Restasis

Generic name: Cyclosporine

What is Restasis?

Restasis is a medicated eye drop that increases tear production. It is used to relieve the symptoms of dry eye syndrome, including burning, redness, dryness, grittiness, and the sensation of a foreign object stuck in the eye.

What is the most important information I should know about Restasis?

Restasis should not be used to treat eye dryness that is related to an infection.

Be sure to tell your doctor if you've ever had herpes in either eye. Restasis has not been studied in people who have a history of eye-related herpes infection.

Who should not take Restasis?

Do not use Restasis if you currently have an eye infection. Also avoid the drug if you've ever had an allergic reaction to it.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Restasis?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Restasis. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have eye-related herpes infection.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual dose is one drop in each affected eye twice a day, about 12 hours apart.

Children: The safety and effectiveness of Restasis have not been established in children below the age of 16.

How should I take Restasis?

Use Restasis solution only in the eyes; never swallow it. Turn each individual, single-use vial upside down a few times before use to mix the solution (it should look white with no streaks). After opening the vial, immediately insert the drops into one or both eyes, as directed by your doctor. Throw away each vial when you're done; the vials should only be used once, they are not meant for multiple uses.

If you wear contact lenses, wait at least 15 minutes after using Restasis before inserting your lenses. This will prevent your contacts from absorbing the medication. You may use lubricating eye drops or artificial tears during treatment with Restasis; however, wait 15 minutes after using one product before using another.

What should I avoid while taking Restasis?

To prevent contamination of the solution, do not touch the tip of the vial to any surface, to your eyelids, or to the surrounding area of the eye.

If you wear contact lenses, talk to your doctor before using Restasis. People with reduced tear production generally should not wear contact lenses.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Restasis?

No interactions with Restasis have been reported.

What are the possible side effects of Restasis?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: burning in the eye, discharge, pain, itching, redness, stinging, tearing, visual blurring

Can I receive Restasis if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Restasis during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Restasis?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose (within 6 hours), skip the dose you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

How should I store Restasis?

Store Restasis at room temperature.