Tacrolimus 104987-11-3 

Tacrolimus (CAS 104987-11-3) is a calcineurin inhibitor macrolide immunosuppressant with important applications in veterinary dermatology and ophthalmology. In companion animal practice, topical tacrolimus (0.02-0.1% ointment) is used for immune-mediated skin diseases in dogs and cats where systemic immunosuppression is undesirable or where corticosteroid therapy has proven inadequate.

Veterinary Dermatology Applications

Canine Atopic Dermatitis: Topical tacrolimus 0.1% ointment applied to affected areas twice daily provides localized immunomodulation without the cutaneous atrophy associated with prolonged topical corticosteroid use. It is particularly useful for facial, periocular, and inguinal lesions where skin thinning from steroids is a concern.

Canine Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS): Tacrolimus 0.02-0.03% ophthalmic solution is used as a second-line lacrimostimulant in dogs with KCS (dry eye) that have not responded adequately to ciclosporin ophthalmic preparations. Tacrolimus demonstrates superior tear production stimulation in some refractory cases.

Immune-Mediated Conditions: Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) of the nasal planum, perianal fistulae (anal furunculosis), and localized pemphigus foliaceus in dogs respond well to topical tacrolimus therapy.

Species-Specific Dosing

Dogs (topical dermatologic): 0.1% ointment applied to affected skin areas once to twice daily. Clinical improvement typically observed within 2-4 weeks. Long-term maintenance may use reduced frequency (every other day or twice weekly).

Dogs (ophthalmic): 0.02-0.03% aqueous solution, one drop per affected eye twice daily for KCS management.

Cats: Topical tacrolimus 0.1% used off-label for feline eosinophilic granuloma complex and allergic dermatitis. Systemic absorption from topical application is minimal in both species.

API Specifications