Glycerin
Glycerin is used in veterinary medicine for historical osmotic treatment of glaucoma.
Group
Osmotic agent
Mechanism of Action
Osmotic effects can lower intraocular pressure or soften stool, depending on administration.
Dose Rates
Dog
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Osmotic treatment | Reference only | PO | 1–2 mL/kg every 8 hours. The source does not tie this volume to a clear concentration; do not calculate a mass dose from the separate emulsion description. | |
| Acute glaucoma | 1–2 g/kg | PO | Do not use in: Anuria, Severe dehydration, Severe cardiac decompensation, Acute pulmonary edema; Use an appropriate oral glycerin solution; reassess intraocular pressure, hydration and urine output. |
Cat
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Osmotic treatment | Reference only | PO | 1–2 mL/kg every 8 hours. The source does not tie this volume to a clear concentration; do not calculate a mass dose from the separate emulsion description. | |
| Acute glaucoma | 1–2 g/kg | PO | Do not use in: Anuria, Severe dehydration, Severe cardiac decompensation, Acute pulmonary edema; Use an appropriate oral glycerin solution; reassess intraocular pressure, hydration and urine output. |
Indications
- Historical osmotic treatment of glaucoma
- Laxative use
Contraindications
- Dehydration
Adverse effects
- Fluid and electrolyte depletion
Preparations
| Preparation | Form | Strength | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Osmoglyn oral glycerin 0.6 g/mL The supplied source explicitly equates this 50% oral product to 0.6 g glycerin/mL; this is not a general conversion for every percentage-labelled glycerin solution. | Oral Liquid | 0.6 g / mL | PO |
Monitoring and Administration
Monitor intraocular pressure, hydration and electrolytes. Other agents are more commonly used for acute glaucoma.