How long until Optimmune works?: Improvement in tear production usually takes 4-8 weeks. Schirmer tear tests check progress.
Can I stop Optimmune if my dog's eyes look better?: No - KCS recurs without continued treatment. Lifelong use is the norm.

Related medications

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Combination steroid + antibiotic eye drops for inflammatory eye conditions with suspected bacterial involvement.

Topical gentamicin eye drops for bacterial conjunctivitis and ocular surface infections.

Track Optimmune Eye Ointment price drops

We'll email when Optimmune Eye Ointment drops in price at any of the pharmacies above.

Pricing data status: indicative. Last verified 2026-05-15. Pharmacies change prices regularly - always confirm before purchase. Not medical advice.