Demecarium
Risk Factor: C*
Class: AUTONOMICS
/ Parasympathomimetics (Cholinergics)
Contents of this page:
Fetal Risk Summary
Breast Feeding Summary
References
Questions and Answers
Fetal Risk Summary
Demecarium, a reversible, long-acting cholinesterase inhibitor, is used in the eye for the treatment of open-angle glaucoma. Apparently, no animal reproduction studies have been conducted with demecarium.
The manufacturer states that the drug is contraindicated in women who are or who may become pregnant because of the general toxicity of cholinesterase inhibitors (1). However, other agents with similar anticholinesterase activity have been used during human pregnancy without apparent complications (see Edrophonium, Neostigmine, and Physostigmine).
No reports of the use of demecarium in pregnancy have been located. As a quaternary ammonium compound, it is ionized at physiologic pH and transplacental passage in significant amounts would not be expected (see also Neostigmine).
[*Risk Factor X according to one manufacturer, Merck, 2000.]
Breast Feeding Summary
No reports describing the use of demecarium during lactation have been located. The manufacturer states that the drug should not be used during breast feeding because of the potential for severe adverse effects in a nursing infant (1).
References
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Product information. Humorsol. Merck, 2000.
Questions and Answers
Where to buy eye drops (Demecarium) for my dog?, My Jack Russell just had an eye operation and will need Demecarium 0.25% continuously to prevent Lens Luxation from happening to her good eye. The eye care specialist charges $50 per bottle (5 ml). Can I get it cheaper somewhere else? They told me I wouldn't be able to find it elsewhere.
Depending on where you live some human pharmacy also sell the same eyedrops you can get from your vet. This is b/c humans and pet sometimes share they same medications
But you will need the prescription. If you know the name call around and ask a few places if they have it and how much they charge.
