Why is this medication prescribed?

Cequa (cyclosporine ophthalmic solution) is prescribed for the treatment of dry eye disease, particularly for patients with keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye syndrome) that has not adequately responded to conventional therapies.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Cequa should typically be used:

• Dosage: The typical dosage is one drop of Cequa in each affected eye twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart.
• Administration: Follow these steps to administer Cequa:
  • Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the eye drops.
  • Tilt your head back and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
  • Hold the dropper directly over your eye and instill one drop into the pocket.
  • Close your eyes gently for 2-3 minutes without blinking or squinting to allow the medication to distribute evenly.
  • If you use other eye drops, wait at least 15 minutes before applying them after using Cequa.
• Contact Lenses: Cequa should not be administered while wearing contact lenses. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using Cequa and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
• Storage: Store Cequa at room temperature between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Avoid freezing.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, administer it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Duration: Use Cequa exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not discontinue the medication unless instructed by your healthcare provider.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding the use of Cequa. If you experience any discomfort or unexpected side effects while using Cequa, contact your doctor promptly for guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

• Corneal Graft Rejection: Cequa may be prescribed to prevent or treat corneal graft rejection in patients who have undergone corneal transplant surgery.
• Other Ocular Surface Disorders: In some cases, Cequa might be used off-label for other ocular surface disorders associated with inflammation.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Cequa, it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure safe and effective use:

• Allergic Reactions: If you have had an allergic reaction to cyclosporine or any other ingredients in Cequa, inform your doctor. Allergic reactions may include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Contact Lenses: Cequa should not be administered while wearing contact lenses. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using Cequa and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
• Eye Infections: Before starting treatment with Cequa, inform your doctor if you currently have or have a history of eye infections. Using Cequa with an active eye infection can potentially worsen the infection or delay healing.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Cequa during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. Consult your doctor before using Cequa if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Children: The safety and effectiveness of Cequa in pediatric patients have not been established. Its use in children should be under the guidance and supervision of a pediatric ophthalmologist.
• Other Medications: Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Certain medications may interact with Cequa, affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Adverse Effects: Monitor for any signs of adverse effects while using Cequa, such as eye pain, redness, blurred vision, or increased sensitivity to light. Report any unusual symptoms to your doctor promptly.
• Routine Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments with your eye doctor are important to monitor your response to Cequa and to evaluate any potential side effects.

By following these precautions and guidelines, you can maximize the benefits of Cequa while minimizing the risks associated with its use. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about using Cequa.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with the use of Cequa. However, maintaining a healthy diet and adequate hydration can support overall eye health and may complement the treatment of dry eye syndrome.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to use Cequa at the scheduled time, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Cequa (cyclosporine ophthalmic solution) can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects include:

• Eye Irritation: This may include burning or stinging sensation in the eyes shortly after using Cequa.
• Eye Discomfort: Some people may experience discomfort in the eyes, such as itching, redness, or feeling like something is in the eye.
• Blurred Vision: Cequa can sometimes cause temporary blurred vision after administration.
• Watery Eyes: Paradoxically, Cequa may cause excessive tearing or watery eyes as a side effect.
• Eyelid Redness: Redness or irritation of the eyelids can occur.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience mild headaches.

Less common but more serious side effects may include allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms after using Cequa, seek medical attention immediately.

It’s important to discuss any concerns or side effects with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on managing side effects or may adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Cequa:

• Storage:
  • Store Cequa at room temperature between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use to prevent contamination.
  • Do not freeze Cequa.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of Cequa according to local regulations or as instructed by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
  • Do not flush Cequa down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of accidental ingestion of Cequa or if you suspect an overdose, contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 (US) or emergency medical services immediately.

What other information should I know?

• Follow-Up Visits: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and evaluation of your response to Cequa.
• Do Not Share: Do not share Cequa with others, even if they have similar symptoms. It is prescribed specifically for your condition.
• Handling Precautions: Wash your hands thoroughly before and after administering Cequa to prevent contamination or infection.
• Contact Lens Use: Remove contact lenses before using Cequa. Wait at least 15 minutes after using Cequa before reinserting your contact lenses.
• Routine Eye Exams: Regular eye exams are important to monitor the progress of your dry eye condition and to check for any potential side effects from using Cequa.
• Patient Information Leaflet: Familiarize yourself with the patient information leaflet provided by your pharmacist, which contains important information about Cequa, including potential side effects and how to use it correctly.
• Travel: If you are traveling, ensure you have an adequate supply of Cequa with you. Store it in a cool, dry place and avoid exposure to extreme temperatures.
• Reporting Side Effects: If you experience any unexpected or severe side effects while using Cequa, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about Cequa, you can help ensure safe and effective treatment of your dry eye symptoms. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about using Cequa.