Carbomer 980
Carbomer 980 is a synthetic, high-molecular-weight cross-linked linear polymer of acrylic acid used as an ophthalmic lubricant. It acts as a mucinomimetic, replacing the aqueous and mucin layers of the trilaminar tear film. **Clinical Pearl:** Carbomer gels are highly effective for managing Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS/dry eye) and providing essential corneal protection during general anesthesia or sedation when the palpebral reflex is diminished or lost.
Mechanism: **Carbomer 980** is a linear polymer (**polyacrylic acid**) that acts as a **mucinomimetic**. It adheres to the corneal surface and retains moisture → replaces the aqueous and mucin layers of the trilaminar tear film → stabilizes the tear film, reduces tear evaporation, and prolongs tear break-up time (TBUT).
Dosing by species
- Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) / Dry eye / Ocular lubrication · 1 drop (or small strip) per affected eye · topical · prn (typically q6h to q12h) · Ongoing · Frequency depends on the severity of the dry eye.
- Corneal protection during general anesthesia · 1 drop (or small strip) per eye · topical · Once after induction, repeat every 1-2 hours if procedure is prolonged · Duration of anesthesia · Prevents exposure keratitis.
- Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) / Dry eye / Ocular lubrication · 1 drop (or small strip) per affected eye · topical · prn (typically q6h to q12h) · Ongoing · Frequency depends on the severity of the dry eye.
- Corneal protection during general anesthesia · 1 drop (or small strip) per eye · topical · Once after induction, repeat every 1-2 hours if procedure is prolonged · Duration of anesthesia · Prevents exposure keratitis.
- Ocular lubrication / Anesthesia protection · 1 drop per eye · topical · prn · As needed · Useful for exophthalmic species (e.g., rabbits, guinea pigs) during anesthesia.
Doses are a clinical reference for licensed veterinary professionals. Always confirm against the current label and the individual patient.
Routes of administration
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to carbomer or any component of the formulation (e.g., preservatives like cetrimide or benzalkonium chloride)
Adverse effects
- Transient blurred vision immediately after application
- Mild, temporary ocular irritation or stinging
- Crusting or matting of the eyelashes/eyelids
Drug interactions
- Other topical ophthalmic medications · Carbomer gel can act as a physical barrier, reducing the absorption of other ophthalmic drops if applied simultaneously or prior to the drops. · moderate
Monitoring
- Schirmer Tear Test (STT) to monitor tear production in KCS patients
- Resolution of clinical signs (conjunctival hyperemia, mucoid discharge, blepharospasm)
- Fluorescein staining to monitor for corneal ulceration
Overdose
Overdosage is not a clinical concern due to the lack of systemic absorption. Excess gel will simply spill over the eyelid margins and can be gently wiped away with a damp tissue.
VetSheet drug reference is intended for licensed veterinary professionals as a clinical decision-support aid, not a substitute for professional judgement or the manufacturer’s current label.