Description
Generic Name: cyclosporine
Drug Class: calcineurin inhibitor immunosuppressant
Restasis Details
Restasis (generic: cyclosporine) is an ophthalmic emulsion used to increase tear production among patients with suppressed tear production caused by ocular inflammation associated with keratoconjunctivitis sicca. It is also used to manage eye symptoms caused by Sjogren’s syndrome. This is available in Restasis ophthalmic emulsion 0.5mg/mL.
What are The Uses of Restasis?
Before using Restasis, it is necessary to read the information leaflet or medication guide given by a healthcare professional. You must not take any medication unless you have understood all the information regarding it. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for further medical advice or additional details.
This solution should only be administered to the affected eye/s. Make sure to wash your hands before applying Restasis to avoid infections and contamination. To administer the eye drops, slightly tilt your head back, look up, and gently pull the lower eyelid. Then, hold the dropper directly above your eye and press the vial or bottle of the eye drop to release the solution. Once you are done, look down and close your eyes. Press the inner corner of the eye for one to two minutes to keep the solution from draining. Avoid rubbing your eyes.
Avoid missing your doses by creating a dosing schedule. This is usually prescribed twice daily, every 12 hours. If you are prescribed other ophthalmic drugs, make sure that there is at least 15 minutes interval, and eye drops should be administered first before eye ointments. Also, avoid using this drug more often than prescribed, for doing so will not improve your symptoms but will increase your adverse effects.
Have Side Effects of Restasis
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Eye burning
-Eye redness
– Having the sensation that something is in your eyes
-Temporary blurred vision
Severe Side Effects:
-Persistent stinging in the eye
-Eye pain
-Vision changes
-Unusual eye discharge
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Cyclosporine eye drops.
If you experience severe or persistent adverse reactions, discontinue medication and consult your doctor or any healthcare professional.
Restasis Warnings
Do not use this eye prescription drug if you have a known allergy to cyclosporine or any inactive ingredients the eye solution contains. Watch out for some signs of a severe allergic reaction, including difficulty breathing, swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, hives/itchiness, and skin rashes. Immediately discontinue this eye solution and call for medical help once this occurs.
Some disorders or conditions may significantly impact how you will respond to the therapy. Talk to your physician regarding your entire medical history, including recent or current eye infections and previous eye surgeries. Because of potential drug interactions, you must also discuss all supplements, herbal products, prescription medications, and nonprescription medications you are using.
You may experience temporary blurring of vision while using this drug. Do not use machinery, drive, or do any activities that need clear vision. You should also avoid alcohol as it may aggravate certain adverse effects.
Both pregnant and breastfeeding moms must use Restasis only if extremely needed. This is because it is still not known whether this solution may cause harmful effects to unborn and nursing babies.
Restasis Mechanism of Action
This eye medication is a topical immunomodulator with anti-inflammatory actions. Its exact mechanism is still unknown. However, it is thought to have immunosuppressive effects if administered systemically. It helps in decreasing the inflammation on the lacrimal gland and ocular surface.
Common Questions About Restasis
1. Is Restasis a steroid?
No, Restasis is not a steroid but could be used as a steroid-sparing agent.
2. What are some Restasis eye drops used?
This eye drop is used to treat chronic eye dryness.
3. Which is better, Xiidra vs Restasis?
Both eye medications are equally effective. However, the former is believed to work faster than the latter.
4. Does Restasis cause eye itching?
Yes, this medication may cause temporary eye itching.
5. Can I buy Restasis (cyclosporine) ophthalmic solution over the counter?
You must secure a valid prescription from your doctor to purchase this ophthalmic solution.
What is The Price of Restasis?
You may check the pricing of this product by clicking here.